Australasian Timber Magazine - February 2019 by Provincial Press Group

FEBruary 2019

MANUFACTURE • TECHNOLOGY • DESIGN • CONSTRUCTION

Incorporating Australian and New Zealand Timberman – Established 1977.

Growing a strong future for industry

Latest sawmill aCquisition Expanded 2019 event for Timber Offsite Construction

Innovation in timber engineering www.hundegger.com.au

WE’rE australian madE

Your machine, your plant, your expectations for support and service MET!

With Vekta support, your machine always comes first! Australian made machinery means Vekta can guarantee: • Support from qualified Mechatronic (Robotical) Engineers who have extensive hands-on training in our Perth manufacturing facility. They know everything about the Vekta Razer and equipment – from the location of each bolt and sensor to the software code. • A growing support network of engineers located in Perth, Melbourne, Auckland and the USA – providing around the clock support as needed. • Extensive inventory of spare parts in all support offices available for IMMEDIATE despatch. • Organised, transparent and efficient support issue tracking systems – log your issue and follow all updates in real time. • The information you need about your Vekta Razer; whenever you need it and at your fingertips, with our everexpanding, online help system, Vekta Rescue. • Ultimately; a company whose values and mindset ensure our customers’ individual needs and circumstances are thoughtfully considered and of the absolute highest priority.

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NEWS

Sawmill acquisition latest in diversified agribusiness portfolio

he AAM Investment Group (AAM) has acquired Allied Timber Products purpose-built softwood sawmill and business in Bathurst. AAM recently established the Sustainable Softwood Trust (SST) for the acquisition of the green mill and dry mill. The facility processes approximately 92,000m3 of raw material per annum. About 50% of logs are cut into finished product and the balance of the materials (sawdust, shavings and offcuts) are sold and reused in alternative products such as chipboard.

Manufactured timber products are considered to be a highly effective and efficient method of carbon capture and long-term storage providing a positive impact on greenhouse gas reduction, with two thirds of Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions being captured in timber products. Carbon is absorbed by trees and stored in the timber for long after the timber is harvested, staying permanently in many of our homes and surrounding built environment. The combination of the sustainable man-

agement of Australian forests and the carbon storing characteristics of manufactured wood products, is equivalent to taking more than 230,000 cars off the road annually. The acquisition is Series 3 of AAM’s diversified, uncorrelated and unlisted investment offerings currently valued at $160 million. AAM’s target is to acquire and develop a portfolio of up to $500 million of diversified agribusiness assets over five years that incorporates assets with uncorrelated income streams where Inves-

tors benefit from cash returns derived from the operational businesses managed by AAM and capital growth over multiple asset classes. “AAM will continue to source high quality assets where value can be created through active management and investing capital to promote improved operational efficiencies and sustainable growth,” said AAM Managing Director, Garry Edwards. “Renewable regrowth timber products are an efficient method of long term carbon capture and storage, production of these products provides

positive environmental outcomes, with two thirds of Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions being captured in timber products, as well as high quality, cost effective, Australian produced, building and fencing products”, said Garry Edwards. “AAM will continue to invest in sustainability outcomes through investment in additional onsite renewable energy infrastructure”. In 2019 AAM will release Series 4 and 5 of its unlisted investment offerings for wholesale sophisticated investors. Offerings will involve

further investments in high quality protein production and further portfolio diversification through uncorrelated opportunities. AAM not only offers diversification in their portfolio of investment offerings but provides investors with the opportunity to diversify their own investment portfolios. This latest acquisition by AAM succeeds the purchase of the Riverlands Free Range Poultry Assets located in South Australia, and Legune Station, a 178,870 ha cattle property in the Northern Territory.

Here to help you achieve your goals. Thode Knife & Saw has been in operation since 1946 supplying saws and knives to a wide variety of industries throughout New Zealand and Australia. We have built up a formidable knowledge base over this time and have consultants that are qualified sawdoctors and machinists with years of experience. Our consultants can help with sawshop or machine room upgrades and saw, knife, tool and machinery requirements to increase your efficiency and quality. Thode operates in New Zealand, Australia, the Pacific Islands, Canada and is the leading business of this type in Australasia. The management and staff at Thode are understandably proud of the level of service and backup that they can offer to their customers. A serious investment program in new machinery sees Thode having the latest “state of the art” CNC manufacturing capability. This allows Thode to offer unsurpassed levels of accuracy and consistency when manufacturing saws. The company has many top agencies for machinery, tooling and consumables including Iseli, MVM, Kanefusa and others, covering all your BNP 110 AU $149'069. Plus GST KHB 110 AU $167'429. plus GST consumable requirements. Machines in stock available for immediate delivery. Thode Knife & Saw Pty Ltd. 6-8 Hunter Road, Healesville, Victoria 3777 Australia.

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Phone Aaron or Rose on PH: 03 5962 1311

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER February 2019

Web: www.hundegger.com.au

NEWS Innovation in timber engineering

Expanded 2019 event for Timber Offsite Construction

HU_AZ_Australia-Asia_210x297mm_RZ_070518.indd 1

ffsite manufacture of timber frame and mass wood buildings for residential and commercial buildings is growing rapidly around the world, with smarter technologies to improve productivity and speed of construction. This trend is also under way around Australia with increasing numbers of construction projects being built utilising timber and mass wood systems. The ‘Timber Offsite Construction’ conference and exhibition organised by Frame Australia is at the forefront of a worldwide transformation to modernise construction with solutions that are faster and lower cost to build. Announcing next year’s event, Conference Director Kevin Ezard said: “Now entering its 21st year the 2019 event will be bigger and better with a new and larger venue for an expanded two-day sessions program. “The sessions will feature prominent local and global experts with topics exclusively devoted to timber and mass wood building construction,

and will be the only event for delegates to find out what’s really happening in this space. “Market growth is also encouraging a vast array of new technologies, new building products and services to meet the design and construction sector’s evolving needs; along with timber and mass wood manufacturing and the building materials supply chain.” In Australia, the building industry has been slow to move in that direction, however, increasing shortages of skilled labour has now become a key driver for greater adoption, with new timber and mass wood offsite prefabrication facilities emerging to meet the growing demand. In USA the growth trend to prefabricated housing in the past year has been spectacular, with recent moves to mass production of buildings by a number of very large corporations. These include Sidewalk Labs, an Alphabet (Google) company with new construction methods and flexible building designs enabling radical mixed-use, walkable neighbourhoods that reduce the cost of housing. Another example of this new approach includes Katerra, a USbased technology com-

australasian

Incorporating Australian and New Zealand Timberman – Established 1977.

February 2019, Vol. 27, Issue 1 Established 1977

pany on a mission to change by optimizing every aspect of building design, materials supply, and construction. Craig Curtis the President of Katerra Architecture said: “The benefits of off-site manufacturing are many -- less waste, greater precision, safer work, fewer delays. “But the greatest result stems from the decision-making shifted towards the front end of a project. By locking in the details necessary for manufacturing, we can significantly reduce risk to project schedules and budgets. “This approach represents a wholesale shift of mindset from one-off projects to repeatable products, for mass production of componentised buildings.” With this global shift under way, the Frame 2019 event will offer suppliers the opportunity to access expanding building construction markets by participation with an exhibition display booth. Delegate surveys have confirmed the exhibition display is a very important component in delegates establishing contacts through face to face exchange; providing an unparalleled opportunity for networking. And a significant bonus for 2019 is larger

Publisher and Chief Executive: Hartley Higgins General Manager: John Turner Editorial: John Hudswell j.hudswell@ryanmediapl.com.au Adelaide: (08) 8369 9512 Out of office: (08) 7127 6370

booth sizes at no extra cost, with booths two to three times the previous floor area and no change in pricing from 2018. Frame 2019 titled ‘Timber Offsite Construction’ will be held on Monday and Tuesday 1718 June at Crown Promenade Melbourne, and for details visit the website www.frameaustralia. com

Advertising: Kent Humphrys k.humphrys@ryanmediapl.com.au Adelaide: (08) 8369 9516 Timber Classifieds: k.humphrys@ryanmediapl.com.au Adelaide: (08) 8369 9516 Design and Artwork: Peter Frezzini with the NEM Creative team

■■ Craig Curtis

■■ Kevin Ezard

Subscriptions: subs@forestsandtimber.com.au Adelaide: (08) 8369 9522 Accounts: Adelaide: (08) 8369 9555 Postal Address: 630 Regency Road, Broadview, South Australia 5083 Phone: (08) 8369 9555 Fax: (08) 8369 9501

FRONT PAGE: It was clear to architect Hal Guida that timber would play a role in the construction of the country’s new Parliament House and what a result! Read more on this iconic structure and the people behind its success on pages 26-30

Conditions: The opinions expressed in Australasian Timber Magazine are not necessarily the opinions of or endorsed by the editor or publisher unless otherwise stated. All articles submitted for publication become the property of the publisher. All material in Australasian Timber Magazine copyright © Ryan Media. All rights reserved. No part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic, or mechanical including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, the published will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions, or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published.

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER February 2019

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TURN TO THE TURBO-DRIVE

CUT. STACK. PRINT. MILL

HUNDEGGER TURBO-DRIVE “CUT” 07.05.18 13:32 The Hundegger TURBO-Drive has enjoyed tremendous success in the region since its local launch a little over 18 months

ago. Its super-fast operation, flexibility, small footprint and user-friendly interface has made it the machine of choice for serious frame and truss operations. Many of the Hundegger TURBO-Drive machines are running multiple shifts and cutting stacked components, situated in operations where it is the second, third or fourth machine in operation. However, we now have a revised specification that allows smaller or newer operations to enjoy all the benefits of a Hundegger CNC saw – without compromise. The Hundegger TURBO-Drive CUT!

