MAY 2019
MANUFACTURE • TECHNOLOGY • DESIGN • CONSTRUCTION
Incorporating Australian and New Zealand Timberman – Established 1977.
Recognition for a true industry man
Prefab IS the future solution
Expanded 2019 event for Timber Offsite Construction
Innovation in timber engineering www.hundegger.com.au
Fast, efficient timber coating machinery. PERFECT FOR PRIMING AND PRE-OILING
Range of small and large models
Machine coating capacity can range from 1500 to 9000 lineal metres per hour depending on model
Easy cleaning and maintenance
Rotating brush application for consistent coverage
Imported direct from Denmark
Use for oil OR water based timber oils, stains and paints
Ceetec timber coating machinery is proudly distributed in Australia and New Zealand by Intergrain Timber Finishes. For more information on Ceetec equipment solutions, contact 1800 630 285.
Making NEWS
Lifelong mates the key to 50 years in the timber industry
I
n 1968 John Gorton was Prime Minister of Australia, Lyndon B Johnson was the US President, the Beatles were in the charts with Hey Jude and Otis Redding was Sitting on the Dock of the Bay. For OneFortyOne’s Pete Ransom 1968 was also the year he left
school and started working in the timber industry. Little did he know then, it would see him begin a lifelong career in an industry he has loved for more than 50 years. “I’ve been really lucky and done so many different jobs in the timber industry. My first job was stacking timber, and
since then I’ve driven trucks, operated machinery and had top notch training and development in a variety of jobs, keeping life interesting!” Over the past 50 years Pete has lived through many industry changes from significant improvements in safety, to increasingly high-tech
and cutting-edge sawmilling operations. “There really has been a lot of changes in this industry over my career, but the one thing that never changes is the people. It’s the people who make our industry what it is, and I feel lucky to have been part of it for so long.
“Working in the timber industry for over 50 years is more than just a job, more than a career even – it’s been a wonderful lifelong opportunity to keep learning new skills, work with a great bunch of people and feel happy at the end of the day for hav-
ing done a good day’s work,” said Pete. After five decades of working in this industry Pete is looking forward to his next set of adventures and plans to volunteer his time with local charities, hit the road on his beloved motorbike and travel around Australia.
Henri takes on important role with iconic Aussie timber business It’s taken a half a century, a passion for trees and move half way round the world, but Henri Bailleres has landed a top job with one of Australia’s iconic businesses. Henri has been appointed Product Development Manager for Hyne Timber. He hails from France’s south-western city of Toulouse, famed for its vast Landes Forest and more so for its superb dish Cassoulet. Henri’s passion for trees inspired him to pursue forest studies followed by Engineering in Wood Industry and Technology and finally completed a PhD in wood science. His multi-disciplinary scientific career spans a broad spectrum of the forest-based sector which has been rich in projects and partnerships. His extensive career in Research, Development and Innovation for the forestry-wood chain in Europe, Australia and several countries around the world, reflects his education and initial training; mixing technical skills through his timber engineering background, with research and development competencies through his various scientific activities in wood science and technology. Central to his R&D field is the achievement of
www.timberbiz.com.au
positive and sustainable difference to the community and the industry, with research and technical outputs directly used by forest growers, wood processors, fabricators and industry involved in timber-based structures. Over the past 10 years in Australia he led the Forest Products Innovation team in Salisbury at the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries. He has developed a range of relevant activities in the areas of forest products and wood sciences. He has successfully led several national and international projects with academic and industry partners supported by a range of funding bodies. He has developed an extensive research network and engaged with key Australian processors, manufacturers, and growers. He has worked passionately and tirelessly to ensure that the timber research program of his team remains relevant to the needs of the industry and the community, in Australian, in the Pacific and in several Asian countries. Henri says he is looking forward to his new role where he expects to deliver value through his technical and scientific expertise and his understanding of the forestry-wood value-chain.
AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER May 2019
3
Making NEWS
■■ Adam Jones - “passionate about lowering the environmental impact of the construction sector”
GBCA recognition for structural engineer
S
tructural engineer Adam Jones’ work has been recognised by the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) who named him Future Green Leader of the year at their recent TRANSFORM 2019 event. Adam is passionate about lowering the environmental impact of the construction sector and has been involved in a range of environmentally positive activities, including WoodSolutions. Recognising the effect that young professionals will have on developing a sustainable future, the GBCA cre-
ated the Future Green Leaders program, which is available to all industry professionals under 32. As the Future Green Leader of the year, Adam will gain entry and access to a wide range of GBCA events, a speaking opportunity at Green Building Day and a mentor for the year. “Being Future Green Leader of the year reinforces the value of a lot of the side projects and volunteering I’ve done and it also gives me an opportunity to shine a light on the things I’m most passionate about and to use this platform to really further the sus-
australasian
Incorporating Australian and New Zealand Timberman – Established 1977.
May 2019, Vol. 27, Issue 3 Established 1977
4
tainability goals of Australia,” said Adam. “Structural engineers have a real opportunity to make a big change in regard to more sustainable green-building choices every time they go to work, every single day. What materials we build with has a massive impact from a life cycle assessment,” he said. Around 8% of the whole world’s greenhouse gas emissions come from the production of cement. Steel production is responsible for about 2-3% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions. “Structural engineers are the ones who re-
Publisher and Chief Executive: Hartley Higgins General Manager: Robyn Haworth Editorial: John Hudswell j.hudswell@ryanmediapl.com.au (08) 7127 6370
ally need to understand these impacts and get engaged, if there’s any chance of improving building material emission impacts in the future.” Before working with WoodSolutions, Adam was the lead researcher for strategy four, which was using timber, of the Rethinking Cement report, produced by Beyond Zero Emissions. The aim of the report was to demonstrate strategies that could reduce emissions associated with cement to zero in 10 years. Adam explained that while he was working on the report he became
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 and the NEM Creative team
far more aware of the environmental benefits of wood products and the activities of WoodSolutions and decided that he’d like to become involved. Today, Adam is a senior engineer with TPC Solutions (Aust.) and among a range of engineering activities also produces WoodSolutions Timber Talks podcasts and co-hosts the WoodSolutions Young Professionals Network, which has informal gatherings in Melbourne and Sydney, where, in Adam’s words, “Each month we catch up for a social drink, a presentation
from an expert and talk about construction in general.” If you’re in the design and construction industry, under 35 and would like to know more, email Adam – jones@ woodsolutions.com.au Looking to the future, Adam said: “Timber is the best solution for increasing embodied carbon, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and meeting the sustainability goals of the International Panel on Climate Change. Increasing the use of timber in the built environment has a huge role to play and I look forward to being part of it.”
Subscriptions: subs@forestsandtimber.com.au Adelaide: (08) 8369 9532 Accounts: Adelaide: (08) 8369 9514 Postal Address: 630 Regency Road, Broadview, South Australia 5083 Phone: (08) 8369 9555 Fax: (08) 8369 9501
FRONT PAGE: When it comes to offsite construction then Impresa is certainly impressive as this photo shows. Read more in our Frame Australia feature from page 8.
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 May 2019
www.timberbiz.com.au
Finance
Claiming the 100% write off on $30,000 assets - a simplified explanation Let’s wards.
work
back-
$30,000 - 100% write-off (2/4/2019 to 30/6/2020)
By Mark O’Donoghue CEO & Founder of Finlease
T
he recent $30,000 immediate write off as mentioned in the Federal Budget on April 1 has now been passed through both Houses of Parliament so it is law (pending Royal assent which is simply a formality) So who can claim these 100% Write-Offs this year (2019 Financial year) and at what level?
