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AFPA joins the NFF page 6
More women in leading business page 12 roles
Data collection tips for foresters page 19
“Industry needs more people with right skills and attitudes”
F
ORMER AUSTRALIAN Contractors Association boss Colin McCulloch is project manager of a new training hub to bring skilled workers into the plantation and wood sector. The Tasmanian Government provided $150,000 in seed-funding for the forestry training hub, ARBRE, which is being matched by businesses including Forico, Timberland, Norske Skog, IFarm and Elphinstone Engineering. A board of industry leaders has also been appointed and ongoing costs will be funded by industry and with income from training programs. Colin said Tasmania’s wood and forestry industry had changed and it needed more people equipped with the right skills and attitudes than had been required in the past. “The ownership of the forests is completely different to what it was five or 10 years ago. “We’re very much owned by investment-based
companies, most of those being international. “Expectations around safety and training seem to be a little bit higher. “And of course they’ve got to perform to standards set by certification programs,” Colin said.. He said the hub would cater to former and existing forestry workers as well as new entrants. The ARBRE Hub will be based at Invermay and will utilise existing industry assets including land, buildings and machinery to give real world handson training. The model is self-funding, with key industry stakeholders to fund management and the ongoing operation, with operating costs to be funded through industry sponsors and operating income from training. The Tasmanian Government grant will come from remaining funds in the Tasmanian Regional Sawmiller Structural Adjustment Grants Program.
¢ Colin McCulloch.
Ministerial change sees forests and timber overlooked again SEVERAL FORESTRY industry leaders have expressed total disappointment that a full Minister for Forestry was not reinstated in the latest Ministry reshuffle. Pat Groenhout (Managing Director of forestry company P F Olsen) said “we would certainly warmly welcome the Prime Minister’s reconsideration of a full portfolio for forestry. “It’s always disappointing when you feel like your sector isn’t getting the key recognition it deserves as a key part of the economy, particularly in regional Australia.” New Forests, CEO David Brand was also supportive of industry calls for a dedicated Minister for Forestry, which was abolished a
couple of years ago. “It would be beneficial, because really when you think to the future a lot of what the world is evolving to is kind of a bioeconomy, where we’re substituting oil and coal and other fossil fuel based systems for more renewable materials and energy systems so forestry has an expanding role to play in the economy and Australia could be a world leader in that,” he said. Ross Hampton, Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) said the forestry and forest industries contributed more than $21 billion to the economy and employ, across the full value chain, more than 120,000 Australians. “The sector, like the rest of
agriculture, is one of the big bets for growth and export income for Australia. In a carbon constrained global economy placing a premium on renewable resources, the products of our sustainable forestry operations in Australia have the potential to play a far greater role. “A dedicated Minister would deliver the focus and elevation that would help us ensure this vision for growth and productivity, especially in rural and regional Australia, is realised,” said Mr Hampton. As a result of the Federal Ministerial changes, Senator Richard Colbeck, who formerly represented forestry, was promoted to assistant Minister for Tourism and International Education. There was unanimous backing
for the work Senator Colbeck had done representing the industry. In one of his last messages before taking up his tourism role, Senator Colbeck said Australia’s fishing and forestry industries continued to recover under a Coalition Government and had seen continued growth over the past three years. “Forestry products have continued to grow, with their value forecast to reach nearly $2 billion in 2015–16, a 22% rise in value since 2011–12. “The value of our forest products and value added exports are on the rise, reaching nearly $2.8 billion in 2014–15. This is a more than 21% increase since 2009–10 and reflects strong international demand for our sustainably harvested products.”