The Hundegger TURBO-Drive CUT – for under $300,000

The TURBO Drive Cut is supplied with an automated infeed and outfeed, 5-axis servo-controlled saw unit, waste conveyors, printing, security fence, powerful motors, centralised lubrication, production monitor, short piece handling, full software and Truss UI touch-screen, and includes delivery, installation, training and even a spare saw-blade! Other packages available stand-alone or combined include: Hundegger TURBO-Drive “STACK”

All the above features, plus increased stacking capability and material handling for even greater productivity gains Hundegger TURBO-Drive “PRINT”

All the above features, plus extended printing capability Text, part numbers, job ID, etc Hundegger TURBO-Drive “MILL” All the above features, plus tool carrier, soft starter for infeed system, and powerful 7.5kW vertical milling head and dedicated double mitre tool Hundegger TURBO-Drive “PLUS” All the above features, plus driven outfeed chains for faster and more automated operation Whatever your requirements, the Hundegger TURBO-Drive has a package to suit, all with localised Technical Support. All machines can be upgraded at a later date to ensure your investment returns full value. For detailed speciﬁcations, contact Sam Rowe on +61 418 561 023 sam.rowe@hundeger.com.au

NEWS

■■ Left to Right: Ron Caddy (Lamcal Building Supplies); Hugh Turner (Smartwood); Josh Frydenberg (Treasurer of Australia); Peter Alexander (Peuker & Alexander and Jos de Bruin CEO MGA TMA)

MGA TMA - Timber Merchants Australia continue their vigilance By Ann Sanfey Membership Manager

t has been some very exciting and rapid moving 18 months from when Timber Merchants Association (Victoria) officially joined forces with MGA to form MGA TMA Timber Merchants Australia. The purpose of the coming together was to strengthen and grow Timber merchants’ membership nationally but importantly assist independent timber business owners with vital

‘back of house’ services and industry advocacy. In a very short period MGA TMA have achieved significant progress in creating a longterm opportunity comprising of independent family enterprises with a broad offering for members both now and in the future. A louder voice …. An imperative strategy for MGA TMA is to facilitate and develop recognition across the industry, prioritising advocacy and industry representation both State and Federal, involvement and support is already earmarked. MGA TMA management committee made up of eight indi-

Serving independent timber and

vidual timber business representatives whose mandate is to uphold and grow “timber merchants”, and foster industry harmony based on culture and environment. During 2018 members from every state reported that the cost of doing business and competitive market challenges continue to increase at an unprecedented rate whilst margins are shrinking. Rising costs such as electricity, wage rates and regulatory compliance have put enormous pressure on MGA TMA members and families to run their businesses viably. Electricity prices

continue to be problematic, Increased penalty rates and overtime rates for casuals will cause members to revise their rosters and reduce hours. Increasing petrol prices has reduced consumers, particularly families, spending power having a dramatic effect on sales and finance costs are rising. In October last year, MGA’s Board embarked upon its annual visit to Parliament House Canberra to engage with Ministers, Shadow Ministers, Senators, Members of Parliament and regulators. The message to our Members of Parliament was very clear - the day in the life of

Legal and HR

an independent business is becoming more and more challenging with the cost to do business increasing, new regulations being introduced and the integrity of current regulations such as planning laws being comprised, by State governments pandering to big business. MGA TMA members want certainty to go about their daily business, they want the confidence and the ability to invest in their businesses; to innovate and to compete in a market dominated by big businesses with very deep pockets. This message was successfully delivered. We will continue

our vigilance in 2019 and to do the best we can to enhance the wellbeing of our members businesses in pushing for more acceptable policies. ++ For further information or membership enquiries – contact ANN SANFEY – National Membership Manager MGA TMA Timber Merchants Australia – 1800 888 479 or M# 0411 886 716 E: ann. sanfey@mga.asn.au www.mgatma.com.au MGA TMA management committee mandate is to uphold and grow “timber merchants”, and to foster industry harmony based on culture and environment.

Timber Advisory Service

hardware businesses by providing valuable back of house services...

National Support Centre 1800 888 479 (Option 1) www.mgatma.com.au

Training

Member Benefits

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER February 2019

Advocacy

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NEWS

Exhaustive process Want to learn to develop high more and advance? quality training packages

raft qualifications and units of competency available for feedback have been developed in consultation with a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC), made up of industry experts, on the following Forest and Wood Products Training Package projects:. Advances in Woodmachining and Sawdoctoring Project Sawmill Timber and Process Optimisation Project Feedback is sought on whether these documents reflect current and emerging job roles in the industry, industry skill requirements and work practices and whether all job functions are accurately described. The draft documents will be available on the project webpage until 15 February 2019. This response from the broad industry will inform the final drafts which will be available for industry validation in March 2019. Project Summary Advances in Wood Machining and Sawdoctoring Two revised qualifications, 10 new units of competency and 41 revised units of competency are available for industry review and feedback. Sixteen units of competency (9 within the project scope and 7 outside the project scope) are proposed to

be removed from the two revised qualifications. The existing qualifications, FWP30716 Certificate III in Sawdoctoring and FWP30816 Certificate III in Woodmachining, have been the subject of a major review. Improvements include a new title for one qualification, new units of competency added to the qualifications, units of competency removed from the qualifications, units of competency imported from other Training Packages and revised units of competency. Four new units of competency have been developed to support processes and advanced technology for levelling and tensioning sawblades and the efficient operation of production sawing machines in sawmills. Six new units of competency have been also developed in conjunction with the sawmill timber and process optimisation project. The existing units of competency have been revised to meet industry skill needs and comply with the Standards for Training Packages. Four units of competency are proposed for being listed on FWP20316 Certificate II in Sawmilling and Processing to broaden accessibility for a school based pre-apprenticeship program for Wood Machinists and Saw Technicians.

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Eight units of competency including relevant prerequisites from the MEM Manufacturing and Engineering Training Package are proposed for being listed on the FWP40216 Certificate IV in Timber Processing to offer a career pathway to Saw Technicians (previously Saw Doctors) through high-level skills in troubleshooting hydraulic and pneumatic systems. Project Summary - Sawmill Timber and Process Optimisation Six new units of competency and 11 revised units are available for industry review and feedback. The new units of competency have been developed to support production efficiencies in sawmills, particularly in relation to maximising the overall volume and value of timber recovery. The existing units of competency relate to the main stages of sawmill production processes and have been revised to meet industry skill needs and comply with the Standards for Training Packages. One unit, FWPSAW3226 Saw logs using CNC optimising systems, is proposed for deletion due to lack of clarity in the Application statement, Performance Criteria and Assessment description. The unit has had no enrolments over the last five years.

Timber is one of the world’s most important renewable construction materials and Australia remains a leader in the field. Timber durability is an important aspect of performance, particularly with Australia’s climate extremes and voracious termites. The National Centre for Timber Durability and Design Life was established to revitalize durability research in the country. Increased demand for timber in all aspects of the building industry will create a critical need for highly skilled people who understand wood properties and durability. A central goal of the Centre is to meet that need by recruiting highly qualified students interested in pursuing advanced degrees in timber durability.

The Centre has support for several students interested in pursuing full time study as well as opportunities for those already employed to embellish their skills through part time study. Research topics are open but could include: Improved treatment technologies Enhancing durability Performance of modified timbers Properties of under-utilized species Effects of fungal decay on timber properties Interactions between moisture and fungi Moisture effects on composite behavior Interested in moving forward and helping Australians use their timber more wisely? Contact Jeff Morrell at jmorrell@usc.edu.au for more information.

Dr Semple joins National Centre for Timber Durability and Design Life Dr Kate Semple has joined the National Centre for Timber Durability and Design Life as a Post-Doctoral Research Associate. Kate, originally from Canberra, has a BSc in Forestry from the Australian National University, an MSc from Melbourne Uni and a PhD. from ANU. She has an extensive background in wood science and forest products processing ranging from drying and preservative treatment to composite products including plywood, particleboard, Oriented Strand Board, and laminated mass timber (CLT). Immediately following her PhD in 2003 Kate joined the University of British Columbia (Vancouver, B.C.) as a Post Doc and then as a Research Associate and finally Research Scientist

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER February 2019

in the Wood Science Department (Composites). She subsequently joined FPInnovations (Canada’s National Laboratory for Forest Products) in Vancouver as a Research Scientist from 2015 to 2018. While there, she worked on various composite projects including log yard management for plywood production and gluing fire-retardant treated laminated mass timber. Kate will be based at the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries EcoSciences Precinct facility in Brisbane. Her first efforts will be to help initiate a largescale field trial that will feed data into the service life prediction models developed by retired CSIRO research Dr. Robert Leicester. Kate will be living in Brisbane and outside of work will

pursue her interests in music for social dancing. Industry, academia and government partnered to create the National Centre for Timber Durability and Design Life – a new group designed to put Australia at the forefront of international best practice. A strategic initiative of industry group Forest & Wood Products Australia (FWPA), the Centre will ensure Australian design guides and standards remain world class in light of climate change, new engineered timbers and changes in building design. The Centre is also still recruiting students to pursue advanced degrees, either full time or part time as they continue to work. For further details. Contact Jeff Morrell at jmorrell@ usc.edu.au.

NEWS

Growing a strong future for the forest and wood products industry Exciting 2018 and industry promises more this year

’m proud to say it was an exciting 2018 for both Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA) and the broader Australian timber industry. Successes included the continued strong housing starts, increased market share of timber in commercial construction, and the growing acceptance of the environmental benefits of timber. Everyone in the FWPA team, our members, industry and government partners, as well as community relationships all played a role in what was truly a great year. At the start of a new year, it’s worthwhile to share some highlights of FWPA’s work over the past 12 months and how we’ve been working to serve the industry. Our data aggregation program continued to provide valuable knowledge to the industry. It’s been rewarding to see the significant uptake in organisations wanting to be involved. There are now 76 participating organisations contributing to 21 different data series. We’re really looking forward to the continued growth of this program in 2019. Collecting, and more importantly using, 8

this kind of data supports smart decision making – and we’ll see more and more of this in the immediate future.

Inspiring commitment Research has been another exciting area of focus and achievement, thanks to the ongoing financial support made available through initiatives such as voluntary matching. We’ve worked closely with some of the leading researchers in Australia, who have been inspiring in their commitment to developing innovative technologies that benefit both the industry and wider community. It’s a real pleasure and privilege to be working alongside them. Just a couple of great examples of the research we’ve supported in 2018 include: Technology that tests the DNA of seedlings to enhance predictive capacity and ensure the highest quality of yield in future decades. The development of Resi-eCambium software, which offers a rapid and cost-effective way of assessing wood quality in plantations. By embracing new and disruptive technologies, we can provide the tools and methods to support increased productivity. Personally, I’m keen to see the results of these

technologies in action throughout 2019 and beyond. We also continued to educate the industry and change perceptions of timber more generally. I have summarised some of our extensive activity below: Our WoodSolutions website retained its position as the number one website in the world for anyone looking for information about timber. The development of our industry’s current and future leaders has continued through our pilot industry leadership program For Our Future, with 28 emerging leaders graduating in 2018. The new Centre for Timber Durability and Design Life at the Uni-

versity of the Sunshine Coast has continued to evolve. We were delighted to welcome distinguished international expert Professor Jeff Morrell as Director, and an expert industry steering committee has been established. Our free online learning program WoodSolutions Campus has continued to grow, with almost 300 enrolments last year! It’s a platform that we anticipate will go from strength-to-strength as demand for timber in construction continues to increase. The school-based ForestLearning program has also expanded, with more than 18,000 users. It’s great to know that so many people in the

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER February 2019

younger generation will grow up with knowledge of forestry and timber! On another positive note, the change to the National Construction Code in 2016 has continued to accelerate the adoption of timber in commercial building projects.

Extraordinary work on the “rise” The work of our midrise advisory team has been extraordinary. They have contributed to 21 substantial building projects using timber as the main material. Even more promising is the news that an additional 262 projects have expressed an interest in making the switch to wood in the future! We anticipate

converting many of these during 2019. What’s more, there are further proposed changes to the National Construction Code which, if approved, will allow all classes of building using timber to be up to 25 metres in height. This will provide even more possibilities for the industry as we move into 2019 and beyond. Our strong relationship with Planet Ark has continued to create valuable and rewarding outcomes. With their assistance, we promoted Wood Encouragement Policies (WEPs) with government and council officials in 2018 with incredible results. Now, 18 government bodies have adopted a WEP and many more are

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NEWS 20th Australian Timber Design Awards Entries open 11 February Entries close 28 June Judging period July People’s Choice Voting August to September Presentation dinner Melbourne mid-October

■■ Eileen Newbury, FWPA Marketing and Communications Manager, has given Australasian Timber a special insight into the events that helped shape the industry in 2018, and also what may be the deciding influences in the year to come.

being targeted for 2019. We hope to see others follow Tasmania’s lead in adopting a WEP at a state government level. Watch this space for more states considering making this commitment in the future!