All companies with the turnover up to $50 million p/a can claim a 100% write-off for equipment with a purchase price of $30,000 or less (excluding GST) where that equipment has been acquired and installed from April 2, 2019 until June 30, 2020 (almost the entire last quarter of this financial year and all of next financial year)
$25,000 - 100% writeoff (29/1/2019 to 1/4/2019) All companies with a turnover of up to $10 million can claim a 100% write off on equipment with the value of $25,000 or less
(excluding GST) that has been acquired and installed between January 29, 2019 & April 1, 2019
$20,000 - 100% write-off (1/7/2018 to 28/1/2019) All companies with a turnover of up to $10 million can claim a 100% write off on equipment with the value of $20,000 or less (excluding GST) that has been acquired and installed between (July 1, 2018 & January 28, 2019)
Summary So you can see that there are three tiers that are claimable and it is ONLY the most recent $30,000 tier which can be claimable by all companies with the turnover up to $50 million.
All three tiers are available to companies with the turnover up to $10 million. Remember, these are claimable on individual assets (not simply the total invoice value where there are multiple assets being purchased) so in the event that the company is buying 4 identical assets at $18,000 each plus GST, all 4 assets are applicable to this 100% write off opportunity. Clear as mud? If you have any questions please feel free to contact your Finlease Team Member or your accountant. If you are looking at buying equipment before June 30 to take advantage of these 100% write off’s; we would be delighted to assist with the finance.
FRIENDLY. FAST. DIFFERENT. #bank
#betterthanabank FAST TRACK APPROVALS UP TO $1,500,000 WITH NO FINANCIALS REQUIRED FOR EQUIPMENT & VEHICLE FINANCE*
MICHAEL ABBERTON 0488 480 463 mabberton@finlease.com.au
Finding a long term finance option that is easy, flexible and allows you to focus on what you do best shouldn’t be as hard as banks make it! Finlease specialises in equipment & vehicle finance with a team focused on speed, personal service and small business expertise, we really are Better than a Bank in so many ways. FINLEASE.COM.AU Australian Credit Licence: 390584 Finlease (Australia) Pty Ltd *To approved purchasers up to $1.5mil, terms & conditions may apply
www.timberbiz.com.au
AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER May 2019
5
Making NEWS
A gentleman through and through
■■ Three generations of the Cheney’s at Westruss Orange
Recognition for pioneer, provider and true industry man 2019 Clive Martella Service to Industry Award
T
here are some special people in life and there are some special moments, too. Sadly, they seem to be all too few. However, without wishing to over-use the word “special”, there were some special moments at the recent Frame & Truss Manufacturers Association of Australia national conference in Queensland. It was the announcement of the recipient of the coveted Clive Martella Service to Industry Award. This year’s recipient was Jim Cheney. Starting work in Eugowra back in 1966 making frames and trusses for Hay & Cheney was where Jim Cheney started his career before starting his own business Westruss in 1981 in Millthorpe NSW, and he was Multinail’s first fabricator! By 1998 the business had outgrown the factory and Jim found 6
a more central location in Orange. In 1998 they moved the business to its current location. Jim was a pioneer in roof truss manufacturing. Back when the industry first began in its current guise Jim had the vision to create what is still considered today to be a large truss plant and then to build the production level in to it. Jim, like many of his era, have been through plenty of economic downturns and even though they have been tough times, he has managed to steer Westruss through them and come out thriving on the other side. Right from the start, Jim was happy to help others. He helped Ron Caddy when he started Lamcal, Multinail’s first Victorian plant, and he was an early starter and instigator in the wall frame line and making sub-assemblies and fitting them on the way
down the line. He was also one of the first to try a flow through saw. Jim, like many oldies in the industry, is a bush engineer and he could see what was needed to streamline things in the factory and over the decades has put forward many ideas on machinery designs to Ross Rayner and Peter Taylor who would then go on to develop the machinery for the wider industry. Part of his innovative ways was looking at how to address efficiencies in transport. He was the first to send loads in to Sydney via the railway, loading the trailer at Orange, putting them on the train and picking up at the other end. Something we don’t see much of these days. Jim has been a big advocate for the timber frame and truss industry over the years, especially when it comes to large local projects including the new local public
hospital mental health wards and the Mission Australia Building. Both these buildings were designed for steel frames and it was only through much lobbying and hard work by Jim that they were able to convert these projects to timber jobs. Westruss currently employs anywhere between 55-70 people throughout the whole business. Jim has always been a big advocate to employ local people and keep as many people as possible in work. Over the past few years Orange has seen the demise of several large manufacturing businesses but Jim has worked tirelessly to ensure that Westruss can be a major employer in the Orange region. He is passionate about giving back to the Orange community, supporting local events such as Cancer Council Relay for Life, the Or-
AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER May 2019
ange Horse racing community, The Ronald McDonald House and The Orange City Football Club, for over 30 years. Even though Jim is semi-retired, he still has daily interaction with the business, and he ensured he left the business in great shape for the family to take over. His sons Leon and Malcolm plus grandchildren Nikita and Thomas all work in the business which is a true testament to the legacy Jim created. There is no criteria for the award. It was to reflect Clive’s values… someone who went out of their way to help people and businesses in the industry; someone who was honest and committed to seeing the national frame and truss industry innovate and grow and someone who has themselves, made a great commitment to our industry, so Jim is an extremely worthy recipient.
Clive Martella, FTMA Board Member and Director of MB Prefab Framing in Geelong, was down to earth, funny, straight up, hardworking and an honest person. Clive was an essential person within the FTMA Board. Not only was he one of the people who worked hard to get the National Association going but he remained a Director throughout his time on the board. Sadly, Clive passed away on 28 August 2016 at the young age of 62 after a short but courageous battle with cancer, leaving behind his beloved wife Ruth and three adult children, Catherine, Treina and Clive Jnr. Before Clive passed away, he was told the FTMA would be honouring him with the Clive Martella Service to Industry Award. Typical of Clive, though, he said he didn’t need it; he was so humble. However, the association was adamant there would be an award. The association wanted to continue his legacy by recognising people who shared his passion for the industry. The inaugural recipient of the Award presented in 2017 was Reg Owen a true leader in the industry just like the latest recipient.
www.timberbiz.com.au
MPBENGINEERING.COM.AU
VACUUM COATERS Smart solutions for smart timber people
Vacuum Coating advantages: Lower priming costs and increase profit margins Increased speed of painting/priming timber & MDF mouldings Repeatable finish on MDF and timber mouldings Superior finish of priming/painting on timbera & MDF boards Free up your workforce to complete other tasks Reduced waste of your paint and stain products
WE GUARANTEE QUALITY & INNOVATION
(03) 9702 7933
100% Australian Owned and Operated
FRAME AUSTRALIA
AKD continues to back Mid-Rise Advisory Program
Building code changes provide an opportunity to grow structural timber solutions market
A
KD is proud to be a Gold Sponsor of the Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA) Mid-Rise Advisory Program (MAP) pilot in Victoria which has now been running for almost three years. The company is also pleased to announce its intention to continue its co-funding support for the Mid-Rise Advisory Program, which is in planning to expand to a national co-funded industry program ongoing. The multimillion-dollar program has seen project solutions in timber mid-rise become the new norm in Australian construction and is a game changer for Australian generations to come in terms of how buildings will be constructed and then lived and worked in. Creating new markets for timber in commercial and high-rise buildings for structural timber is an ongoing process of technical research, supply chain coordination and consultative design, spec-
ification and costings, with the MAP team being pivotal in converting the technical solution into actual design and build solutions. And, as with any long-term market development approach, it fits well with AKD’s long term view to doing business and growing the market in Australia. This ongoing commitment is evidence of AKD’s approach in doing business. “We have been a significant financial sponsor in seeding the mid-rise market development effort for the past three years and we now view a continued partnership will yield ongoing market development and growth, especially in light weight timber prefabricated solutions for buildings up to eight-storeys in the coming three years,” said AKD’s CEO Shane Vicary. As a major national producer of light weight Australian grown and made plantation pine framing, AKD sees the
■■ Demonstration building at Holmesglen TAFE
8
changes in the building code as an opportunity to grow the market for structural timber solutions and also positively views the benefits of a professional timberbased field force that promotes timber solutions against non-timber traditional solutions such as concrete and steel. AKD’s announcement and FWPA’s program expansion aligns with the latest changes to the 2019 National Construction Code which increases the range of buildings, up to an effective height of 25m, in which fireprotected systems can be used. The new Classes add schools, retail premises, hospitals and aged care facilities to the previously approved multiresidential, hotels and office buildings. This builds further on the midrise building opportunity for timber since 2016 in Class 2, 3 and 5 buildings. The market development for timber solutions
in tall buildings has been an exciting space worldwide over the past few years and more recently, in Australia, with meeting Deemed-To-Satisfy provisions under the BCA for mid-rise. The combination of timber solutions means that designers and developers of these types of buildings can now really consider an environmentally friendlier and logistically simpler construction solution, saving time and money on the project, while creating a carbon storage footprint with the building that is enduring with the life of the timber products. There has been much hype around this market development especially with the new mass timber solutions using products such as CLT, but it surprises many designers and developers that proven and preferred light weight solid timber prefabricated solutions has a key role to play in this market development.