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In the news
Safety ... it really is everyone’s business! Forestry organisations unite for a successful safety forum roadshow
A
ROADSHOW of safety forums in regional Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia have highlighted the importance of work health and safety practices in our industry. The four forums looked at the implications of poor WHS practices and discussed current initiatives under way in Australia and New Zealand to support safe practice standards in our industry. The forums attracted large numbers (almost 500 people in total!), with approximately 165 attending the forum in Mount Gambier, 80 in Portland, 140 in Albany and 100 in Manjimup. “It was very satisfying to be part of a collaboration of organisations who worked together to organise the forums,” said Michael Hartman, CEO of ForestWorks. The collaboration involved Australian Bluegum Plantations (who took a lead role in the exercise), PF Olsen, Green Triangle Forest Products, Forestry SA, HVP Plantations, One Forty One Plantations, Timberlands Pacific, TFS Corporation, WAPRES, Landmark, Albany Plantation Forest Company of Australia, Forest Products Commission Western Australia, The Government of Western Australia, Macquarie and Bunbury Fibre Plantations. ForestWorks was pleased to be one of four presenters which also included presentations by Wiremu (Lee) and Marsella Edmonds from Tuakiri Ltd in New Zealand; David Bennett, Manager Forest Systems at PF Olsen Australia; and Dr Luke Mirowski, Research Fellow from the University of Tasmania. Michael Hartman, Lesia Clark and Michelle Ingley-Smith featured in the ForestWorks
presentation that focused on the FOLS orange card certification assurance program. FOLS is now available across the industry for use by forest operators, the forestry businesses that employ them and the forest managers that engage the forestry businesses. It provides transparency for skills gained and held and hence protects workers and their businesses from some of the risk associated with activities in our supply chain. Wiremu (Lee) and Marsella Edmonds’ delivered a very powerful message in regard to the importance of leadership in WHS and a proactive safety culture in helping to ensure all workers returned home safely each day. They drew on their personal experience of losing their son to an accident in a New Zealand forest to discuss the implications of failing to consider a range of issues associated with health and safety in the community and the industry. David Bennett discussed safety management systems for reducing risk and improving compliance and the “Five Fatal Factors” that contribute to the risk of injury in our industry. Dr Luke Mirowski talked about driver and operator fatigue management, demonstrating a new app to help manage fatigue. Michael said workplace health and safety was of critical importance to industry. He said ForestWorks was committed to supporting industry in working together and using systems to better meet safety requirements and developing their skills and capabilities in this area. “The FOLS skills certification assurance program helps to ensure individual workers are
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qualified to undertake their work activities, and also hold current skills i.e. they regularly practice the capabilities listed on their FOLs card. “An employee who holds an orange FOLS Card is an employee who has not only undertaken the appropriate nationally accredited training; they are an employee who can demonstrate that that they are currently working in the industry and have kept their skills up-to-date. “We all know that work practices and environments are constantly changing. The FOLS system understands the importance of workers staying up-to-date with their work practices; this is why a FOLS Card is not only a list of the qualifications or units of competency a worker has undertaken - which they may have achieved quite a few years ago. A FOLS Card lists all the skilled activities a worker is qualified to do and is also well practiced to do,” said Michael. The Log Haulage Manual was also discussed as part of ForestWorks presentation. The manual is a safety initiative driven by industry and supported by ForestWorks. It details safety standards and industry practices for load restraint; loading and unloading trucks; transporting forestry logs and produce. It also supports the training delivery of Forestry Log Truck Driver and Forestry Produce Truck Driver skill sets and units of competency. “A new learning activity to support haulage operators and contractors using the information in the current Log Haulage Manual has also just become available on the ForestWorks website, under Workplace Learning Tools,” said Michael.
I n c o r p o r a t i n g A U S T R A L A S I A N F O R E S T L O G G E R & S AW M I L L E R
November 2015 Issue 7 Vol. 24 Features In The News 3-16 Bio 17 Conferences 18-22 Field Days 23-24 Forwarders 26-30 Classifieds 34-35
Focus on Brent Apthorp ... the man behind the scenes at the highly successful TECH series of conferences and events. Page 20
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November 2015
3
In the news
In Brief
KIPT back on track once more KANGAROO ISLAND Plantations Timbers has received notification that its application to the Environment Protection Agency of South Australia for the reinstatement of a licence to operate a timber preservation facility has been granted. The licence enables the company to treat pine logs derived from its thinning activities with CCA or creosote to produce peeled cylindrical fence posts and poles. These operations will take place at the company’s timber mill located near Parndana on Kangaroo Island, using existing equipment, and will be undertaken by a subcontractor, who will harvest and purchase the timber and rent the necessary equipment from the company. Tassie timber boosting confidence A boost in confidence among northern Tasmanian businesses has been attributed to the plantation forestry and tourism industries, according to the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TCCI) in its quarterly Survey of Business Expectations. Businesses in the northern region joined those in the south in showing confidence in Tasmania’s economy. It was one of the first big spikes in business confidence in the north-east since the demise of Gunns in 2012. New bid to strip assets FORMER Gunns boss John Gay will return to court next month as authorities renew a bid to strip him of his assets. The Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions is pursuing Gay in a proceeds of crime action stemming from his insider trading in 2009. He was convicted of insider trading in 2013 after he pleaded guilty to selling about $3 million worth of Gunns shares while privy to market sensitive information. At the time he was the timber giant’s managing director. In a sentence widely criticised for its perceived leniency, Gay was fined $50,000 and banned from acting as a company director for five years. The ban was later relaxed to allow him to run a family company. 4