Influencing perceptions Planet Ark were also integral supporters when it came to influencing perceptions about the benefits of wood. FWPA’s consumer advertising campaign with Planet Ark and the MakeItWood brand achieved excellent results. The advertisements with award-winning architect Peter Maddison, host of Grand Designs Australia, demonstrated the wellbeing and pro-

ductivity benefits of wood in the workplace, as well as the advantages of other uses of timber, including residential framing and wood in the home. Post-consumer research showed the commercials really resonated with the public, with the vast majority (89%) stating they recalled seeing the ads on TV and 64% stating they’d be likely to use wood as a result of the ads. The wellbeing benefits of wood is a message we consistently highlight. FWPA funded some hugely interesting, world-first research into biophilia – the principle that exposure to nature increases human wellbeing. The study was based on a survey of 1,000

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Australian indoor workers and found the more natural-looking wooden surfaces workers could see from their workstation, the higher their workplace satisfaction and wellbeing. A really positive aspect of this research is the strong business case it provides for including more wood in offices and other indoor work spaces. While we did lots of work to promote this throughout 2018, over the next year we have further plans to educate not only government bodies and the construction industry, but also business owners and the general public on these findings. Other exciting findings we discovered in 2018 were the increas-

ingly positive public sentiments around wood, thanks to consumer research we conducted. Some of the key takeaways are: ‘Love of wood’ amongst the public increased from 79% to 85%. The proportion of people who claim they would ‘always’ or would ‘be likely’ to choose wood over other materials in the built environment increased from 57% to 62%. We believe this upward trajectory, alongside our various education programs, will result in lots of positive outcomes when it comes to increased demand for timber in the future. As the research capac-

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER February 2019

ity in Australia continues to diminish, supporting research across all areas will become increasingly vital. Building on our previous successes with researchers, the support we offer will continue to be a major area of focus over the coming twelve months. Related to this work, one prediction for the future is that more and more emerging technologies will be embraced. Innovative technology presents exciting potential to significantly increase efficiencies for the industry. One interesting example is the use of drones or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in forest management – and FWPA is already funding various research projects in this area. Amongst its many advantages, the technology presents opportunities to detect animal habitats, support fire management and reduce the need for peoplepower on the ground, impacting factors such

as OH&S, particularly in remote areas. As we look forward to a new year, we remain committed to serving the industry in many different ways. It’s a very exciting time to be part of the forest and wood products sector in 2019! FWPA will continue to build the systems and platforms needed to achieve our mission of: Growing the market for forest and wood products; Increasing productivity and profitability across the value chain; and Ensuring positive environmental and social outcomes. As acceptance and demand for timber continues to increase, the potential of the forest and wood industry is limitless – in Australia and globally. The FWPA team looks forward to working with you all to create new and exciting opportunities to improve our industry and benefit the community. Here’s to what the future holds! 9

NEWS

Queensland importer fined for breaching illegal logging laws

Timely reminder about new obligations

Briefs Concrete evidence that wood is good The U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities (Endowment) and its national partners the USDA Forest Service, Oregon State University and Purdue University have been studying a product that can enhance the performance of concrete through the addition of cellulosic nanomaterials (CN) produced from wood. The team is conducting three field applications around the nation.

Investing in a better future Stora Enso will invest $22 million at Skoghall Mill in Sweden in an expansion of the existing water treatment plant. Increased capacity and new, modern technology will enhance the water treatment process at the mill. . By expanding the plant, the separation of sludge is improved, which in turn improves the quality of the water that is returned to the near-by Lake Vänern. The sludge can also be used as biofuel.

Legal status of flooring patents to be monitored by new Chinese ‘Alliance’ The Intellectual Property Protection Department of China’s State Intellectual Property Office has approved the creation of a Wood Flooring Panel Lock Patent Protection Alliance by the China Forest Products Industry Association (CFPIA). Wu Shengfu, Vice President of the CFPIA and the Chairman of the Alliance, said the focus will be on combing floor lock patents for their legal status and technical merit as well as reviewing domestic and international patent applications

Timber train A block train loaded with 41 containers in Kouvula/Finland, Metsä Fibre has delivered 1800m3 of softwood sawn timber to the north western Chinese city of Xi’an, the capital of the Shaaxi. It was the first time Metsa had used the land route to China to export sawn timber. The train ran from Finland through Russia and Kazakhstan to China. One year earlier, Finnish company Versowood Oy had despatched the first block train with sawn softwood to China. The block train, which also comprised 41 containers, was sent to Nankang/Province Jiangxi.

Queenslandbased importer has been fined $12,600 for ongoing non-compliance with Australia’s illegal logging laws, becoming the first company to be penalised under the legislation. The penalty has been described as a timely reminder to importers and processors about their obligations under Australia’s illegal logging laws. “The company had been directed to provide information on its due diligence for sourcing timber, and failed to comply. My department issues directions for a reason and they must be complied with,” said Senator Richard Colbeck (Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources). Senator Colbeck said the Government had worked very closely with industry during the implementation of the laws including a period of soft commencement to make sure business had the opportunity to ensure their systems were adequate to demonstrate compliance. “Illegal logging has significant global economic, environmental, and social impacts and undercuts our legal and legitimate timber producers here in Australia,” he said. Estimates of the

■■ Senator Richard Colbeck.

global cost of illegal logging are between $71 billion and $212 billion each year. “Under Australia’s illegal logging laws, any business or individual that fails to effectively undertake due diligence to assess and manage the risk that the wood or paper in their imported products is from illegally harvested timber can face significant financial penalties. “Now, we have our first prosecution for a failure to comply with this requirement. “Thanks to our strong regulatory framework, Australians can be confident that the timber we produce locally comes from reputable and sustainable sources, and every effort is being made to ensure the timber we import has been legally harvested. “This year my department will continue to undertake audits

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER February 2019

to assess compliance with the illegal logging laws, to help ensure that illegally logged imported timber does not enter the Australian market. “We will continue to support businesses and individuals in understanding their responsibilities under the illegal logging laws, but there will be consequences for those not complying with their legal obligations.” According to a spokesperson for the Agriculture Department, the Queensland based company was required to provide information to the department within a 28 day time period on its due diligence process for sourcing timber, and failed to comply. “The company is not new to the industry and had been warned that failure to attend to the directions may result in the issuing of an infringement notice. “The department issued an infringement notice to the company for a contravention of section 15 of the Illegal Logging Prohibition Regulation 2012. This section is a civil penalty provision, with a maximum penalty of 100 penalty units. For this provision, the department may issue an infringement notice for the following amounts: for a body corpo-

rate 60 penalty units $12,600 for an individual 12 penalty units - $2,520 “If an infringement notice is not paid and any subsequent civil penalty proceedings are successful, a court can impose the following maximum penalties: for a body corporate 500 penalty units $105,000 for an individual 100 penalty units - $21,000 “Penalties relate to individual breaches of the relevant provision. When determining what type of enforcement intervention is warranted for repeat offenders, past noncompliance may be taken into account. The company has only been issued with an infringement notice, and has not been prosecuted. “As the matter is ongoing we are unable to comment further at this time,” the spokesperson said. A review of the first five years of the operation of Australia’s Illegal logging Prohibition Act 2012 has recently been completed and is available at agriculture. gov.au/illegal-logging The findings, including opportunities to improve the operation of the Act are currently being considered. For information on the illegal logging laws visit: agriculture.gov.au/ illegal-logging

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Australian made with the quality and service you know.

AKD Softwoods. Reliable and sustainable...naturally

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NEWS

Customer service: Expectations versus reality Service is about always being in solution mode

oday, technology is in all parts of our everyday world. For better or worse, this also means customer service and technical support are embedded into our lives. Some companies excel, others are just frustrating- you’re put on hold or constantly transferred; the telecom industry is notorious for this. Everyone has experienced the technician who didn’t show or has turned up late and has no idea what they are doing. A repercussion of the advancement of automated machinery in the Frame and Truss industry is the need for customer support and technical service. No matter the supplier you choose, it is inevitable there will come a time when you need help! So, what defines ‘good’ customer service for a CNC machine in the Frame and Truss industry? How would you describe ‘good’ technical support? Are expectations too high, too low? What exactly should you expect? Paul Donnell, the Production Manager from Bunnings Hallam, clearly defines the industrywide expectation. “We expect as little

downtime as possible as when the saw stops, the whole floor stops.” To achieve this outcome, he believes it is particularly important to “Talk through issues over the phone and have a local tech”. Alistair Green from AAA agreed – “Response times are very important”. Bradley Thomas, Production Manager at Direct Timber and Trusses, emphasises the importance of the relationship between customer and service technicians ... “We appreciate any suggested solutions like online help options or anything else we can do until (a technician) is online... A considered and calm approach, gives confidence that it will be sorted. You don’t want to hear someone panicking on the other side of the line. … We expect honesty, tell us when someone will be able to contact us back. Also training staff, little tips along the way. It is one of those things; we hope to never call you

but when we do, we need to get solutions.” Kirt Dobin from the Truss Joint focused on the knowledge of the technicians providing the support. “Having knowledgeable techs, all of the guys knowing the product inside out. Quick response times

vise how we do things and provide feedback/ input on further improving how we operate/use saw.” Bradley Thomas from Direct Timber shared this perspective … “Service is about always being in solution mode.” Mark Pagram from

and when one of the techs doesn’t know the answer, they discuss in a group and come back to us quickly.” He also highlights the importance of having a good relationship with the supplying company. “When (technicians) are here they give advice on how we can be doing things better/utilising the saw better. This is the reason we actually want someone to super-

JH Williams in Murwillumbah, NSW, has similar opinions regarding communication and experience. “Technicians should be an expert on the machinery they are supporting. They should also be polite, accommodating and a good communicator.” He further commented, “Good customer service is prompt, appropriately priced and backed up with a full

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER February 2019

understanding and explanation of what’s actually being offered. It is important to have accessibility to expert advice, prompt dispatching of spares and consumables and ensuring that existing customers are not “prioritised” below new or prospective customers. It can even be as simple as actively informing customers of new products or how they can use existing products better.” When Vekta started in 2009 we recognised the lack of adequate customer service and support standards in our industry and decided to focus on putting the customer first. By seeking constant feedback from our customers, and focusing on continuous improvements over the years in this area, Vekta has become a leader not only in the quality and performance of our products, but more importantly, in the service and support we provide our customers. So, what defines good customer service and support for automated equipment?

Vekta’s approach starts with highly trained, qualified Mechatronic (Robotical) Engineers providing the support. Support engineers located in Perth, Melbourne, Auckland and in the USA. An extensive inventory of spare parts in all support offices available for immediate despatch. Access to support engineers in time zones around the world that can provide virtually around the clock support as needed. An organised, transparent and efficient support issue tracking systems. Solid internal communication between support Engineers to facilitate a broad knowledge base. And, ultimately, a company that has the values and mindset to ensure the customers individual needs and circumstances are thoughtfully considered and the highest priority. Suppliers to the Frame and Truss industry should excel at customer service -- the industry should not accept anything less. Why not discover for yourself the benefits and reassurances of strong support - Make Vekta your first point of comparison; we are confident in the support and service we provide!