AKD’s solid structural pine framing is a great solution for brownfield developments, where storeys are being added to an existing footprint, for example commercial two-storey with residential going above. The first-hand experience of the professional mid-rise consultants over the past three years is that light weight timber frame solutions has a clear and compelling benefit for developments up to five-storeys, which accounts for a significant number of buildings in the new expanded Classes across the Australian built environment every year. It’s a great example of collaboration in the industry with industry partners co-funding other aspects of government research investment to ensure the commercialisation of new solutions with a better environmental footprint. Government funding, combined with industry member levies, have
paved the way in terms of a sustainable timber solution for mid-rise, particularly in the areas of fire, acoustic and durability performance for these types of mid-rise buildings. The 2016 and 2019 code changes have also reinvigorated builders and developers to seek out timber prefabricated solutions in the threestorey residential developments and AKD acknowledges its network of fabrication customers who are de-risking and growing their businesses by quoting and supplying these projects. AKD looks forward to continuing to support the MAP and our channel customers to grow our business in the midrise building segment. Part of this will be to use the demonstration building at Holmesglen TAFE in Melbourne where channel customers, designers, engineers and developers can see the mid-rise timber solution in reality.
■■ Official opening of the demonstration building at Holmesglen TAFE
AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER May 2019
www.timberbiz.com.au
Australian made with the quality and service you know.
AKD Softwoods. Reliable and Sustainable... naturally AKD Northern Sales
1800 253 763 sales.north@akd.com.au
AKD NSW Sales
132 321 sales.nsw@akd.com.au
www.akd.com.au AKD VIC & SA Sales 03 5231 9111 sales@akd.com.au
Frame Australia
Offsite prefabrication is the future solution
T
he International Mass Timber Conference held in Portland Oregon during March was the largest-ever gathering in the world of cross-laminated timber and other mass wood experts. The event attracted 1,600 attendees from 30 countries covering the spectrum of forestry, building design, development, prefabrication and construction, along with several delegates from Australia. With attendance of 500 at the first event 3 years ago, the organisers are now projecting an increase to 10,000 delegates by 2025 to
keep pace with the uptake of offsite construction systems. This phenomenal growth reflects the construction industry acceptance of offsite mass wood buildings and the rate of conversion from steel and concrete structures in a wide range of building types for residential and commercial developments. In addition, there has been an expansion in design capacity with architects and engineers developing a greater awareness of timber and wood requirements in the design of buildings. Not only is the construction industry expanding, the supply chain is also responding with new manufacturing plants for cross-laminated timber (CLT), nail-
laminated timber, glulam beams and panels, mass plywood panels, dowel-laminated timber, and laminated veneer lumber (LVL). A conference presentation that indicated how mass wood construction can address the housing crisis in UK was by Paul Williamson, Managing Director Modular Housing for Swan Housing, a London based notfor-profit Association formed in 1994 to provide high-quality and affordable homes to rent and buy. To solve the housing shortage in UK would require some 300,000 homes per year and using existing building methods would need some 1 million workers at a time when trades are in rapid decline.
To contribute to the solution Swan decided to set up a construction model moving from ‘craft’ to ‘process’ using Lean manufacturing principles to encourage improvements and reach a target of one house completed every day. By moving from a ‘one-off’ concept to a ‘system’ using DfMA (design for manufacture and assembly) they established a supply process that offers customers a selection of housing with 1.2 million individual options for each house, and an average build time of 16 weeks from order to occupancy. To enable this mass production approach the houses are fully manufactured in Cross Laminated Timber (CLT)
allowing digitally controlled production, with a resulting improvement in productivity of 60% which justifies the higher material cost. They indicated their next move is robotics in manufacturing to increase production rates and further improve efficiency. These trends will provide the opportunity of a strong future for mass wood prefabrication and construction in Australia but will need collaboration between the various sectors involved in the process of design, supply, manufacture and construction to ensure the outcomes are successful. The conference sessions program at Frame 2019 will include some of the world’s leading
experts along with local speakers to provide valuable insight into offsite construction topics, along with discussion forums, project panel sessions and selected topic workshops. Delegates will also learn what’s happening around the world and locally, to be up to date with the latest innovations and building developments emerging as the popularity of timber and wood buildings expands rapidly. Frame Australia titled ‘Timber Offsite Construction’ will be held on Monday and Tuesday 17-18 June at a new and bigger venue Crown Promenade Melbourne. For details and Early Bird registration visit the website www.frameaustralia.com
Why construction is ripe for disruption Courtesy of IWBC ‘Offsite News’ What the building industry needs is a change. Can an industry that is traditionally slow to adopt new technologies and materials pick up the pace quickly enough to provide the housing needed? There are many innovative new technologies like offsite construction that are already used by housing markets in other parts of the world. The looming housing shortage is creating the perfect conditions for disruptive innovation in the building industry. There are many reasons why the construction industry is reticent to change. From lagging building codes to a lack of market acceptance, there are many barriers which keep home builds on-site. If they can move off-site, home building can be automated, more consistent, resistant to weather interruptions with a
10
far more streamlined building process that could cut costs significantly. The investment in construction industry technology has increased, showing that the industry is ripe for change. With the technology in place to improve processes and save costs, it’s only a matter of time before developers see the value of offsite construction. The labour shortage presaged by the increase in demand coupled with a reduction in skilled workers has seen construction companies struggling to meet deadlines. There simply aren’t enough workers to bridge the gap. Millennials will be the first generation to earn less disposable income than their parents and they will be looking to cheaper entry-level homes as they enter the market. By automating the building process in factories, builders will be able to ensure speed, precision
AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER May 2019
and reduced build times. Millennial buyers are also more concerned about their carbon footprint. Offsite builds use less materials and transport as crew members aren’t travelling to the site every day. With less waste and less impact on the environment, prefab construction is more appealing to the younger home owners. Many are predicting that the tipping point that moves home construction out of the driveway and into the factory is almost here. The success of these methods can already be seen in other countries around the world. The construction industry has not changed much over the last four decades, but there is simply too much waste, too much environmental impact and too few workers to sustain current practices for much longer.
www.timberbiz.com.au
Stromlo Leisure Centre, Canberra, Australia (Credits: Cox Architecture, Kane Constructions)
Rubner Holzbau is the leading company in Italy and Europe in the construction of timber buildings and large Glulam and CLT structures. The use of Glulam and CLT ensures excellent structural, seismic and sustainable performances, and offers endless architectural designs and innovative potential. Our highly engineered and prefabricated structures enable fast production and quick assembly, as well as high energy saving standards. Unique in our industry, Rubner Holzbau provides a complete Turn-Key Service, from Production of its own Glulam and CLT to the complete Project Engineering of your Design, to the On-site Delivery anywhere in the world. As an added value, Rubner Holzbau can also provide the complete On-site Assembly of its timber structures, thanks to its crews of expert, long-time installers.