Reinforcing leadership in forestry and land management
O
NE OF the oldest forestry related organisations in Australia is changing tac to ensure it remains at the forefront of its game. The Institute of Foresters of Australia has established a new skills-based Board of Directors and opted for a raft of initiatives that include support for indigenous forest management, forest fire management, carbon forestry addressing climate change, forest management assistance to Asian Pacific nations, the integration of forestry and agriculture and collaboration with other international professional forestry bodies. The Institute is celebrating its 80th year this year and, according to National President Rob de Fégely, there was a determination to enhance its position as the independent voice of forest science and land management and was growing its membership base to support this. Rob said the first initiative to be pursued was ‘Forestry without Borders’, providing assistance to countries in the Asia Pacific region. “This is based on the Institute’s view that sound forest management transcends national borders. “Our April conference supported and endorsed the work of Foresters Without Borders and the first project is to assist Vanuatu Forestry and the Vanuatu community. “This project is raising money for the repairs and reconstruction of buildings and nurseries and will provide nursery materials to help growers produce additional trees to reforest areas damaged by the major cyclone that hit the
¢ Hans Drielsma.
¢ Bob Gordon.
island nation in March. “This, with other professional assistance, will help Vanuatu in its quest to become self-sufficient in agriculture and forestry.” Rob said the funding would enable the Department of Forests and members of the Vanuatu Foresters’ Association to re-build and support growers whose livelihoods had been affected by the cyclone. He said this was just one example of how the Institute and its members could contribute to effective forestry and forest land management. “The Institute of Foresters of Australia is committed to the principles of responsible and sustainable forest management and the processes and
practices that translate these principles into real outcomes. “The Institute is the expert and acknowledged voice of reason on forest issues and our position is that for the Australia’s forests to thrive, the needs of people, the economy and the environment must be balanced,” he said. The new Board of Directors is: Rob de Fégely President Bob Gordon Director and Acting Chief Executive Officer Stuart Davey Director Lachlan McCaw Director Neil Byron Director Hans Drielsma Director Hilary Smith Director
Multi-media campaign to restart plantations THE AUSTRALIAN Forest Products Association (AFPA) has launched a multi-media campaign to bring into focus the plantations crisis facing the national forest products industry. The first salvo in the campaign is a YouTube video. This video explains that - in a world in which population growth is rapidly outstripping available resources - the globe must turn increasingly to those resources which are truly green and renewable – and that means forestry. “The world needs much more, not less, of this sustainable, renewable and truly green resource. And it needs more of it from Australia,” AFPA Chief Executive Officer Ross Hampton said. AFPA is also placing advertisements in regional newspapers in key plantation areas such as the Green Triangle in South Australia and Victoria, central tablelands and southern NSW, south east Queensland, and southwest WA. “Softwood and hardwood plantations provide more than 80% of the wood fibre and timber for our national forest product industries. However, investment in new plantations in Australia has effectively come to a standstill. “Although we have just experienced a record boom in construction, much of the growth has been filled by sawn softwood from as far afield as Europe. This is, in part, because we aren’t providing sufficient plantation resource in this country for our domestic sawmills,” he said. AFPA will be shortly releasing a comprehensive new policy solution to this crisis.” Australian Forests & Timber News
November 2015
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In the news
Australian Forest Products join the NFF
T
HE NATIONAL Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has welcomed the Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) as its newest commodity member. NFF CEO Simon Talbot said AFPA’s addition further enhances the NFF’s strength as the united voice for the nation’s primary production sector. “The NFF exists to provide a single, strong voice for primary production in national policydevelopment, and to represent those businesses on the national stage. Today we are pleased to broaden our membership base to take in forestry – an important part of the primary production picture,” Talbot said. “Australian forestry has a very positive story to tell, and we look forward to working with AFPA on issues of shared importance, including management of the precious resources on which we both rely and increasing market access for our high-quality products. “AFPA joins 29 NFF members at the decision-
making table, bringing their interests forward for debate at the highest level and supporting the development of effective policy for our primary industries. We are excited to welcome AFPA into the NFF Family,” Talbot said. AFPA is the national peak industry body representing the timber growing, sawmilling, other wood processing, and pulp and paper industries, including both plantations and naturally regrowing forests. “AFPA works to ensure that we have the right policy settings and a durable strategy to enable this sustainable, environmentally-friendly industry to grow to its maximum potential,” AFPA CEO Ross Hampton said. “The industry currently contributes about $20 billion to the economy and provides employment for more than 120,000 Australians (when we include downstream users of timber such as truss and frame manufacturers). These jobs are often outside our capital cities, making the forest, wood
¢ Ross Hampton (AFPA CEO) and NFF CEO Simon Talbot.