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NEWS

$190m hardwood CLT plant still on track Destined to re-invent standard plantation and milling practices

he Hermal Group continues to tick all the boxes in its bid to build a new multi-million-dollar facility, as part of its $190 milliondollar investment in Tasmania’s plantation-based hardwood timber products. Currently, the group’s Development Application us being processed, then the final step is approval by the Burnie Council. “We are looking forward to working through the DA approval process and this will be the critical determinant of the timeline for construction and inevitably the opening of the mill,” said James Lantry, Senior Manager Special Projects, The Hermal Group. The facility, to be established on an 80 hectare site in Hampshire, will, according to Mr Lantry, completely re-invent standard plantation and milling practices. Hardwood timbers and their use as a renewable building product is increasingly viewed as a preferred option. At full capacity the mill will process in excess of 300,000 cubic meters of plantation hardwood per year, and waste produced will be

converted into direct injection bio fuel, for dispatchable renewable electricity generation.

Vibrant and viable “There is an opportunity to create a new, vibrant and viable hardwood plantation-based, high value industry in

cept of ‘PLANTATION to PROJECT’.” E.Nitens is a predominant plantation species in Tasmania due to it being able to attain a higher fibre content in a short period of time. I t is a fast growing species. Currently there is a substantial amount of hold-

“This is a big win for the North West, and is more evidence of the growing confidence, investment and jobs in the industry on the back of the strong forestry policies of the Hodgman Liberal Government.” – Guy Barnett (Minister for Primary Industries and Water). Tasmania which is why we are building this new facility,” Mr Lantry said. “This new forestry industry will provide hardwood manufactured products into new areas of the market --- manufacturing an appropriate range of Cross Laminated Timber Panels (CLTP) (Registered) products which can be transported and utilised in new projects, providing an amazing new con-

ings across the state of 15 to 25 year old plantation timbers. The largest holder of this resource is Forico with a substantial number of smaller area holdings. We have initially focused around E.Nitens, however, E. globulus would also be a suitable plantation hardwood species. “Plantation E.nitens, or shining gum, is a beautiful timber and we

can’t wait to get our planation kiln dried CLTP products into the market,” Mr Lantry added.

Economics-driven Movement to plantation timbers is being driven by the economics of products and diminishing supply of tradi-

sure that the best cut of the timber is attained. “We have identified two European machinery options both of which allow for single pass sawing of the material. Single pass sawing provides sawn timber for the cross-laminating process.”

■■ From left: Brett Whiteley (Liberal candidate for Braddon), James Lantry (Hermal Group), Guy Barnett, and Alwyn Boyd (Burnie City Council).

tional regrowth and old growth supplies. Mr Lantry stressed that the CLTP Burnie facility would source only FSC plantation hardwood timber. The whole process will be state-of-the-art with input logs ultrasonically tested on landing at the facility and track tagged to enable computerised sawing specifications. The use of the tagging process will en-

Mr Lantry said the kiln drying process would see the single pass sawn material moved from the green mill directly to the kilns after a short resting period. Following the drying process the timber will then be placed into the laminated production facility.

Market opportunity “The laminating machinery is the largest single investment area of the

process. Production will be driven by technology and automation. This enables exact dimensions in the generated product and significantly lower operating costs,” Mr Lantry explained. He said the market for glue laminated timbers was well established and provided access to new timber products that would have otherwise not been available. “Innovation in construction and the increased use of off-site built modular construction has directly impacted work practices on site and design thinking. “These changes in the building market for timber construction have created a market opportunity for cross-laminated structural timber,” he said. Separately, the Group has worked in the renewable, Green Energy space, working with Monash University on finalising “Bio-CharPaste” fuel which is ideally suitable to power a Direct Injection Carbon Engine (DICE) or Diesel-style engine (instead of Diesel). The base raw material used was timber wood waste, such as green sawdust and wood chips, derived out of Forestry/Sawmilling operations.

Full suite state-of-the-art saw shop solutions

hode has been busy in recent times with saw shop machinery upgrades. Partnered with Iseli who are recognised as the world leader in Sawmill saw shop machinery Thode has delivered more saw shop solutions to industry in the past three years than it did in the previous 10 years. This is a result of unprecedented research and development at Iseli’s headquarters in Switzerland resulting in a full suite of state-of-the-art saw shop solutions. The key benefits of the upgrades are more exacting precision through full CNC equipped machines with oil flood and fire suppression options. They now have much tighter tolerances enabling sharper cutting edges from CBN grinding wheels which have a life measured in years instead of days. The CBN wheels don’t need regular dressing and hold their shape for extremely long periods keeping consistency and coupled with oil flood the chance of heating is greatly reduced and maintenance costs are www.timberbiz.com.au

minimal compared to emulsion water based flooding. With the sharper saws they run longer and need less material removed when regrinding resulting in a reduction of saws being purchased (another savings). Another key benefit is healthier clean high tech saw shops which attract new entrants into the saw doctoring trade. At Thode’s Bandsaw manufacturing plant based in Rotorua New Zealand there was a real issue attracting talented trainees prior to the major upgrade undertaken three years ago when the plant was relocated to their current premises on Te Ngae Rd. This facility is state of the art encompassing Australasia’s only bandsaw CNC water jet cutting technology coupled with Iseli’s suite of machines producing the highest quality of saws available today. Thode now has no concerns attracting new trainee’s and in fact has taken on five new young trainees’ in the last twelve months. What we are noticing is AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER February 2019

the very quick time frame the new staff are achieving operational competencies particularly with the touch screen CNC machines whereas the old days getting to a productive level took much longer as staff had to learn the quirks of each machine due to differential internal wear etc. Iseli makes the world’s best level and tension machine being the famous RZ1 which has enabled a high degree of consistency with customers reporting an increase of production and less saw shop labour. With Thode as the supplier of saws and where the purchaser of those saws both utilising the same CNC technology there is a syncing of repeat saw profiles which need little time spent in the mill saw shop compared to the old days of miss match of profiles from differing cam wear and wheel shapes etc. Should you wish to talk with Thode about the benefits of upgrading your saw shop please contact a Thode representative. 13

NEWS

■■ Sod turning: George Seymour, Jon Kleinschmidt, Cameron Dick, Bruce Saunders, Chris Hyne and Greg Moynihan.

Hyne GLT production plant expansion under way One of Maryborough’s largest developments in recent history

he first sod has been turned ahead of construction of Hyne Timber’s new Glue Laminated Timber (GLT) production plant. Hyne Timber’s CEO Jon Kleinschmidt said the new building would be constructed using the company’s own products, “The new building will be constructed using our own GLT, manufactured at our existing plant in Maryborough to further showcase capability and over 40 years of GLT manufacturing experience,” he proudly declared. News of the massive capability expansion in Maryborough was announced last October after the company secured a grant through the Queensland Government Jobs and Regional Growth Fund. “Further, Hyne Timber remains committed to using Queensland products and services throughout delivery of this construction project with a priority on Fraser Coast businesses where possible,” said Mr Kleinschmidt. “Every part of this development will celebrate and showcase Queensland businesses and skills as so many businesses and people 14

have supported us over our 137 years of operations,” he added. Hyne Timber continues to partner with Queensland company, Stirling Machinery, which is supplying the new production equipment that is made up of 14 different machines. Queensland project management company, MCD is overseeing the site development, working with Badge Construction and local Architect Adam Perrier of Bloc Design. Specialist consultants A number of other specialist consultants have already been engaged, all of whom are based in Queensland. With construction due to commence soon, up to 80 jobs will be created in what has been labelled by local service providers as one of Maryborough’s largest developments in recent history. The recruitment of a range of permanent, specialist roles has already started with more operational and specialist jobs created as production scales up. Hyne Timber’s GLT Sales Manager John Hesse said the company had been experiencing an increase in both inquiries and demand in GLT as consumers

searched for sustainable building solutions, “There is little doubt that responsibly sourced timber is experiencing a renaissance for a range of reasons but predominantly for its environmental credentials.

our product capability to capitalise on new growth opportunities,” Mr Hesse said. Feedstock to meet the increase in capacity is secured from Hyne Timber’s own sawmill, also located near Mary-

“Commissioning of the new, additional plant towards the end of the year presents a game changer for construction” “In addition to the standard residential housing market where GLT is usually covered up, we are seeing more and more GLT designed and specified in projects such as, schools, offices, healthcare and public spaces where the GLT is used for the key structural components while also providing a beautiful natural aesthetic,” said Mr Hesse. Highly-automated plant “There is currently a lack of Australian supply options so the commissioning of the new, additional plant towards the end of the year presents a game changer for construction. “This new, highlyautomated plant will increase volumes, improve the speed of delivery while broadening

borough. Community values In an age where climate change and environmental credentials are important community values, Hyne Timber is proud to produce

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER February 2019

products from certified, sustainable, locally grown plantation softwood. It’s renewable, recyclable, waste efficient, biodegradable, non-toxic and it locks away carbon. In fact, up to 50% of the dry weight of timber is carbon that the growing tree has removed from the atmosphere. Once harvested, all trees are replanted so the cycle can start once again, generating more oxygen while removing more carbon and securing local jobs into the future. Embodied carbon emissions in the construction sector account for over 23% of total greenhouse gas emis-

sions in Australia. The production and processing of timber uses much less energy than most other, more carbonintensive building materials such as steel and concrete. As a general rule, if we can replace a cubic metre of concrete with a cubic metre of timber, about a tonne (1000 kilograms) of CO2 emissions will be avoided. Hyne Timber was joined by Acting Premier and Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning, Cameron Dick; local member, Bruce Saunders; and Mayor, George Seymour for the official sod turning.

■■ Site plan render, courtesy of Bloc Design

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NEWS Great step forward

Geelong site for prefab industry is a game-changer Arrival will reinforce region as a Victorian Advanced Manufacturing Centre of Excellence

soon-to-beopened Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) processing and offsite manufacturing factory at Avalon Airport’s new industrial precinct has been hailed as a major win for both the City of Geelong and the building industry’s march toward more sustainable methods of construction. The launch of Cross Laminated Offsite Solutions’ (CLOS) factory would create local jobs, support sustainable development and bring significant potential to grow an advanced manufacturing industry in Geelong,” said Shane Quinn, Executive Chairman of Quintessential Equity, when breaking news of the plans.

“Green design is no longer an option, it’s an expectation. “We believe every new building in Australia from today onwards has to be designed with sustainability top of mind. “The CLOS factory in Geelong will be a gamechanger for the construction industry in Victoria and beyond. Local, accessible mass engineered timber will help put Australia in contention to meet and exceed global standards like WELL Ratings and the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals,” said Mr Quinn. “We’re excited about CLOS because Quintessential Equity wants to use CLT technology – we’d love to construct our first CLT building in

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Geelong. What’s more, it will support local advanced manducating and we’re big supporters of that. “Building with CLT is sustainable and efficient. Eight times the amount of carbon is emitted to produce a tonne of concrete compared to a tonne of timber, and building costs can be reduced by up to 20% during construction,” he said. Quintessential Equity, founded in 2004, has developed a strong track record of green design and supporting local economies. “One of our earlier projects in Parramatta set the benchmark for exemplar sustainability winning the Energy Efficiency Council (EEC) Best

Commercial Building Energy Efficiency Project. We’ve also halved the carbon footprint of the NAB’s headquarters building in Adelaide and recently achieved global best practice at 1 Malop Street right here in Geelong, which also created hundreds of local jobs,” he said. The CLOS factory, set to open mid-2019, will prefabricate engineered timber products into walls, floors, roofs and other building components, adding the necessary cladding, insulation and plasterboards. The materials will then be sent to building sites where they are assembled and used in construction, using a similar principle as IKEA flat pack furniture.