JOIN US IN OUR PASSION FOR WOOD
RUBNER HOLZBAU s.r.l. Via Alfred Ammon, 12 39042 Bressanone (BZ) - Italy +39 0472 822 666 holzbau.brixen@rubner.com www.rubner.com/holzbau In partnership with: THECA AUSTRALIA 17 The Concord 3083 Bundoora, VIC - Australia Mr. Paolo Aschieri - Mr. Adam Shears +61 481 707 561 - +61 417 317 866 paolo@theca.com.au - adam@theca.com.au www.theca.com.au
17-18 June 2019 Come and visit us at Booth 23
Frame Australia
Barangaroo’s second timber building reaches its peak
A
fter just seven months of construction, Daramu House, the second timber building at Barangaroo, has reached its top floor marking structural completion at 1 Sussex St. Daramu House, meaning ‘tree’ house in the Aboriginal Language of the Sydney district, has been constructed from around 1,750 pieces of timber. The building is made from approximately 2,500 cubic metres of cross laminated timber and 2,200 cubic metres of glulam (glue laminated timber), and will include a 130-kilowatt solar array integrated with a rooftop garden. Global shared workspace company WeWork will lease all six floors 12
of commercial space, providing approximately 2,000 members with high-quality office space. Lendlease’s three business segments of development, construction and funds management have collaborated to deliver Daramu House. A Lendlease managed entity, Daramu House Trust, is funding and will own the asset on completion in late-2019. The building sits beside International House Sydney – Australia’s first commercial building constructed from timber – and will include over 10,000 square metres of commercial space and approximately 680 square metres of new retail on the ground floor. “Daramu House is the last piece of the puzzle
for Barangaroo South’s commercial precinct, where we have created the CBD’s next generation of sustainable workplaces,” said Leanne Boyle, Executive General Manager, Barangaroo South, Lendlease. “The precinct is a one stop shop, with commercial, retail, residential, public and open space working together to create a place where people want to work, live and play. “When we work together to leverage our expertise across Lendlease, including development, construction, and investments, we can achieve great things. This building is another example of our integrated model in action. “We’re excited to be welcoming WeWork to
Barangaroo early next year. This workplace innovator joins a long list of companies now working in our precinct including Accenture, Origin Energy and PwC,” said Leanne. “We’re delighted to be alongside Lendlease shaping the precinct’s future identity by creating a place that activates and supports the future of work, life and play,” said Balder Tol, General Manager WeWork. “The structural completion of Daramu House is a significant milestone for WeWork in Australia. We can’t wait to add Barangaroo to our fast-growing Australian portfolio, and offer our member companies of all sectors and scales another location within which to flourish.
AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER May 2019
“We understand that a well-curated environment can have a very positive contribution, not only to productivity, but to personal wellbeing as well – from desks to offices and entire headquarters, we look forward to expanding our diverse and vibrant community to 1 Sussex St.” Research by Planet Ark shows increased use of wood has measurable physiological and psychological health benefits, with workers being less stressed and more productive, and generally happier and calmer in spaces that contain natural elements like wood. Preassembling parts of the timber provides safety, quality and speed of construction benefits. WeWork is a platform for creators, provid-
ing over 400,000 members around the world with space, community, and services through both physical and digital offerings. Founded in 2010 in New York City, WeWork currently has 425 physical locations in 100 cities and 27 countries around the world. WeWork currently has 1,000+ enterprise member companies (businesses with at least 1000 employees around the world), representing over 30 per cent of WeWork’s total membership. In Australia, WeWork has 10,000 members in fifteen open locations across Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, with new locations announced, including its first Perth location which will open in September 2019.
www.timberbiz.com.au
L I F T I N G I N N O VAT I O N Materials handling for the Frame, Truss and Timber Industry Whether you handle extreme lengths of engineered timber, palletised goods, engineered floor, wall and roof structural panels, Combilift has the space saving and safe solution.
Contact Details: Email: chris.littlewood@combilift.com Phone: 1300 552422
.com
Frame Australia
■■ 3D printing of timber composite panel in progress
3D printer produces advanced material FWPA launches WoodChat season two
R
esults from research conducted at the University of Sydney show that 3D printing technology can combine timber waste products and recycled plastics to transform them into a high-performance construction element. The Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA)-supported research is the focus of the latest episode of WoodChat, and being conducted by a team led by Professor Sandra Löschke, Director of the Architecture Design Research Group at the University of Sydney. In the season two launch episode of FW14
PA’s podcast series, Professor Löschke explained that she and her team set out to explore what 3D printing could offer both the construction and forestry industries that conventional technologies do not. The process of 3D printing involves a composite material being placed through a nozzle, and being applied layer by layer to a surface, before it hardens. Its use in the construction industry is growing rapidly, especially for the creation of concrete elements. However, these elements still largely rely on traditional construction processes, for example, the use of steel
reinforcement bars. “The aim has been to produce an element that is strong and aesthetically pleasing by varying the material composition during the printing process. We want it to be as close as possible to natural timber, both in terms of the percentage of timber used, and also in its look and feel,” Professor Löschke said. “We have developed a printing process that can gradually modify the material to allow for a wood-like pattern and texture that give the feel of timber. This is crucial for boosting the product’s marketability. “The ultimate dream
is to be able to build entire buildings and even cities using this technology. And when you consider that two-storey houses are already being 3D-printed in concrete, it is easy to imagine that we may be able to do the same thing, better and more sustainably, with a recycled timber composite,” Professor Löschke said. The interdisciplinary research team includes Professor Gwenaelle Proust and Higher Degree Research students John Mai, Yerong Huang and Jordan Girdis. This episode of WoodChat was the first in the new series, and followed topics from last year in-
AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER May 2019
cluding the increasing use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in forestry, environmental benefits associated with using timber in construction, and a genetic DNA testing system that can predict key commercial attributes of trees during the earliest stages of their lives. This episode will be followed throughout the year with topics such as how RFID tracking systems are being used in prefabricated timber construction, and some of the initiatives that are currently engaging and securing future industry leaders. The WoodChat series represents FWPA’s com-
■■ Professor Sandra Loschke
mitment to communicating industry news and innovations. Each episode in the series includes indepth conversations with experts on recent discoveries, innovations and initiatives.