and paper products industry one of the backbones of rural and regional Australia. “Australia’s primary production industries share many mutual goals: including the responsibility that comes with being stewards of the Australian landscape. We look forward to supporting the rest of the NFF in our shared determination to ensure that the broader Australian community shares pride in the way our primary industries care for our precious natural resources,” said Hampton.
Innovation must be of benefit to all Submissions called for updated Forest Management Plans
INNOVATION IN forestry needs to ensure that it benefits humankind, and we need to address unintended consequences. That was the opinion expressed by Ben Gunneberg, CEO of PEFC International, during the14th World Forestry Congress in Durban, South Africa. “Innovation may offer significant benefits in improving the efficiency of plantations, but it is important to assess in how far this innovation helps us promoting and protecting natural forests, and more importantly, helps us address the drivers to deforestation,” Gunneberg said, responding to a keynote speech about ‘forest biotechnology for sustainable intensification of forest land use’ at the dialogue about “Growing better trees for the needs of humankind”. “If increased plantation efficiency devalues natural forests and negatively impacts on people who rely on sustainable forest management for their livelihoods, what have we gained?” Gunneberg cautioned. “What is the impact of biotechnology on communityforest owners, what is its impact on our ability to utilise our forest resources not only for the environmental benefits that they offer, but also for their potential to lift people out of poverty? “If biotechnology does not help us address the drivers for deforestation, is there a risk of unintended consequences down the road, potentially leading to increased deforestation as less productive forests with decreasing financial returns get converted to more profitable alternative land uses?” Gunneberg stressed the need to consider biotechnology in a holistic manner, and increase innovation in all areas: Can we further improve the management of the working forests that we have and obtain more resources from them in a sustainable manner? In how far can agro-forestry and 6
¢ Ben Gunneberg, CEO of PEFC International.
trees outside forests better contribute to resource supply and assist in creating sustainable livelihoods? Can we use the forest resources that we have more efficiently, not only in terms of wood fibre, but also in terms of non-wood forest products (NWFP)? Can we reduce our consumption as a society as a whole? “At its core, sustainable forest management is about sustainable livelihoods. Innovation must demonstrate that it contributes to all three pillars of sustainability and stands the test of time.” Australian Forests & Timber News
FORESTRY CORPORATION of NSW is inviting submissions on its updated Forest Management Plans for softwood plantations and coastal hardwood forests. Forestry Corporation’s Information Systems and Frameworks Manager, Morgan Roche, said the updated plans provided a strategic overview of the management of State forests in NSW. “We invite stakeholders to provide feedback on these draft plans which describe how we sustainably manage the forests to provide for the continued health of forest ecosystems and biodiversity while responding to the community’s needs for timber and access to the forests for recreation,” Mr Roche said. “Managing more than two million hectares of forests and contributing 14% of all timber produced in Australia each year, Forestry Corporation is a major force in the state’s forest and wood products industries which employs 22,000 people and adds an estimated $2.4 billion to the economy annually. “The plans summarise the systematic approach Forestry Corporation takes to sustainable forest management, outline the legal and regulatory framework in which we operate, and demonstrate our commitment to maintaining Australian Forestry Standard certification. “We have updated the former Ecologically Sustainable Forest Management plans which were developed in the early 2000s as a result of the Forest Agreement. “The updated plans meet the Forestry Act 2012 requirement for the preparation of Forest Management Plans. They do not propose any substantial changes in terms of the conduct of forest activities or the impact of activities on the environment and local communities and describe Forestry Corporation’s current sustainable forest management practices. “All submissions received will be considered as the plans are finalised for adoption by the corporation.” The draft Forest Management Plans are available on the Forestry Corporation website at www.forestrycorporation. com.au Submissions are invited up to close of business on Friday, 6 November 2015. Submissions can be made online via the corporation’s website, by email to info@fcnsw.com. au or in writing to FMP update, Forestry Corporation of NSW, PO Box 100, Beecroft NSW 2119. November 2015
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In the news
Trust’s major investment bodes well for future “Our community told us what we all know - the key economic issues facing our region are job creation and the attraction of new business and investment.”