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER February 2019

While CLOS will initially import the cross laminated timber (CLT) used, the company aims to become Australia’s second CLT producer within five years, which would create around 100 direct local jobs as well as secondary employment in areas such as transportation. Along with CLT processing and offsite manufacturing, CLOS will process laminated veneer lumber (LVL) and glued laminated timber (glulam).

So much potential CLOS Founder and Managing Director John Fitzgibbon was previously part of the building team for the new WorkSafe building in Continued on Page 16

“News of a CLT processing plant to be built at Avalon is very welcome by demonstrating another step forward in creating growth within the local supply chain for offsite timber and mass wood prefabrication,” said Kevin Ezard, Director, Frame Australia Conference and Exhibition. Kevin, who has been associated with the industry for well over two decades and who has seen construction systems and technologies change drastically, said there was an obvious need to increase CLT production. “The building industry in Australia is beginning to move in this direction, with increasing interest in finding solutions to shortages of skilled labour as a global issue and key driver for change. “Also, there is a shift towards improved productivity in building and reduction in construction times that is encouraging awareness of prefabrication and off-site manufacturing,” he said. “As a building material cross-laminated timber (CLT) is ideal for high volume manufacture, and supply in Europe has been expanding by 30% per year to meet the incredible growth in demand, which is now over 1 million cubic metres per annum. “In Australia we need to be increasing production and processing of CLT to provide designers with new tools in building design, and to offer building solutions that are faster and cheaper to build, and at same time providing higher quality products for clients that utilize significantly higher volume of renewable materials.” + Timber Offsite Construction -- Frame Australia Conference & Exhibition, 17-18 June, Crown Promenade Melbourne

NEWS

Geelong site for prefab industry game-changer Continued from Page 15

Geelong, where he saw an opportunity for Geelong to lead the way in mass engineered timber manufacturing. “Mass engineered timber like CLT has so much potential. “When you look at places like Europe and parts of the US, it’s clear Australia isn’t doing enough of it,” said Mr Fitzgibbon. The current prefabricated housing market in Australia is a $4.5 billion sector, or 3% of the $150 billion construction industry, whereas Germany and Sweden’s prefabricated modular housing accounts for about 20% and 70% of their respective industries. “There’s real opportunity for a major ad-

vanced manufacturing industry in Geelong – we have the space, the local workforce and the lifestyle that makes workers want to stay and live in the area. With the demise of hard manufacturing and the resurgence of white-collar jobs, I see advanced manufacturing as the next stage of Geelong’s economic growth.” The Geelong Manufacturing Council (GMC) has welcomed the arrival of CLOS. David Peart, GMC’s CEO, said they were looking forward to assisting the CLOS team to grow and connect with other businesses in the region.

Welcome addition “The arrival of CLOS

to the Geelong region is a welcome addition to our local advanced manufacturers. This arrival will reinforce our region as a Victorian Advanced Manufacturing Centre of Excellence. We look forward to supporting

ther enable the company’s commitment to developing the Geelong CBD and creating sustainable buildings that provide long-term environmental benefit. The diversified commercial property group delivered

“Local, accessible mass engineered timber will help put Australia in contention to meet and exceed global standards” CLOS through our network and various programs and events that will assist long-term sustainable growth for the business,” Mr Peart said. Quintessential Equity has been a strong advocate for the new factory, which will fur-

the exemplar WorkSafe building earlier last year and recently signed an agreement to build the new GMHBA head office. CLOS will initially move into an ex-aviation hangar at Avalon. The move into the purpose-built factory

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER February 2019

will be dependent on CLOS’ realised growth, which is expected to be after three years. Construction of the actual factory would be through the LinFox group and leased back by Clos. The facility and machinery will evolve over time, however, confidential discussions are being held on machinery branding, and will also incorporate materials handling, processing equipment, production lines and CNC capabilities.

Worker training CLOS will initially engage 20 workers in different roles early, however, this is forecast to grow to about 100 within five years. This

has a multiplier to that of the wider community -- deliveries, local suppliers, waste collection/ recycling, education, innovation, construction, etc. CLOS has already been liaising with Gordon TAFE in developing appropriate programs and courses, but these are only early discussions. However, Gordon TAFE and CLOS are both eager to go down this path Some specialist workers will be sought for various roles plus upskilling the local workforce. The aim is also to utilise the ex- automotive employees in new roles. The business is keen on promoting a culture of continued improvement and training.

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NEWS

Big River Group expands into Victoria with MB Prefab acquisition A key step in the continued expansion into the major population centres of Australia

onstruction industry leader, Big River Group, has acquired the assets and trading business of M.B. Prefab Framing Pty Ltd (MB Prefab), in Geelong, making it the 14th distribution site for BR following four other business acquisitions in 2017. The MB Prefab deal has been described as a key step in Big River’s continued expansion into the major population centres of Australia, and will enable them to directly supply the trade segment of the building and construction industry in this area. Acquiring MB Prefab not only gives Big River a market position in the growing Geelong region, it also provides a stra-

tegic positioning in the prefabrication market, a growing trend in construction design. “This highly regarded local business will become an important part of the Big River network,” says Jim Bindon, CEO of Big River Group. “The site is very well equipped to supply the broader range of products marketed by Big River Group into all construction segments of the Geelong and broader Melbourne markets.” MB Prefab has a long trading history in the Geelong market, having been established over 40 years ago. Doug Maxwell, one of the founders of MB Prefab, will remain with the business in an operational role, and all staff will be retained as part of the tran-

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sition into the Big River group. Big River Group manufactures and distributes timber and steel formwork products, timber flooring, structural plywood and related timber

distribution outlets including Sydney, Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Townsville, Illawarra, Geelong, Melbourne, Hume (ACT), Adelaide and Perth. The company also owns and

“A key step in the continued expansion into the major population centres of Australia” products, and distributes a broad range of other building products, including MaxiWall, primarily to the commercial and residential, non‐residential and infrastructure construction market segments. Big River owns and manages 14 sales and

operates manufacturing facilities at Grafton and Wagga Wagga in NSW. Big River provides customers with the security of a full support network, and technical expertise at every stage of the product lifecycle. This is the guarantee of quality and service

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER February 2019

that Big River has based its 110 years of success on.

History of Big River Group Big River Group had humble beginnings when, in the 1860s, Daniel Pidcock founded a small timber business, which was run by his wife Mary after he died of sunstroke at only 39 years of age. Their son, Thomas Pidcock, then took up the family business. Thomas started his career as a sawmiller in 1894 in Northern NSW, and opened sawmills in Richmond Range and Tabulam in the 1920s. In 1928, he constructed the first sawmill in the State of NSW to use hydroelectric power to mill hoop pine and eucalypts.

A decade later, in 1938, ‘Thos. Pidcock and Sons Pty Ltd.’ was formed as a legal entity, opening offices and factories in Grafton and Coffs Harbour. Thomas Pidcock passed away in February 1948 at the age of 81; he was governing director. Following his death the company was controlled by his four sons; Julian, Lou, Kevin and Charles. In 1960, the family sold its considerable sawmilling operations and constructed a modern rotary veneer factory in Grafton, to produce decorative and marinegrade veneers. In 1983 the company moved from veneer to plywood production in line with the Continued on Page 18

NEWS

Big River Group expands into Victoria with MB Prefab acquisition Continued from Page 17

Wran Government’s new logging restriction, and pioneered the use of regrowth and plantation eucalypt to make F27 hardwood Formply.

AFS Certification To this day, all timber processed by the company is sourced from sustainably managed plantation and regrowth forests, which have Australian Forestry Standard Certification. Sales and distribution centres were established across Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney by 1992, Perth in 2000, and Townsville in 2003. In 2005, the company invited fresh blood into the fold and promoted Jim Bindon, CFO, to the position of

managing director. This followed the retirement of Kerry Pidcock, who had spent 25 years at the helm of the company, and marked the first time Big River Timbers’ managing director was not a member of the Pidcock family. In 2006 the company acquired a centre in the Sunshine Coast as well as its second manufacturing facility in Wagga Wagga.

Multiple developments Across these multiple developments and acquisitions, the company remained a family business, with third and fourth generation members of the founding Pidcock family still actively involved in the company. In 2007, the company’s strong family roots

saw Big River Group awarded first prize in the ‘fourth generation and over’ category of the NSW and ACT Family Business of the Year Awards. Pidcock’s greatgranddaughter, Mary Lynne Pidcock, and was an active member of the company’s board of directors until 2010. In 2009, the company installed its first Amourdeck steel roll-forming line in Grafton, along with a co-generation electricity plant that greatly reduces Big River’s requirement to source energy from the grid. The last two years in particular have seen the company enjoy accelerated growth. In early 2016, the Pidcock family sold Thos. Pidcock and Sons Pty

Ltd. to private equity firm Anacacia Capital (through entities nominated by it) and the Pantheon Entities. In connection with this investment, Big River Group Holdings Pty Ltd and the Company were incorporated and, together with the Operating Company, comprise the Big River Group. This tradition of innovation and expansion first established by Pidcock carried on throughout Big River Group’s century long presence, and 2017 marked a milestone year for the company. Big River Group was successfully listed on the ASX, and four businesses were acquired; Sabdia Mitre 10 in Brisbane; Midcoast Timbers on the Gold Coast; Ern Smith Timber and Hardware

in Hume, and Adelaide Timber & Building Supplies (ATBS). The acquisition of ATBS then enabled the company to launch its new Autoclaved Aerated Concrete products, MaxiWall, and MaxiFloor, nationwide. Most recently, Big River Group acquired the assets and trading business of M.B. Prefab Framing Pty Ltd (MB Prefab), in Geelong, Victoria in December 2018. MB Prefab is the 14th distribution site for the company, and is a key step in Big River’s continued expansion into the major population centres of Australia, which include Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Gold Coast Sydney, Illawarra, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney, the Sunshine Coast, and Townsville.

The company now boasts over 65 employees in Grafton at the original factory Piddock founded, and a further 300 employees nationally.

Big River Group’s current customers Big River’s customer base is primarily made up of professional builders, formworkers, construction companies and building contractors that operate in the commercial and residential, non-residential and infrastructure construction market segments. Big River products can be found in some of the biggest construction projects in Australia, including Perth Stadium, Brisbane Airport, and the Victorian Auditor General’s Office.