www.timberbiz.com.au
Frame Australia
Biggest ever program announced for Timber Offsite Construction 2019
T
he program for the Timber Offsite Construction 2019 conference and exhibition promises to be the most impressive in the event’s 21- year history. The expanded line-up over the two days brings together the most prominent global and local experts discussing the latest technologies and most pressing topics for the mass wood sector. The event will take
place on 17 (Monday)-18 (Tuesday) June at Melbourne’s Crown Promenade. The increased interest in the sector has also led to the conference move to a new, larger venue comfortably accommodating the expected 400 attendees, a record for the event. Conference Director Kevin Ezard said the conference and exhibition had developed a strong reputation among building design and construction professionals. “Timber Offsite Construction is a national event with a global
www.timberbiz.com.au
forum. It is the only Australian event exclusively devoted to offsite timber construction and mass wood systems,” Mr Ezard said. Tuesday morning panel sessions will focus on several outstanding building projects utilising offsite timber construction systems, with key participants including developers, architects, engineers, builders, fabricators, and building materials suppliers. In addition to the impressive line-up, exhibitors from across the globe will display the latest products and sys-
tems for offsite timber construction and mass wood systems. Monday sessions and speakers: David Chandler OAM, Adjunct Professor, Centre for Smart Modern Construction at Western Sydney University - What will the Australian construction industry look like by 2030? Ralph Belperio, Built Environment Leader, Aurecon - How we will be constructing buildings in the future Duncan Mayes, EGM Innovation & Emerging Business, Timberlink Australia -
AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER May 2019
Wood products are the sustainable solution Natasha Carter, Director, Rider Levett Bucknall - Cost Engineering guide for timber construction systems Ola Svensson, Managing Director, and Ola Skoglund, General Manager Robotic division, Randek Sweden - Panelisation is the next leap forward in housing Karel Vinckier Managing Director, hsbcad Belgium - Software for the digital data pathway from design to manufacture Reinhold Klotz,
International Sales Manager, Hundegger Germany - Manufacturing technologies to improve prefabrication productivity Rob De Brincat, New Business Manager - Innovation, Atelier Projects - Critical steps for clients to benefit from offsite construction Paul Kremer, Marketing & Strategic Manager, XLam Australia - Why the ECI process is THE design and build solution Andrew Dunn, CEO, Timber Development Association - National summary of timber offsite building projects
15
FRAME AUSTRALIA
Wood is the ultimate renewable The IPCC recently issued its latest report with a stark warning about how long we have left to moderate CO2 emissions and to halt global warming. “It is no longer enough to reduce emissions, we need to start actively reducing the CO2 already in the atmosphere,” said David Rowlinson, Make It Wood Campaign Manager. “Planting more trees is the only realistic method we have of reducing atmospheric carbon but, in Australia and around the world, moves to encourage more forests and plantations are failing to generate anywhere near the levels required,” he added. “Furthermore, science tells us that trees are only really effective at carbon absorption during the growth stages. Once they mature, the wood needs to be harvested and new trees planted, supported by the active use of certification schemes like FSC and/or Responsible Wood (PEFC),” he said. In the built environment wood provides thee
16
significant environmental benefits. Firstly, wood is the only large-scale renewable building material currently available. Until recently, the tallest timber building in the world was a university residence building in Vancouver, Canada. It is 18 storeys or 53 metres tall, and incorporates 2,233 cubic metres of engineered timber in its structure. Calculations have shown that the volume of timber used would have been regrown in US and Canadian forests in a mere six minutes. Secondly, when wooden products are used in the construction of buildings, they provide long-term carbon storage – about half of the dry weight of wood is carbon, which is stored for as long as the building exists. The oldest timber building in the world is the Horyuji Temple in Japan, which has been storing timber since 710, over 1300 years! And thirdly, using wood significantly reduces the CO2 emissions that are produced when using
AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER May 2019
conventional materials, which have significantly higher levels of embodied energy. As a rule of thumb if we replace a cubic metre of a solid material like concrete with a cubic metre of timber, this will result in a reduction of approximately 1000Kg (1 tonne) of CO2 emissions from entering the atmosphere. Hence, the more we build using timber, the more carbon we can store, and the more emissions can be reduced, which in turn will create an increased demand for timber that will help drive reforestation. The built environment is the primary source of CO2 emissions in Australia and around the world. “It’s really important to both understand and decrease the embodied energy used in construction. Using more wood in construction undoubtedly has the potential to significantly reduce the impact of climate change,” David said.
www.timberbiz.com.au
FRAME AUSTRALIA
“Using more wood in construction undoubtedly has the potential to significantly reduce the impact of climate change” ■■ 25 King, Brisbane, is a great example of the many environmental benefits that mass timber construction brings to the built environment, with a 74% reduction in embodied carbon, 46% reduction in energy, 20% weight saving compared to concrete, and a construction period of just 15 months aided by offsite prefabrication. Design: Bates Smart and Lendlease Photography: Tom Roe
www.timberbiz.com.au
AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER May 2019
17
Australian TImber Design Awards
■■ Freycinet Lodge Coastal Pavilions by Liminal Architecture
Photo by Dianna Snape
20th Australian Timber Design Awards
Timber design and construction bursting with exceptional talent
T
he Australian Timber Design Awards is a national design competition created to promote and encourage outstanding timber design in the built environment professions. Established in 2000, the Awards are distinguished by a heritage of innovation and achievement. The aim of the Awards is to develop a timber design ethos by encouraging and showcasing outstanding timber design in a range of applications. A broad choice of entry categories demonstrates the flexibility of timber and allows projects to be judged against similar entries. The Australian Timber Design Awards is open to builders, de18
signers, architects, engineers, landscapers and anyone else involved in designing or building structures that feature timber. To recognise the younger people in our industry, a separate section of the residential category is available to students and entrants aged 30 or under.
Entry is now open for the 20th Australian Timber Design Awards. Entries close - 28 June Judging Period - July Peoples’ Choice Voting August to September Presentation Dinner mid-October in Melbourne Promoting timber design promotes the whole industry, and promoting timber design to the greater pub-
lic is an easier job than promoting forestry. Fortunately, over the past few years there has been such an upswing in timber use in buildings of any shape and size that it has become harder to pick the winners but it has also meant the winners have been exceptionally spectacular. When these awards were first presented in 2000 housing entries dominated the list with few commercial buildings, for the first time this year commercial buildings dominated and for the first time in 2018 there was a multiresidential category added. Last year the judging panel consisted of four judges with judging presided over by a timber industry member. This broad representation across professors ensures that winners are chosen that excel in all aspects of the design. This also ensures that winners use timber appropriately, expertly
and to enhance the timber industry, and timber design in general. From 69 entries, the judges were instructed to choose a handful of winners, no easy task with the amazing array of entries However, as they say, there can be only one winner and the winner in 2018 was Bunjil Place in Victoria design by Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp with structural engineers Taylor Thomson Whitting, fabricator Hess Timber and builder Multiplex Global. Bunjil Place is a new form of community and civic building used as a library, a performance theatre, a public gathering space, a place of exhibition, gallery and display. The entrance foyer houses an impressive Glulam timber grid shell that dominates and defines the central atrium. The use of wood defines a warm and innovative design emphasises the lightness of the roof through a fluid, organic
AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER May 2019
geometry while reinforcing the open and welcoming nature of the complex to reach out to the public open space. The architectural intent was for the timber grid shell to appear weightless as it touched the ground at two points, as a form of wings, protecting and sheltering the community. The central theme was the interpretation of the land in the culture of Wurundjeri, Bunurong and Boon Wurrung people, the traditional owners and inhabitants of this land. The two stories inspired the architects ‘The Meeting of Many Paths’ and ‘Bunjil’ the eagle. Bunjil Place. FMJT & TTW. Photography: John Gollings, Andrew Chung, Trevor Mein Another specialist category was Timber Panels with the award going to Freycinet Lodge Coastal Pavilions by Liminal Architecture. The inspiration for the architecture and interiors of the nine pavil-
ions is influenced by the unique coastal setting in Freycinet National Park. The siting and form-making take its cue from the fluidity and interplay of the coastal rock formations, while the materiality responds to context and place. The designer intended to be discreet and present a quiet response to its immediate context. Timber was selected as the most appropriate material for the structure and for the external and internal coverings. The pavilions reveal themselves on approach with charred Red Ironbark cladding forming a protective envelope, selected for its ember proofing, durable, natural and textural qualities. The interior walls are lined with Tasmanian Oak offcuts or differing thickness, and locally produced plywood was used for the floor and ceiling, bathing the interiors with the warmth from the Tasmanian timbers used. Photos by Dianna Snape
www.timberbiz.com.au
Flooring
The beauty of timber The art of underfoot excellence
W
hen building or renovating, the choice of flooring is numerous and with current environmental issues choosing timber has never been more important. The Australasian Timber Flooring Association (ATFA) have all the reasons as to why you should consider the beauty of timber. “By choosing timber floors, you are choosing a timeless and oneof-a-kind look, because no timber floor is completely the same,” ATFA CEO Randy Flierman said.