N
EW ZEALAND’S Eastland Community Trust has recently made what it describes as the biggest single investment decision in its history; approving a $7.4million purchase of the Prime Sawmill. The mill, which was mothballed by WPI back in 2011, occupies 22.32 hectares at Matawhero just south of Gisborne. Approximately 10ha contains a modern, fully operational sawmill. It includes a green mill, capable of processing 500 cubic metres of timber in 10 hours, and a dry mill which dresses timber for market. The facility also includes an export shed and facilities for log storage, debarking, cutting, kiln drying, processing, dry storage and dispatching via rail. A further 3.4 hectares between the railway and the road has been planted in pinus radiata, while seven hectares has been leased for annual cropping. ECT chairman Richard Brooking says the purchase demonstrates the Trust’s absolute commitment to improving the economic outlook of the region and says the Trust is excited about the transformational potential of this new venture. “We are looking at a project that has the potential to create 120 jobs onsite, 300 jobs offsite and inject $6.7million in to the local economy within three years. In the short-term, we should see the creation of 50 jobs and the injection of around $1million into the
local economy via site works,” he says. Brooking said market research demonstrated that the time was right to invest in the site. The forestry and forestry services sector is important for Gisborne, with logging still rating amongst the fastest growing producing sector in the past three years. “Key to this growth is our privately owned stock of wood, which is significantly higher than other regions in New Zealand. We have a substantial volume of uncommitted, clearpruned, good quality, quick-grow logs close to the processing site. “Tree rotations are anywhere from 23 to 28 years and we have been waiting for the right raw product to grow. It’s ready and so are we.” ECT has undergone a robust due diligence process requiring risk analysis, economic and fiscal impact assessment, the creation of reasonable development assumptions, and a review of current information on the overall processing market and trends. Included in this was the scoping of demand for tenancy, which garnered immediate results. “We already have a number of interested parties looking to commit to long-term tenancies. Those parties are excited by the project and the opportunities this will open up for our region,” he says. The Prime Sawmill purchase now sees ECT taking an active leadership role in economic development, a space, Brooking says, is consistent
with community expectations and the strategic objectives of the Trust. “One of the key messages we received from our community last year was that we must take an active leadership role in economic development. “Our community told us what we all know - the key economic issues facing our region are job creation and the attraction of new business and investment. “According to that same data, our community overwhelmingly felt the most important priority for ECT is to undertake projects that create jobs.” Brooking says economic development projects have the potential to carry risk and uncertainty. At times, the level of risk is one reason why
projects need to be incentivised by suitably resourced organisations such as Eastland Community Trust. But he is quick to put the investment into perspective. “We have been making investments of a similar scale, but more often in the community assets distributions. Our contributions to the Tairawhiti Navigations Project and the War Memorial Theatre upgrade combined totalled $8million. Brooking is also quick to recognise the critical involvement of Activate Tairawhiti, which was instrumental in the initial negotiations. He says their early involvement demonstrates Activate Tairawhit’s capacity to create change.
Timberland investment under microscope LEADERS IN investment, business, and conservation will come together to discuss key issues in timberland investment in light of future outlooks, emerging technologies, portfolio allocation and macroenvironmental factors, and the rise of conservation finance and the bioeconomy. This special conference, hosted by New Forests and aptly themed The Future of Forestry Investment Conference, already has almost 200 confirmed attendees, representing more than 80 organizations from around the world, to the invitation only event which is being held at Pier One Sydney Harbour on 22 October. It will also be a special occasion for New Forests as it celebrates its 10th anniversary.