Rotary peel and engineered timber mill proposed for Bell Bay

atriarch Resources Pty Ltd, a subsidiary company of Patriarch and Sons Pty Ltd, is seeking to establish a hardwood rotary peel and engineered timber mill in the industrial zone at Bell Bay in Tasmania’s north. Subject to approvals (an application has been lodged with the Board of the Environment Protection Authority for assessment under the Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act 1994 (EMPC Act), the project will be developed in stages, the first stage planned to be operational by mid-2019. The company, which has purchased the former Southern Aluminium Wheel Plant site which is ■■ The Southern Aluminium Wheel Plant during its ideally located for the proposed mill, is currently heyday. working to obtain the appropriate development and operation of the facility will create up to 80 posienvironmental statutory approvals. Director Allen Wong said if approved the devel- tions. “A third stage – a proposed engineered timber opment would occur in various stages. “The construction of stage one and two is worth stage – will involve an additional investment of more than $28 million, covering site purchase, more than $22 million and will create further trainadaption of the factory and plant and equipment,” ing and employment opportunities.” Mr Wong said Patriarch planned to purchase he said. “More than $4 million in local building and elec- wood from existing public and private sources, trical work will be required and will be directed to comprising certified wood from plantations and native forests that was currently wood chipped. local firms as much as possible. “The proposed veneer mill will provide opportu“It is estimated that the project will create between 30 to 40 jobs during construction, while the nities for wood currently planned to be harvested to 18

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER February 2019

benefit from an additional value-adding process,” he said. “This will involve a different approach to resource utilisation and management, and will require a significant investment in a range of innovations. “We will engage with a range of local experts, including the University of Tasmania to extend research into value-adding of plantation timber.” Patriarch was recently formed by private investors who have had a long history of investment and operation in the timber industry in Malaysia. Subject to approvals, the project will be developed in stages. The first stage is planned to be operational by mid-2019. The second stage, which will proceed concurrently, is planned for operation in the fourth quarter of 2019. A third stage to include engineered timber is planned to proceed once further development of techniques are concluded successfully. The inaugural chairman of a committee established to bolster the Bell Bay industrial precinct has welcomed the “significant” mill proposal. Ray Mostogl, a former general manager of Bell Bay Aluminum and inaugural chairman of the soonto-be rebranded Bell Bay Advanced Manufacturing Zone, said the proposal was a “fantastic example” of what the group had been working on for years. www.timberbiz.com.au

Wood Protection

Engineered Wood Product Additives Protection solutions for engineered wood products against insects and decay.

Engineered wood products are an essential component of the modern construction industry. LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) and other innovations such as CLT (Cross Laminated Timber) are opening up new possibilities for large scale wood based construction. Lonza offer a comprehensive range of glue line additive insecticides, preservatives and veneer pre-treatments for protection of engineered wood products.

To learn more about the products and services available in the Asia Pacific region contact us, or visit our website, Australia: +61 3 9339 8915 tanalised.au@lonza.com New Zealand: +64 9 276 3646 tanalised.nz@lonza.com Website: www.lonzawoodprotection.com/apac Azotek, Permatek and Glusect are registered trademarks of Lonza or its subsidiaries. ÂŠ Lonza 2018

Imported timber

Cherry picked In his design of Yancoal’s Head Office, Todd Hammond shows why he is rapidly becoming an authority on the use of timber in Australian interiors

esigner Todd Hammond of Sydney based Hammond Studio says he finds clients increasingly coming to him because of his use of timber in design. When talking timber with clients, Hammond starts with tone and character, breaking the choice down into the spectrum from light to dark. “The darks: people can sometimes see them in a conservative way; lighter oaks may be considered more contemporary, but I find that cherry sits perfectly in the middle,” he says. This was the approach he took when engaged

by mining company Yancoal, to design their 1800m2 new office space in the Harry Seidler designed Darling Park Towers in Sydney. The company, previously based in a more traditional setting in 363 George Street, were looking for a more productive use of their workspace. Like many other companies their aim was to put staff wellbeing at the heart of the design. Hammond firstly questioned the old cellular office structure and encouraged his client to locate the enclosed offices near the core of the building. He then looked

to maximise the experience of the environment for the staff who were not in offices by positioning the main shared workspace towards the outside edge to maximise natural light and views of the harbour. A very engaged and open client certainly aided the process, according to Hammond. Alignment on the wish to showcase natural materials and timber led to not only a unique natural stone floor, exhibiting highly fossilized pieces throughout, but also extensive use of American cherry solid timber and veneers. In his career, working

for architectural powerhouses including Woods Bagot and BVN Donavan Hill, Hammond has become something of an expert in American cherry. Having previously specified cherry in a number of high profile Sydney projects including the award winning Paramount by The Office Space and Herbert Smith Freehill’s offices, he was well aware of the opportunities and limitations of this particular species. “My system is that if you’re going to use cherry wood then you don’t try and match it with other timber,” he says. With this in mind

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER February 2019

the Yancoal project has cherry throughout to create a seamless, calming effect. Cherry veneer WoodWall from the Elton Group covers expanses of curved wall while solid American cherry joinery visually links with the edging on the Hammond designed workstations. The workstation system was put into production by Seehosu and, like the rest of the office, the sit-stand design puts employee comfort at the fore. The end result is a light, warm, energising space. The benefits of using natural materials in the workspace to enhance employee experience,

wellbeing and productivity are increasingly proven and this is just one reason why we can expect to see much more of Hammond and his team. Designer: Hammond Studio Contractor: FDC Group Project Manager: Generate Property Group Tenant Advisory: Counsel Advisory Engineers: Evolved Engineering Timber supplier: Britton Timbers, Briggs Veneers and Elton Group

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Materials Handling

Combilift pays tribute to its Oz brigade

ombilift MD Martin McVicar makes it a priority to visit all primary global markets and meet with key and new customers on an annual basis. Last year, however, given it was Combilift’s 20th anniversary, and there were a number of customers who could not make it to the major

factory opening and 20th anniversary celebrations, Martin took the extra step (along with members of the Irish Government) to host a group of customers at the Irish Consulate in Sydney. Quite simply, that his modus operandi; to meet and talks to the people who support, know and have confidence in the

products Combilift manufactures. Basically, Martin’s philosophy is – a satisfied client becomes more than a client – they become part of the Combilift creed, and it doesn’t matter whether you buy one unit in five years or 100 units a year! Combilift, founded by Martin and Robert

Moffett back in 1998, has grown to become the largest global manufacturer of multi-directional forklifts and an acknowledged leader in long load handling solutions. The driving force behind Combilift’s operations is a desire to deliver innovation in the material handling arena.

Responsiveness to the ever-changing needs of the customer permeates every area of the business. This is borne out by the fact that Combilift continually invests 7% of all revenue in research and development as part of its relentless quest to find safer, more productive and more

cost-effective ways to lift challenging loads in challenging environments. + Our sincere thanks to Chris Littlewood (Country Manager Australia, Combilift Ltd. Combilift - Customised Materials Handling Solutions) for the photos highlighting the MD’s visit.

Combilift notches up another record Combilift continues to raise the bar, so much so that 2018 was a record year for the global materials handling company. In fact, 7500 machines rolled off the assembly lines at the Ireland-based factory which emphasises the true worth of its new factory (also opened last year) and its mass customisation ethos. It was a record year in exports to Australia, too! The Combi PPT (Powered Pallet Truck) is just one of the new units being supplied into major timber and hardware wholesalers in Australia and New Zealand. The powered pallet truck comes with standard lift capacities of 3,000 kg and 6,000 kg, with higher capacity models from 7,000kg to 16,000kg available on request. It is a further addition to the Irish company’s growing pedestrian range with the optional operator’s platform enabling stand-on or walk behind operation. The Combi-PPT includes a feature common to all Combilift’s pedestrian models: its unique, patented multi-position tiller arm. This enables the operator to stand at the side of the unit rather than at the rear (as is the case with other walk behind brands), giving operators excellent visibility of even the bulkiest loads and their surroundings. The operator’s position also eliminates any possibility of crush risk when working in confined areas and prevents product damage. “With the introduction of the Combi-PPT, very 22

heavy loads can now be handled using these walkbehind machines, ensuring high levels of safety while guaranteeing efficient procedures even in confined spaces,” according to Martin McVicar, Managing Director, Combilift. (see separate article and photos covering his visit to Australia) “Combilift developed its first pedestrian models (the Combi-WR, Combi-WR4 and the Combi-CS) in response to an industry demand to move away from ride-on forklifts. As a company we are seeing a growing demand for pedestrian trucks, driven by safety concerns where customers and/or employees are in the vicinity of operating forklifts. “It is our intention to significantly expand our pedestrian forklift range as can be seen with the launch of the Combi-PPT. This forklift offers safer operation, maximum operator visibility and narrow aisle performance,” he said. The Combi-PPT’s automatic folding platform is an added benefit for operators when large distances have to be covered in a warehouse or production plant. The power steering, dual rear wheel drive and AC motor technology make it effortless and stress free for operators: it “glides” across the floor even when moving very heavy loads and its manoeuvrability enables tight corners to be negotiated safely and with ease. A range of optional fork lengths, widths and configurations is available – in line with Combilift’s policy of supplying customised solutions for individual customer requirements. AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER February 2019

Combi-PPT Features Include: Power Steering AC Motor Technology Rear Wheel Drive Patented Multi-Position Tiller Arm Optional Extras: Fork Configurations for Reels Wider Forks Longer Forks Closed Fork Height Slave Pallet System Available

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inTECH2019

■■ Neil Forbes, Managing Director, Weinig Australia … InTech - big splash for 2019 with some machines completely new to Australia.

■■ Weinig’s InTech 2019 will be held at the company’s expanded Western Sydney facility at 3 Widemere Road, Wetherill Park.

InTech 2019 as Weinig muscles up in solid wood processing Impressive range of machinery working live, in-depth technical expertise, and on site to support client business performance and growth

einig Australia’s inaugural InTech 2019, planned for 3-5 April 2019, will present an outstanding opportunity for existing and prospective clients to come and talk to Germany-based technicians and see machines in full operational mode. In addition to confirming the company’s status as a world leader in solid wood processing Weinig’s InTech 2019, to be held at Weinig’s expanded Western Sydney facility at 3 Widemere Road, Wetherill Park, will reinforce Weinig’s long standing reputation for German design, manufacturing and engineering excellence. The event will also signal Weinig’s shift to a new level in Australasia. Weinig’s InTech 2019 will be a chance to see Weinig’s complete machinery range covering the entire value chain in solid wood processing on display and working live. Managing director Neil Forbes said Weinig Australia will be stepping up a level in 2019. “Our inaugural Weinig

InTech in April will reaffirm our preeminent position as the solid wood processing experts in Australasia.” “InTech will have plenty of space, an impressive range of machinery working live, in-depth technical expertise, and on site to support client business performance and growth.” Ranging from entrylevel machines to larger, integrated industriallevel machining centres, InTech 2019 will be squarely targeted towards broad, solid wood processing from standalone processing, such as windows and doors and wooden furniture, right through to larger industrial high production wood processing, including sawmill and further large, integrated value-adding processing operations.

Completely new Mr Forbes said InTech will be Weinig’s: “… big splash for 2019. Some machines will be completely new to Australia – never been seen here before.” “We will also have wood processing related

companies at InTech covering financing, insurance, software, tooling and other support services to assist visitors.” “We are also very pleased to announce that InTech will provide us with the opportunity to launch and promote Weinig’s Australia’s innovation and training centre.” Mr Forbes said that no matter how large or small a wood processing company may be they are sure to find an appropriate machine or operating system. “So I invite industry participants to come and explore the Weinig world at InTech, whether you are interested in efficient individual machines or complex system concepts – InTech 2019 is being designed to cater for your needs.” He said a mix of live demonstrations and practical information has shaped the thinking behind the design and agenda for InTech 2019. “Data is the fuel of the 21st century,” said Mr Forbes. “So a central theme of InTech 2019 will be digitization of production, for which

■■ With finger jointing increasingly a feature of solid wood processing, InTech 2019 will showcase the never seen in Australia before, the ProfiJoint Finger Jointer with PUR Glue application.