Other types of floors lose their appeal as trends and fads come and go, but timber floors are a timeless addition to any room and won’t go out of fashion any time soon. “Timber is a great addition to any home because not only do timber floors create a level of sophistication, they also help reduce carbon dioxide, which subsequently decreases climate change,” Flierman said. Not only does timber flooring sequester carbon dioxide and boost air quality through its
ability to moderate humidity levels, it has also been shown to improve your emotional and mental wellbeing. With an increased focus on mental and physical health, recent reports have found numerous health benefits of timber flooring, such as lowered stress levels and improved levels of people’s self-expression and emotional state. With Australia’s forest management being one of the best in the world, you can trust that by using timber floors sourced from local forests, your environmen-
tal impact will be marginal in contrast to other flooring choices. In an age where significant carbon footprints are rife, it is reassuring to know that a timber floor surface emits approximately five times less greenhouse gases than a ceramic floor. Not only do timber floors emit less greenhouse gases, but when they are maintained properly, it is regarded that a timber floor of standard thickness (19mm) has a service life of approximately 100 years. There are dif-
ferent types of grades of timber to consider when looking at the overall aesthetic of any area. Timber choices are many and there are varying features, such as gum veins, past borer activity, knots, checking, gum pockets and grain feature, these all can influence the character of the floor and its end product, which is not only part of the beauty, but also the uniqueness of timber. If you eventually choose to dispose of timber floors, the timber can be repurposed or if beyond salvage, you
can rest assured knowing that they breakdown naturally, compared to carpet, vinyl and tiles which do not. Your choice of flooring will play a crucial role in the overall aesthetic of your space, the wider environment, and also the level effort required to maintain them, so if you want the best option in all three areas, you should choose timber. For more information, to become a member or if you require any advice please call ATFA on 1300 361693, or visit www.floorchoices.com.au
READ YOUR
INDUSTRY NEWS ANYTIME, ANYWHERE SUBSCRIBE TODAY Visit timberbiz.com.au australasian
magazine
www.timberbiz.com.au
AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER May 2019
19
ASSOCIATIONS
Enterprise agreements in decline Brian Beecroft Chief Executive Officer TTIA
T
he latest report on agreement coverage from the Department of Jobs shows 45,000 fewer people covered by agreements, taking the total number of people covered to 1.15 million - the lowest since 2006. Average pay rises in new agreements fell from 3.2 per cent to 2.8 per cent per year between September and December 2018. The level of enterprise making continues to be low with only 924 agreements approved in the December quarter. A report from the Centre for Future Work released in December last year showed that the number of people in the private sector covered by
agreements at work had fallen by a third since 2013. Members are reminded TTIA has an Industrial Relations/Enterprise Agreement Unit that can assist Members through the agreement making process to final certification before the Fair Work Commission. If you require further information, please call the TTIA office on (02) 9264 0011.
Changes to union right of entry permits The Governor-General has made changes to the Fair Work Regulations to modernise the right of entry scheme that allows union officials to enter workplaces.
From 1 July 2019, the right of entry permits issued by the Fair Work Commission must include a photo and signature of the permit holder, along with any conditions on its use. The notice of entry forms that must be given to employers will also be required to clearly set out the rules that both union officials and employers must follow when rights of entry are being exercised. The Minister for Jobs and Industrial Relations, Kelly O’Dwyer MP, said the proposed changes were sensible, practical reforms that would make the right of entry framework clearer and less vulnerable to abuse. “These commonsense changes will make it easier for permit holders to carry their permits and exercise right of entry, while those on worksites will be able to appropriately verify the identity of a permit holder on their premises. “No longer will people be able to misrepresent their identity or falsely claim to be
authorised permit holders.” The changes to the notice of entry forms will ensure all parties are aware of their statutory rights and responsibilities and provide contact details for the appropriate regulator in the event of any queries, which will assist in reducing disputes over right of entry. The new permits and notice of entry forms will be used from 1 July 2019. Existing permit holders can continue to use their old permits, but from 1 October 2019 they will either have to obtain a new permit or present a governmentissued photo ID along with their old permit, when showing their permit to access a worksite. ATO updated list of STP providers Available products The tax office has released a detailed register of Single Touch Payroll products for the micro business space, including several no-cost options. The full list can be found on the ATO website.
Small business to get 3 month leeway on STP The ATO has announced that small businesses will be given a buffer period of three months to comply with the newly legislated extension of Single Touch Payroll to all businesses. The ATO commissioner has given his “personal guarantee” that the agency will adopt a flexible and reasonable approach in dealing with the transition to STP for employers with 19 or fewer employees. Recognising the limited time left to the start date of 1 July 2019, small businesses will be allowed to start reporting any time between 1 July and 30 September 2019. While the official start date will not change, the 30 September deadline has been chosen to give employers more time to make the transition to real-time digital reporting. Further, any small employer who requests additional time to start STP reporting will be granted a deferral, with exemptions for employers ex-
periencing hardship or those in areas with intermittent or no internet connection. There will also be no penalties for mistakes, missed or late reports for the first year. It is understood that many small businesses and other small employers do not currently use commercial payroll software and they will not be required to purchase such software to report under STP. The Commissioner reassured small business that the ATO’s approach to extending Single Touch Payroll will be flexible, reasonable and pragmatic. There will be further concessions to the micro business space, categorised as those with one to four employees, as they make up 60 per cent of approximately 750,000 employers in the small business population. As such, micro employers will be allowed to rely on a registered tax or BAS agent to report quarterly for the first two years, rather than each time payroll is run.
SUPPORTERS & SPONSORS
For information visit: 20
www.ttia.asn.au AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER May 2019
www.timberbiz.com.au
ASSOCIATIONS
■■ Tobias Partners – Gadens Lawyers
Fight climate change with timber veneer & wood products
T
he Timber Veneer Association started 2019 with a new logo and revamped website. Watch this space for developments – timberve-
By Peter Llewellyn Technical Representative, Timber Veneer Association of Australia neer.asn.au Meanwhile, specifiers and timber users concerned about climate change can do their bit to help by including timber veneers in their projects.
www.timberbiz.com.au
Surveys have shown that many Australians don’t realise that using wood (as opposed to other materials) is good for the environment. Using timber veneer and wood products is naturally better because they help with climate change in two very important ways. Firstly, growing trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store the carbon so ef-
ficiently that about half the dry weight of a tree is carbon. This carbon remains ‘locked up’ for the whole life of timber building products or furniture. It is released into the atmosphere again only when the wood decays or is burnt. Recent research shows that more than 95 per cent of the carbon in wood remains stored even after up to 30 years in a landfill. Secondly, the forest
AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER May 2019
and wood products industry is one of the most greenhouse-friendly sectors of the Australian economy. In fact, it is the only industry sector in Australia that stores more carbon dioxide than it releases into the atmosphere. Thus, increased use of timber veneer and wood products assists Australia in offsetting its overall greenhouse gas emissions. For these reasons
timber veneer and other wood products are amongst the most sustainable and environmentally sound materials on the planet. An easy way to combat climate change – use more timber veneer and wood! Add to this the fact that each cubic metre of log produces around 1,000 square metres of veneer and you have the ideal material to fight climate change. 21
ASSOCIATIONS
Merger driven by need for one strong industry voice of the negotiations required.
A
bid for “one strong voice” was behind the recent merger between the Furnishing Industry Association of Australia (FIAA) and the Cabinet Makers & Designers Association (CMDA) … now known as the Australian Cabinet & Furniture Association (ACFA) Dean Brakell, ACFA’s CEO, sat down for a question/answer session with Australasian Timber to explain everything about the move.
Explain the whole merger process, the whys and wherefores? The end goal was to form an association with a national focus, one-voice by industry for industry. Having the end in mind made all perceived issues and differences fade away as both organisations had the same goal. Different association models were debated, as was a change of name; it was all of six minutes to agree on 22
a name at a joint Board meeting, held during the AWISA show in Sydney, July, 2018.