Government funding for Scion research programs NEW ZEALAND’S Crown research institute Scion has had two research proposals selected for funding. One addresses plant pest eradication and the other focuses on decision-making for complex environmental problems. The proposal “Protecting New Zealand’s primary sector from plant pests; a toolkit for the urban battlefield” was awarded $3.75 million over three years. The research program will be led by Dr Tara Strand, a research leader in Scion’s Forest Protection Team. The program will provide an integrated package of tools that address both the technical and social issues confronting agencies responsible for implementing or contributing to pest eradication programs. At the same time the research will give primary sectors more efficient methods
8
Australian Forests & Timber News
November 2015
to manage already-established-pests. A spill-over benefit is improved protection of the conservation estate. This work will put New Zealand at the forefront of international pest eradication research. The program will address three key requirements for effective eradication of pests before they become established: early detection, finding alternatives to broadcast aerial spraying in urban areas, and involving residents in all aspects of eradication. Successful too, was the proposal “Weaving the Korowai of Papatūānuku - Adaptive governance and supported environmental decision making”. This proposal was awarded $2.4 million over three years and will be led by Tim Barnard, an environmental planner in Scion’s Forest Systems Team.
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In the news
Investment plans continuing but wider confidence shaken
Tasmania needs specialty timbers NEW ANALYSIS strengthens the argument that selective logging of specialty timber in Tasmania’s World Heritage Area is necessary to meet the demand from craft industries, including boat builders, according to the State Government said. Forestry Tasmania has advised the Government that areas previously set aside for specialty species logging would deliver only 40% of the volumes of blackwood, celery top pine, myrtle and sassafras expected. Resources Minister Paul Harriss said he would present the new analysis to the World Heritage committee delegation during its visit in November in a bid to reverse opposition to logging inside forests added to Tasmania’s World Heritage Wilderness Area in 2013. The Minister said Forestry Tasmania’s analysis showed Tasmania’s boatbuilding industry would be at risk without access to specialty species growing in those protected forests. The Ministerial Advisory Council on Forestry is preparing a new specialty timbers management plan after the Government tore up the Tasmanian Forests Agreement struck by the previous government.
T
HE FOREST product industries annual business confidence survey suggests companies are nervous about the headwinds buffeting the economy, but still proceeding cautiously with reinvestment and retooling strategies following the Global Financial Crisis (GFC). Members of the Australian Forest Product Association (AFPA) represent the majority of the larger enterprises in the forest products value chain, between them employing tens of thousands of Australians. Their combined opinion therefore provides a good snapshot of the big business view of operating conditions and expectations. The Chairman of AFPA Greg McCormack said:“The survey’s headline Business Confidence Index for the coming year reveals businesses are less optimistic about the state of the overall economy.” (- 12.41 down from + 13.73, a drop of 30%) “This somewhat bearish sentiment, however, is not translating to a retreat back to the extreme focus on reducing costs and outlays which accompanied the GFC. The survey reveals that, in fact, forest industry companies are continuing to invest in plant and equipment at a moderate level. “The index reveals this measure is tracking close to last year’s. Employment growth appears likely to plateau, with most companies clearly concluding the re-hiring phase which followed the widespread ‘survival’ reductions of the GFC period. “The industry has enormous potential in a carbon constrained global economy if we can get the policy and industry settings right
Controlled Wood Certificate retained
¢ Chairman of AFPA Greg McCormack.
to take advantage of the world’s growing appetite for all the things we get from our sustainable natural and plantation forest industries. “One of the things that would make a big difference to business sentiment in our industries was to be assured that the Australian Government has a national fibre and forestry plan to drive sector wide growth of the integrated parts of the story,” said Mr McCormack.
National business confidence indices for forest products industry (out of a possible 40): 2015
2015
View of the external business environment
13.73
-12.41
Expectation to make capital investment
12.8
11.03
Increase/decrease in value of sales
6.25
4.13
Increase/decrease in staffing
6.25
2.75
Export volumes
10.64
4.83
Export prices
5.96
-4.83
Note: The index has a theoretical maximum (minimum) of 40 (-40). A rating of zero indicates ‘no change’ in conditions. A rating of less than 20 (or -20) suggests a ‘slight improvement’ (slight decline) in conditions, while a rating of 20 to 40 (-20 to -40) suggests a ‘significant improvement’ (significant decline) in conditions.
¢ The survey was undertaken in the two weeks concluding 11 September 2015.