Weinig has developed an extensive portfolio of solutions.” Among the various machinery and operating systems that will be on display and functioning will be renowned Powermat 1500, HSK - 018 that has the capacity to produce a structured/ textured finish, together with the never displayed in Australia before, the perfect measuring tool for exact dimensioned profile regardless of complexity, the OptiControl Digital, linked to Powermat 1500. Also present will be the Powermat 700 – 018, an entry level planer/ moulder, and the entry level, robust BKS – bandsaw, plus the entry level multi rip saw, featuring the patented Quick Fix locking device, the UniRip – Multirip , and the never exhibited in Australia before, the multi rip saw, the VarioRip 310M.

Increased recovery With finger jointing increasingly a feature of solid wood processing to increase recovery and optimise grade outturn, InTech 2019 will also showcase the never seen

in Australia before, the ProfiJoint Finger Jointer with PUR Glue application for external timber products. The latest profile and face grinder, the well known, reliable, accurate R960 – Comfort; along with the R1000 – full CNC profile grinding and moulder master will be on show for the first time in Australia, plus the perfect all-rounder for automatic straight knife and face grinding, including finger joint tooling, the R980 – straight and face grinder. The 5-axis head profiler for complicated profiles the Pro Master – 5-axis will be operating as will the well renowned cross saw with in feed mechanisation and sorting for perfect component cutting from wall frames to furniture, the S90 – cross transfer in feed and 10metre sorting machine. Mr Forbes stated that Weinig was seen as the innovation hub of solid wood processing. “The technology and machines of the Weinig Group regularly set new bench marks and have done so for over 100 years. This meticulously

acquired know-how – along with the latest ideas of our developers and engineers – awaits visitors to our InTech 2019 event.” “So come along, discover and test latest technology for every challenge in solid wood processing and gain valuable inspiration for your business.” “Your exciting journey into the world of German solid wood processing technology and engineering excellence will await you at InTech 2019,” Mr Forbes said. “So take advantage of the opportunities to have a chat to our Germanybased and Australianbased experts.” Mr Forbes confirmed that InTech 2019 will appreciate that while modern machines and innovative technology are important; equally critical are concepts and solutions that allow wood processing companies to implement Weinig leading technology, efficiency and profitably solutions. InTech 2019 will also feature German-themed catering with bratwurst, bread rolls, pretzels, German beer and more.

■■ On display and functioning at InTech 2019 will be renowned Powermat 1500, that has the capacity to produce a structured/textured finish.

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER February 2019

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www.weinig.com.au 1800 736 460

New Parliament House

Wood dominates New Parliament House The beauty of Australian native hardwood timbers is on full display in all its glory By Philip Hopkins

t was clear to architect Hal Guida that timber would play a role in the construction of the country’s new Parliament House. “Timber is common to architectural interiors in fine public buildings – look at the Houses of Parliament in London,” said Hal, who was a partner in the firm of Mitchell/Giurgola & Thorp Architects (MGT) that subsequently won the competition to design the landmark building in 1980. “Our second stage competition submission noted that we planned to use timber (wood) at various places for flooring and wall panelling without being overly specific,” he said in Can26

berra in an interview with Australasian Timber. The project’s overall leader and Design Architect, Romaldo (Aldo) Giurgola, who in reflections before his death in 2016, said the building was always going to be a celebration of the excellence of Australian design and craftsmanship, including carpentry, stone masonry and furniture-making. “Craftsmanship should be considered as having a major role in the manifestation of an Australian national spirit and character,” he wrote in the publication ‘Interwoven: The Commissioned Art and Craft for Parliament House’. Craftsmanship, he said, was “a bridge between architecture and

the fine arts through its ancient role of transforming functional, utilitarian elements into objects of aesthetic pleasure”. The upshot was that about 25 different local hardwoods from all states, in a variety of shades and colours, were used in products ranging from sophisticated marquetry to seating, wall panels, parquetry, cabinets, desks and furniture - tonnes of timber in a building designed to last more than 200 years. The beauty of Australian native hardwood timbers is on full display in all its glory.

Carbon storage Parliamentarians may not be aware of it, but all this timber makes much of the building a massive

carbon store; the trees from which the timber came sequestered tonnes of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as they grew, and the CO2 remains embedded in the various wood products. The whole Parliament project required extensive and delicate planning. Responsibility for the Parliament House Art/Craft Program went to Pamille Berg, while Hal, now with Guida Moseley Brown Architects, was in charge of design co-ordination. “I worked on the design everywhere on the building with each of the teams – 20 teams originally – on all the components,” he said. His task was to both initiate and follow the concepts and ideas being developed, and co-ordinate them

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER February 2019

through the whole of the project – a building on four levels with prestigious chambers and spaces, a basement and about 4500 rooms. The teams for the various areas were all numbered. “We were looking for coherence in design, but variety at the same time,” he said. In the provisional Parliament, green was the traditional colour in the House of Representatives and red in the Senate chamber. “We developed a strategy …where the two chambers would retain their symbolic colour but we would generate new or refined Australian colours rather than the British colouration of the original building,” he said. Each team worked on

assessing colour and materials, including timber, for the principal rooms. “We were looking for use of materials that had continuity as you moved from one major space to the other,” Hal said.

Links forged A key adviser was revered New South Wales timber expert Keith Bootle. Links were forged with craftsmen and joiners who advised on the workability and availability of various timbers. At the same time, MGT’s teams were producing documentation for construction, including the need for a specific construction manager. “There was a lot of timber to source. Everyone wanted continuity in quality and supply, and to be sure they

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New Parliament House

could do a room in one material, that enough could be supplied, and was responsibly harvested,” Hal said. “What came out of that was a proposal and program to source the timber independent of the people who were going to use it to make things, so it became a timber supply program. “We had the quantity surveyors do an assessment of each of the different timbers over the whole building and determine what quantity was needed – solids and veneers - solids for robust corners, and veneers over surfaces. “Then we went to tender on supply packages for large processors – harvesting, processing and delivery of timber in various sizes for joiners and craftsmen around the country, some of whom were not known yet. We had not tendered; we needed a process.” Up to 10 suppli-

ers came on board; a key player was Peter Duncan from Duncans Holdings, who passed away late last year. Parallel to that, the construction manager established a quality assurance program with technical inspectors who had history in the area of materials they were inspecting.

Mill visits “People regularly visited the mills to ensure they were being cut, seasoned and moved progressively to the next stage of processing, and that the qualities were coming as expected,” Hal said. “Then groups from our office would make a trip to the mills to look at the samples coming out, give guidance on the use for cutting and on visual aspects.” Similar visits were made to factories producing the joinery. The various areas of the building were docu-

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mented, the individual work done by trades – stone, columns, plaster ceiling, joinery; all had to be co-ordinated. “We would observe the work in progress. To ensure visual continuity, for instance, we would do a ‘dry lay’, that is, lay the veneers out on

visual continuity, this tonality needs changing, could we have better continuity’ … that process continued as the finishing took place.” As the pieces came to the site, the team of 40odd architects watched as they were installed, making assessments,

“The artists and craftspeople achieved remarkable, superlative results, taking their commissions as the opportunity to do the best work of their lives for their country’s democratic space” the floor of the shop,” Hal said. “I have been up fork lifts holding on for dear life, looking down that was the only way we could get eight metres away from them as we would see it in the rooms, or on the floor – to say, ‘Yes, this is good

as the building was finished. Simultaneously, a whole MGT team designed the furniture - MPs’ and ministers’ desks, bookcases, TV cabinets, furniture in the hundreds in different material in the House and Senate side, all the

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER February 2019

time working together with coordinated colouration. They put in place a furniture procurement process. “We were doing the same thing, consulting with joiners and craftspeople about access to timber quantities – so many hard edges with exact measurements, and the issue of veneers,” Hal said. Independent of those two streams, but integrated within the MGT office, was an art and craft program throughout the building. “Certain pieces of furniture and joinery were so important, they should be taken out of the standard project and become a special item,” Hal said. “Obvious ones, for instance, were separate tables for the House and Senate chambers, the Speaker’s Chair and President’s Chair, and a series of identified pieces of furniture in key locations and in some cases panelling.”

Natural overlap Again, this process was led by another key person who headed a team overseeing the material and its availability. In some cases, there was a natural overlap between the architectural and art and craft program, such as in the main entrance Foyer. “We devised a series of joinery panels in an architectural setting. The panels would be laid by a joiner, but as part of the art program, we decided on inclusion of marquetry in those panels,” Hal said. The painstaking technique of marquetry involves veneers less than a millimetre thick cut with a scalpel into designs that are taped together and then veneered onto a particleboard backing. The method to do this became a collaboration. Continued on Page 28

New Parliament House

Wood dominates New Parliament House Continued from Page 27

Adelaide sculptor Tony Bishop designed 20 marquetry panels, each about 1.4 metres by 800 millimetres, to form part of the timber panelling in the main foyer. Mr Bishop had never been involved with marquetry, but produced elegant botanical lined drawings. Enter Sydney craftsman Michael Retter, who completed the fabrication of the 20 marquetry panels. Materials used were hand-cut timber base veneers in coachwood, jarrah, silky oak, silver ash, Queensland walnut and Tasmanian sassafras on particleboard with numerous marquetry timbers. Hughes Brothers sourced the jarrah and coachwood that were used. Mr Redder then delivered to Hughes Brothers the laid-up panel for them to press into their panels and install as a part of their work in putting the marquetry together.

Exquisite collaboration The exquisite collaboration created beautiful images of various plant

species linked to Australian history – plants that were early food for the Aborigines, an explicit recognition of the first Australians; species that interested the first European botanists; and other unusual Australian plants some of which are almost 200 million years old. Similar marquetry work was done in several places, such as the Cabinet room and on the Speaker’s Chair. A subtle and complex piece of construction was where the timber joinery had to be integrated with straight and flat precast or stone where the construction tolerances are very different. The timber joinery can ‘shift around’, so the solution in the Parliament building was to allow a designed gap where the two surfaces are close to allow visual continuity. In the process of finding timbers that had the required colour range, MGT’s team was having trouble finding timbers that related well to green.

A first “Keith Bootle said,

‘What about Turpentine?’ He introduced us to a timber that joiners had never used, a timber used for docks, railroads, marine areas – really strong. He got us a sample; it was perfect for the House side – not green, but it allowed us to work into those kind of areas,” Hal said. “He then suggested another one – Greybox - two timbers only used for industrial purposes.” The same supply program was developed – independent testings, cutting and testing, trial veneers. The good results from tests led to a supply contract for joinery on those timbers. “They are difficult to use because they ‘eat up’ the saws. There is so much silicon in them. They had to account for more blades to do their sizing than they would have for conventional furniture timbers. But the results were beautiful. We introduced them into commercial production,” Hal said. Architectural elements in the central Members’ Hall and Members’ seating furniture in the House of Representatives Chamber

subsequently used these high quality and unique timbers. In the Senate, a suite of timbers such as jarrah, rosewood/ rose gum created the Red theme. The columns of the Members’ Hall are of Turpentine, while Silver Ash is on the ceiling. The 48 lifts in the building are covered in White Birch peeled veneer.