When it was first mooted and why? Original discussions date back to 2015 between both organisations. The catalyst for the merger actually came from a Forestry dinner held at Parliament House in Canberra which was attended by the chairs of both FIAA and CMDA in 2017. A Sydney luncheon, organised by the AWISA Board, invited industry leaders to discuss the future of the industry. It was here the idea of a stronger, more relevant, national industry association germinated. All parties quickly realised they shared a common goal and the process of mapping out the beginnings of a joint organisation started immediately. The merger took 12 months to implement, an extraordinarily fast time given the complexities
When the wheels of motion were first put in place? A MOU was formulated and signed by both parties. A small contingent from each Board meet in Sydney, prior to Christmas 2017 to discuss the potential for a merge.
The drivers behind the move? A Sydney luncheon, organised by the AWISA Board in May 2017, invited industry leaders to discuss the future of the industry. It was here the idea of a stronger, more relevant, national industry association was born.
How you went about convincing members that such a move would be in the longterm best interests of all? The industry landscape in Australia sees a fragmented sector with many vested interests. ‘One voice’ resonated with members along with a financially sustainable business model so as to ensure the sector
can survive, prosper and prosecute an argument when required.
Some of the slight hiccups faced along the way? Communications to members had its challenges, to ensure that we advised everyone of the upcoming merge.. However, there has not been one complaint since the merger from any member. The final ‘Merge’ document required a few versions, however, that is to be expected.
A new pathway for the future? The new Board met in Melbourne recently and formulated a three-year strategic plan based on the following four pillarsNational Presence (membership growth); National Voice; Partnerships, Alliances and Mergers (corporate) Training and Support Vision; Building and promoting a stronger Australian cabinet and furniture industry AT: What the new association offersDB: Information on modern awards; em-
AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER May 2019
ployment/business contracts including residential joinery/kitchen contracts; workplace policies, checklists and fact sheets; unlimited calls to workplace advisors; trade training (currently offered in NSW, SA and ACT), National awards night, industry seminars and trade nights, industry webinars, quarterly newsletter, fortnightly news updates. Most importantly a personalised service with no automated calls and employees who collectively have extensive workplace and industry knowledge.
Your board members and also personnel (and their roles)? Fred White- President Glen Scott-Vice President Andrew Butt-Vice President Robyn Burns-Board member Matt Ford-Board member Dave Galea-Board member Peter Gill- Board member Diana Harding- Board member Jane Lindsay- Board member
Ron Pultar- Board member Monique Penton ((HR Manager), Skye Padas (HR Advisor), Fiona Joynes (Program Manager), Kristy Cole (Training Manager), Matthew Brady (Compliance CoOrdinator), and Mark Jones (National ISMAA & Projects Manager). Our administration team consists of six team members and our Training, Assessment and Mentor team consists of 12 team members and growing
Some of the first things that have been changed and readily accepted by members? Branding, new website, updated Home Building contracts, phone support.
Any Long term plans? Memberships growth throughout Australia, Accredited and nonaccredited training throughout Australia, Building capabilities of businesses and training the future trades people for a stronger Australian cabinet and furniture industry, harmonisation of Home Building Acts for the built-in environment
www.timberbiz.com.au
ASSOCIATIONS
MGA TMA SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS
Step 1: Select person as Administrator Step 2: Enter employees information
Modules include:
Complete their details
Step 3: Enrol in courses
Risk Assessment Traffic Management Induction Training and Competency Wood Dust Electrical Safety Emergency Management Return to Work Health Monitoring Plant Machinery and Equipment Housekeeping and Workplace Inspection Contractor Management Hazardous and Dangerous Substances Manual Handling And more. All available online
Assign courses individually or by course group
Step 4: Monitor Progress Notification of training completed
Step 5: Employee status System records training when completed
Step 6: Records Summary of employee training
The importance of safety & compliance By Ann Sanfey Membership Manager
MGA TMA
N
ever has it been more important to focus and review the need for compliance and safety in the workplace by instigating various training throughout the business. MGA TMA delivers training and compliance solutions specific to the needs of an independent timber businesses. All businesses have a legal obligation to ensure the health and safety of all staff and people who
visit their site. Courses are designed to provide the answers to how to administer the systems for effective workplace health and safety.
Induction Training and Competency As an example - An induction for all new employees in essential to ensure all workers and contractors have the skills and competencies to work in a manner that is safe and without risk to health. An employer is required by health and safety legislation in all jurisdictions to provide
Serving independent timber and
workers with: induction to your workplace and your specific health and safety procedure; training in how to safely carry out their tasks; ensure workers are competent to carry out the task they have been given ; assessment after inductions and training; keep records of all training; keep records of all high risk licences and renewal dates.
Eliminating health and safety risks MGA TMA through their Safety Management System provides a program and various
aspect of safety management in line with a timber workplace. The WHS Act and Regulations require those who have a duty to ensure health and safety, achieving it by eliminating the risks so far as is reasonably practical.
Manage Training System (MTS) Our Manage Training System (MTS) is an easy to use training program to assist in upskilling employees to maximise productivity and functionality of the business. MTS gives the opportunity to enhance the staff’s al-
Legal and HR
ready acquired skills and knowledge. The system is designed so the business can keep records of the training for reporting and staff performance purposes. It also allows the business to track the progress of staff training. MTS covers a large range of essential and advanced skill training in the workplace. With courses that cover legal obligations to meet compliance, time management, communication and people skills. Examples include: managing performance; coaching on the job; leadership & management; working
with others; and many more. Courses are accessible from any laptop; tablet or smartphone and allows an organisation to reach their people anywhere. Improve the skills of your people and the competitiveness of your business as well as engaging your workforce and achieving organisational goals. For more information contact – MGA TMA www.mgatma.com.au MGA Industry Training – 1800 888 479 Or Ann Sanfey – National Membership Manager – 0411 896 716
Timber Advisory Service
hardware businesses by providing valuable back of house services...
National Support Centre 1800 888 479 (Option 1) www.mgatma.com.au www.timberbiz.com.au
Training
Member Benefits
AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER May 2019
Advocacy
23
ASSOCIATIONS
■■ Scott Kendall of Dindas with Matt Armstrong of Australian Timber & Truss
Fabricator-designed systems highlight conference “We support you!”