Warm timber envelope In the Reception Hall (now the ‘Great Hall’) the celebrated artist Arthur Boyd designed the magnificent tapestry that that is a magnetic focal point of the room. The Reception Hall was described in the conceptual art program as a “warm timber envelope”, with golden brown native timbers on the floors and walls contrasting with the white ceiling and the warm sunlight entering through a skylight. The timbers in the Great Hall are Jarrah, Brush box and White Birch and some ebony, an imported timber received as a gift. Reflecting the room’s rich natural colours of the land and the sky, dominated by images of

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER February 2019

forest, the south wall tapestry landscape is devoid of people. It “is meant to …identify this room as an Australian place of past and present… with unmistakable meaning – namely, the power and value of the Australian land as the catalyst for her history and development”, said Pamille Berg in ‘Interwoven’. The tapestry, one of the largest in the world, was fabricated over three years by the Victorian Tapestry Workshop in collaboration with many specialists, including professional weavers, structural engineers, architects, textile curators and lighting experts. Close to the heart of head architect Romaldo Giurgola was the Speaker’s Chair, which he designed. The contract to build the chair went to furniture maker David Upfill-Brown and the upholstery was handled by Noel Smart from Smart Upholstery, Queanbeyan. For the chair construction, Grey Box veneers were laid over high-quality plywood to produce skins, which in turn were fixed to a Queensland Maple frame.

The chair is built of several base layers, much like a wedding cake, with a curved desk at the front and large feature panel at the rear. Grey box solids were used to produce edges and mouldings. Shaun Hayward, now a leading Canberra timber merchant, was an apprentice furniture maker at the time. Helping build that chair was exciting. “I was given the task to build the Maple sub frame and David did the rest with assistance from me on certain areas,” said Shaun. The chair is actually a steel framework with hydraulics to raise, lower and tilt it as required. The mechanism goes down into the floor of the chamber. Leather upholstered cushions complete the picture. “We installed the chair in the chamber shortly before the opening of the building in May 1988. Personally, my big claim to fame is that I was the first to sit in it,” Shaun said. “As soon as we placed the cushion I leapt aboard.” For the DVD celebrating the building’s 25th

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New Parliament House anniversary, there was no repeat performance. “I was bluntly told no re-enactment was to take place. Security were on hand to ensure I obliged!” he said. Shaun also helped furniture maker Chris McElhenny build the President of the Senate’s desk. “Working on these projects was a privilege at the time, even for a young guy like me,” he said. The last use of timber in the building started with the idea for a trellis in the Prime Minister’s courtyard. “We wanted big pieces of timber, solid, to be able to make free-standing structures. The only thing we could find at the time was karri from Western Australia,” Hal said. Then a team member saw - on the Monday

- an advertisement in The Saturday Australian for timbers being taken down from a wool store in Fremantle. They were for sale and in various sizes. “This is what we want – all 100-year old jarrah,” he said. The approval came: “Take a cheque book and get what you can.” “We obtained 100-year-plus jarrah, which we used for the trellis in the PM courtyard. Additional material was obtained for the trellis on the public terrace, also for the freestanding veranda on the Speaker’s walk between the office and chamber,” Hal said. “We treated each one in slightly different ways. We sandblasted to get the junk off, we pulled nails and cut them typically on one side top

and bottom, and they turned brilliant red. The Speaker’s veranda, finished and sealed, still has red. The others, as wanted, turned beautiful grey. They are now probably 130-150 years old.”

Miller’s crucial role A northern NSW saw miller with a deep knowledge of Australian furniture timbers, Evan Williams, stepped in to play a crucial role in the craft program. Evan had been painstakingly collecting rare Australian timbers for years, milling those logs that he knew could be used in custom furnituremaking. His collection was bought by the Parliament House Construction Authority specifically to be used in the Parliament building. NSW craftsman Leon

Sadubin designed and made a special series of 93 benches using this timber for seating throughout the building. The special timbers included rose she-oak, beefwood, fishtail silky oak, river and swamp she-oak, Sydney blue gum, red mahogany, jarrah, blackwood and silver ash. Little metal tags identifying the species were inserted into each wooden bench. Leon’s work harks back to Australia’s tradition of hand-crafted furniture, with fabrication recorded as early as 1877 in journals from the first year of British settlement. The timbers in the Parliament have been maintained now for 30 years by parliamentary services staff; floors and wall

panels area continuously cleaned. “The furniture gets beaten up – it needs attention. The use of furniture changes, there are new work designs. Changes to building are being made as part of a capital program and security upgrade,” Hal said. “It’s required in some places to find replacements. We have used Tassie Oak in some places because we could not find a timber light enough in certain portions of the building. It was a ‘gun to the head’ decision.” More than 200 artists, craftspeople, designers/ makers and their assistants worked on specific works for the building, collaborating with the architects and other professionals. Many were highly recognised, but others were in the early

stages of their career or had been working privately. Pamille Berg, writing 25 years later in ‘Interwoven’, said despite the risks – the high expectations, the pressure - the art/craft program was characterised by powerful, diverse works with deep resonance and meaning in the building. “The artists and craftspeople achieved remarkable, superlative results, taking their commissions as the opportunity to do the best work of their lives for their country’s democratic space,” she said. “Their generosity of spirit clearly infuses the work, endowing what they achieved with a vibrant intelligence and excellence which clearly deserves to last for the lifetime of the building.”

Time to take a long, hard look forward “You have timbers in here that you will struggle to get now and may be absolutely impossible to get in the future”

arliament House could not be built now in exactly the same way because many of the timbers used can no longer be obtained, say key experts, who urge parliamentary executives to collect spare timbers now and put them in long-term storage. “The availability of timbers is a problem. If you wanted to build this place now, you could not do it,” said Shaun Hayward, a leading Canberra timber merchant who worked on the building as an apprentice furniture maker more than 30 years ago. “You have timbers in here that you will struggle to get now and may be absolutely impossible to get in the future. You should be banking some of that,” he said. For example, he was asked for Queensland walnut recently, but it was not easy to get. “You should have 30-to-40 packs of different timber tucked away in a warehouse waiting for the day when in 100-150 years you need to do the work. These timbers are not that available now.” www.timberbiz.com.au

Architect Hal Guida agreed. “Keep saying that because we have been saying the same for some time,” he said. Shaun said this may require changing forestry policy, but new issues had emerged. “When we did the Speaker’s Chair, the framework was Queensland Maple, a big commercial species then,” he said. Timber from Asia was now a quarter of the price, whereas Queensland Maple was grown in World Heritage areas, but not exclusively. Australian Red Cedar and Silver Ash were slightly more readily available. “If a timber is not used, the consumer moves away from them. We are also seeing a lot of American hardwoods. They are the big flavour of the month. They’ve done a very good marketing job in Australia,” he said. “Domestic supplies have dried up, even though they are available. The trees are there and we can access them, chop them down, dry the wood and produce beautiful timber, but no one wants to buy it. AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER February 2019

“So the problem is, if the market does not want them, they will not get them. We have been making that point for some time. Some of the timbers are incredibly hard to get and will become harder. I would urge somebody to open their wallet tomorrow and go and buy a heap of it.” Shaun said this had to happen, otherwise if replacement timbers were eventually needed, they would be replaced with anything builders could get. “I don’t think that’s the vision of the architects. They will not want to see that – that is the scenario,” he said. Hal added: “It’s already happening.” Shaun said a long lead time was required to obtain the right trees, which had to be found and processed. “When you are trying to look after a building that’s meant to be here for 200 years, it’s a challenge,” he said. A lot was driven by changes in forestry policy, making the job harder and almost impossible. “Unfortunately we tend to work in election and budget cycles; we never look ahead,” he said. 29

New Parliament House

Timbers and Craftsmen Australian Parliament House (APH) Design Architects: Mitchell/Giurgola & Thorp (MGT) Architects.

variety of local timber species was used in solid and veneer form. Prominent species include Jarrah, Brush box, Grey Box, Silver Ash, Oak, Pine, White Bitch, Beech Myrtle, Coachwood and Turpentine. The timbers are used in wall panelling, balustrades, pergolas, parquetry flooring and furniture – tables, cabinets, chairs and seats. The furniture program consisted of about 25,000 high quality items, a half of which were specifically designed and manufactured for APH, while the rest were ready-made to exacting standards and in specified materials. 1. Marquetry, Foyer, Ground Floor – 20 panels featuring native plants: Design – Adelaide sculptor Tony Bishop. Fabri30

cation – Sydney craftsman Michael Retter. Materials – timber base veneers in coachwood, jarrah, silky oak, silver ash, Queensland walnut and Tasmanian sassafras on particleboard. 2. Display Case, Foyer, Ground Floor: Design – Henry Black and Romaldo Giurgola. Design Development and Fabrication – Henry Black. Materials – jarrah timber and glass. 3. King Table, Great Hall: Design - Mitchell/Giurgola & Thorp (MGT) Architects. Design Development and Fabrication - Queensland timber designer Robert Dunlop. Materials – Tasmanian myrtle, jarrah and blackwood. 4. Public Display Cases, Members’ Hall: Design – MGT. Design Development and Fabrication – NSW timber

craftsman Bill Williams. Materials – timber, bronze and glass. 5. Cabinet Suite, Timber Marquetry: Design – Tony Bishop. Fabrication – Michael Retter. Materials – veneered silky oak and silver ash timber wall panelling. 6. Central Table and Hansard Desk, House of Representatives: Design – MGT. Design Development and Fabrication – SA timber craftsman Bernie Koker. Materials – grey box timber, bronze and leather. 7. Speaker’s Chair, House of Representatives: Design – MGT. Design Development and Fabrication – Canberra timber designer/ maker David UpfillBrown. Marquetry Design – Tony Bishop. Marquetry Fabrication – Michael Retter. Materials – grey box solid

and veneer timber; assorted timber marquetry veneers. 8. Speaker’s Suite Furniture: Design and Fabrication – Victorian designer/maker David Emery. Materials - Victorian Ash, Australian red cedar. 9. Leader of the Opposition’s Suite Furniture, House of Representatives: Design and Fabrication – Tasmanian furniture designer/maker John Smith. Materials – Tasmanian blackwood, leather, grey laminate, glass and paint. 10. Display Case and Tables, House of Representatives: Design – MGT. Design Detail and Fabrication – NSW timber designer/maker Laurie Oliver. Materials – Australian black bean timber and glass. 11. Central Table, Hansard Table and Presi-

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER February 2019

dent’s Desk, the Senate: Design – MGT. Design Development and Fabrication – Hobart furniture craftsman Robert Blacklow with Phillip Blacklow. Materials – Tasmanian myrtle solid and veneer timber, jarrah, leather and bronze. 12. Coat of Arms, Senate: Artist – Peter Taylor, Warren Langley and Anne Dybka. Materials – Tasmanian myrtle timber, and etched and slumped glass. 13. Parquetry floor: Jarrah, Brush box and Turpentine. 14. Evan Williams rare timber collection: mainly used in 93 timber benches designed by Leon Sadubin. Materials - Rose she-oak, Beefwood, Fishtail silky oak, River Blackwood, Sydney blue gum, Red Mahogany, Jarrah, Blackwood and Silver Ash.

15. Rainforest timber: With the Australian government’s decision to discontinue the use of rain forest timbers after 10 August 1987, replacement timbers were sourced for the remaining work to meet the completion date of May 1988. 16. Gifts to APH: international timbers – Burmese Teak, Ebony and Monkey Pod. Sources: ‘Interwoven: The Commissioned Art and Craft for Parliament House’. M Pamille Berg, 2018 reprint. ‘Project Parliament: The Management Experience’. Parliament House Construction Authority, Australian Government Publishing Service, 1990. https://www.aph.gov. au/Visit_Parliament/ About_the_Building

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