By Kersten Gentle Executive Officer FTMA Australia
■■ Prydas Varun Bharti with Fred & Julie McDonald from Beaudesert Frame & Truss
■■ L-R: Susanne Bransgrove (Liquid Gold Consulting), FTMA Board Member Jennifer Dornan (Wingham Frames & Truss), Eileen Newbury (WoodSolutions) and Christine Briggs (AKD Softwoods)
■■ FTMA Board Member Brett McKay of McKay Timbers (Tas) with Warwick Porter of Multinail Machinery
24
F
ollowing the 2017 National Conference, there was no way I could expect the 2019 event to be so much bigger and better, yet it was! Instead of 135 delegates, which is the norm for FTMA National Conferences, we had more than 220 delegates for the 2019 event which was held at the spectacular RACV Royal Pines on the Gold Coast. The event kicked off with the Red Activities Day where delegates participated in Jet Ski Safari, Tree Top Challenge or the traditional Golf before the IceBreaker which was carnival theme, with plenty of games, drinks and food. The weather was atrocious for us southerners with high humidity but all managed to have a great time with one of the most popular events being the Meyer Timber Sports and the Giant Jenga Challenge where two fabricators, Brendan & Michael of North West Frame & Truss, managed to beat two engineers to take out the inaugural Challenge. The National Conference itself was held on the Tuesday and started with registrations amongst the 27 Trade Exhibitors. These exhibitors are our annual sponsors with a few additional conference sponsors added in
and there is no doubt without their support we couldn’t have kept the prices low and provided such a quality event. So thank you to the following sponsors for their continued support: Gold: MiTek, Multinail & Pryda Silver: AB Phillips, Borg Manufacturing, Meyer Timber, Tilling Timber, Timberlink and Vekta Automation Bronze: Daw Trading, AKD Softwood, Choice Energy, CombiLift, Dindas Australia, First Super, LP Building Products, Hyne Timber, Hundegger, Independent Hardware Group, McCormack Hardwood Sales, OneFortyOne Wood Products, Road Pods, Simpson StrongTie, StoraEnso, TuffPlans, Vida and Wesbeam
Conference: ForestWorks, TimberTrader News and WoodSolutions. There were many highlights at the conference for me, especially from fabricators who have developed products to help their sector. This included Joe Hackett from Complete Frames who created Des Edge Systems, a product born from frustration when Joe was supplying prefabricated wall frames, floor trusses and roof trusses for a 20 unit project where he was held
AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER May 2019
up due to a third party not being able to provide the right fall protection at the right time. Our sector needs to continue to increase our services, to increase the money that goes in to your pocket and the Des Edge Systems is something that all fabricators can promote, use and make money from. This is still in the early days so visit https:// www.desedgesystem. com.au/ and register to get more information on how you can increase your services as a fabricator. Paul Harazim & Daniel Ramsden of Mass Products presented on the Road Pod systems which I have raved plenty about over the past few months. Again, one of the best part of this system is the fact, like the Des Edge Systems, it was initially designed by a fabricator. I say designed in a very loose term as the design drawing, which is included in the presentation was very basic, but it was enough to get Mass Products to understand what was needed. I believe these systems will revolutionise the transport within our sector and their catch phrase of safe, efficient and smart transport tools is spot on. For further information and access to the video’s shown during the presentation please contact Paul Harazim 0423 420 136 or via email at paulh@ massproducts.com.au The whole conference program flowed freely and it was so reassuring to hear that all sessions were of interest and some even claimed it was the best conference they had ever attended in their 30 years in the timber industry.
With the conference over it was down to the FTMA National Conference Dinner where the theme was white and delegates delivered. We took advantage of the large crowd to raise funds for Tour de Cure and in the end we raised over $6300 which was an awesome effort. One of the most emotional parts of the conference for me was the presentation of the Clive Martella Service to Industry Award to Jim Cheney. What a beautiful thing to be part of with his family present. To be on stage with Jim and see his peers give him a spontaneous standing ovation was simply overwhelming. Australasian Timber will cover this story in another section of the magazine as it truly deserves full recognition of such a special moment and honour for Jim. Finally, I would like to once again thank my husband Scott and daughter Nikita for their unbelievable work in the lead up to and during the conference. There is no way this event would happen without their amazing work and support and I think it reflects exactly who FTMA Australia is, a family Association.
Worth noting This year’s FTMA Conference had a huge female representation, not only as delegates but nearly half the speakers were brilliant, successful women ready to share their stories and help our industry grow with many delegates commenting on how refreshing it was to see so many female presenters, not based on gender, but based on ability!
www.timberbiz.com.au
ASSOCIATIONS FRAME & TRUSS MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA
FTMA Australia is an independent, national organisation representing fabricators of and suppliers to the timber prefabricated truss and wall frame industry in all Australian states & territories providing a unified voice, to protect and advance our mult-billion dollar industry.
■■ Randall Davis of Virginia Building Supplies with Nev Smith of Dynamic Timbers
■■ Jeff Stratford of Pryda with Michael Read from Keith Timber & Hardware
■■ Ed Serrano of Vekta Automation with Eric Martin of Henderson Timbers NZ
■■ Brian Beecroft of TTIA with Jim Cheney of Westruss
■■ L-R: Three Wise Men of the FTMA Board Arthur Potter (Universal Trusses), Andrew Nguyen (Timbertruss Solutions) and Aaron Hillman (Trusscorp)
■■ L-R: Russell White (Structerre Engineering) with FTMA Chair Jamie Dahlsen (Dahlsens Building Centres)
■■ Kent Powell of Meyer Timber presenting Brendan Summerfield & Michael Dormer with the Inaugural FTMA Meyer Timber Jenga Challenge trophy
■■ Doug Maxwell (MB Prefab) with Peter Ward & Dean Urwin (Drouin West Timber & Truss)
FTMA Australia thanks our dedicated supporters and encourages you to support those who support your industry
GOLD SPONSORS
SILVER SPONSORS
BRONZE SPONSORS
COMBi iFT
L I F T I N G I N N O VAT I O N
Australasia
For a full list of the conditions of membership and a downloadable application form visit: www.ftmaaustralia.com.au www.timberbiz.com.au
AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER May 2019
25
Going National
Timberlink Green has moved to DAR nationwide
B
uilders and home owners have been saying they want a smooth, modern finish to their outdoor timber and now it’s here. Timberlink Green is moving to DAR (dressed all round) nationwide. Timberlink Green has always been the premium outdoor choice, it is the only H3 treated pine with visual grading override in addition to the standard machine grading, ensuring your timber is appealing to the eye as well as passing the required strength grading tests. Timberlink’s new low pigment die formula also allows for a more natural looking piece of timber with a consistent and light colour that can eas-
26
ily be stained, painted or left natural. “Don’t worry, we promise it’s still treated, and you will be able to tell, the green just won’t be as strong,” said Dr Trevor Innes - General Manager Technical & Sustainability. There is nothing more important in a piece of timber than it being straight. LOSP treatment keeps timber straighter in the racks by protecting it from the moisture changes that can affect a natural product like timber. DAR timber is also cheaper and easier to paint, as less paint is absorbed in than in the ridges of rougher header. Looks good – for a smooth modern finish with a lighter green pigment
Smells good – with low odour LOSP Stays straight – LOPS treated so it stays straighter for longer Cheaper and easier to paint and stain “The transition will take place over the coming weeks across Victoria, NSW and Tasmania. If you want to be part of the Timberlink Green modern revolution, call us today on 1800 088 135,he said Low odour LOSP - an Australian innovation “Timberlink Green really is a great story of Australian innovation. The world’s first Low Odour LOSP, created right here and first used in our Bell Bay mill in Tasmania in 2015. Timberlink’s fantastic example of timber enhance-
ment innovation has seen company’s try to copy it around the world since, but Timberlink’s formula is still the original, best and proven preferred LOSP treatment of treated pine in Australia,” said Dr Dr Innes. What is the difference between Microline/ Rougher Header and DAR? Dressed All Round (DAR) timber is finished in the mill to feel smooth to touch the whole way down. Microline or Rougher Header on the other hand has ridges carved down the length of the outside of timber. Why would someone cut ridges into smooth timber? There are a few reasons for the advent of rougher header timber.
AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER May 2019
One of them is low quality logs producing low quality timber. Microline hides visual imperfections in the timber better, and so those with lower quality timber who have no vidual override as Timberlink does will be more inclined to stick with Microline. Another reason for the promulgation of rougher header timber in the early 20th century was tariff on any timber bought in and not modified in Australia. To avoid the tariff some companies began converting dressed timber to rougher header. States such as NSW, Tasmania and Victoria saw rougher header become the standard finish over the years and builders started to expect it. Many myths built up
over that time around the reasons for rougher header or DAR being used and this was passed down from to apprentice after apprentice and there seemed to be little reason to change until now. 2019 sees a new standard of finishes expected in timber, with sleek modern designs and CLT and LVL coming together to give home owners the option to use natural, sustainable products that absorb CO2 to create their dream outdoor entertainment area. “Timberlink Green in DAR – looks good, smells great and stays straight. It really is the premium option for outdoor treated pine,” he said.
www.timberbiz.com.au
Timberlink ÂŽ Green is now Dressed to Impress for a smooth, modern finish Looks good, smells good, stays straight
timberlinkaustralia.com.au
ÂŽ
timberlinkaustralia.com.au
demands