AN INDEPENDENT review of the West Australian Government’s forestry agency has recommended changes in forest management practices including better conservation of habitat trees and improvements in identification and protection of rare, threatened and engaged species. Independent auditor, Soil Association Woodmark’s evaluation report, found the Forest Products Commission (FPC) had met the requirements of the Forest Stewardship Council’s (FSC) International Controlled Wood standard and would retain the certificate it first achieved in October 2014. FSC Australia CEO Adam Beaumont said while Controlled Wood did not carry the stringent social, economic and environmental requirements of full FSC Certification, it was a valuable way to encourage forest managers to improve their practices through the FSC system. “FSC Controlled Wood is not an endorsement of responsible forest management, but it is an important first step toward achieving full certification and the right to use the FSC’s green tree tick logo,” Beaumont said. “Vitally it provides an independent channel for stakeholders to engage with forest managers and have their concerns addressed in a transparent way.” Following in-depth consultation with local stakeholders regarding their concerns, the auditor identified eight new findings in its report, including concerns about the definition of old growth forest under FSC Australia’s standards. “The results of this audit are a good example of the FSC system at work,” Beaumont said. “Independent auditors have assessed the concerns of stakeholders and made several recommendations for the FPC to improve its forest management practices accordingly. “We would strongly encourage the FPC to address these recommendations on its journey to achieving full FSC certification. This process of continual improvement is the very foundation of the FSC system.”
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November 2015
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Meet the ultimate forwarder the Eco Log 594D Blue - the beast-of-burden With 300hp, 19.5 tonnes of loading capacity and 24.5 tonnes of tractive effort, the Eco Log 594 D dominates all other forwarders. Eco Log
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In the news
More women in leading business roles
A
LTHOUGH MEN continue to hold the majority of Australia’s top leadership positions the role of women is crucial to the future of the nation. According to new Gender Indicator figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) in 2013-14, just 26% of Key Management Personnel, 24% of Board Directors and 17% of CEOs were women,” said Lisa Conolly from the ABS. “Latest data also shows 35% of Commonwealth justices and judges and 23% of all State Supreme Court and Court of Appeal judges were women. “The Health Care and Social Assistance (37%), Education and Training (36%) and Administrative and Support Services industries (21%) recorded the highest proportions of women CEOs, while there were very few in the Mining (3%) and Financial and Insurance Services (4%).” The situation in the public service is changing, however, with the proportion of women in senior executive roles rising from 31% in 2004 to 40% in 2014. And in 2015, 31% of Federal parliamentarians were women, up from 26% in 2005. Career-wise, women make up 42% of the professional, scientific and technical services industry, 70% of persons in education and training, 78% of the health care and social assistance industry and 49% of the public administration and safety sector. Gender Indicators, Australia, brings together a variety of ABS and non-ABS data, and explores the differences between men and women in our society, and how these differences are changing over time. Michael Hartman, CEO of ForestWorks (which amongst many roles also facilitates the national Women in Forests and Timber Network), said that the interesting issue for ForestWorks was how training, education and skills development opportunities might affect employment outcomes when it comes to gender. “Many people progress through their careers via the learning and development opportunities offered to them in the workplace. “According to NCVER statistics, in 2014 females only made up 4% of people enrolled in a vocational education and training course for the forestry and wood products industry which is well below their percentage of employment in the industry. However women make up 53% of enrolments in VET across all industries and 84% of enrolments for community services and health courses. “A high proportion of either gender within a specific industry has an impact on training opportunities. Evidence suggest that the majority of opportunities for learning and development often go to the people who are part of the dominate gender in a particular industry or workplace. Ultimately this is often the challenge about managing and
SA Business Woman of the Year
¢ Wendy Fennell, Managing Director of Mount Gambier-based Fennel Forestry.
extracting the advantages of diversity,” he said. “People tend to promote and offer training opportunities to people who think and act like them, therefore dominate gender bias is perpetuated, often outside of the awareness of the decision makers. This effect snowballs over time and becomes part of the culture of an organisation or an industry. “This is where investing in education and training can be beneficial for an organisation. Firstly, to have a training policy that recognises the need for training to be offered to all employees who are potential candidates for a new position; and secondly, via leadership training to recognise the benefits of diversity – assuming that diversity is properly managed. The most obvious and simple way to increase diversity is to look towards increasing gender balance in roles across all levels of an organisation,” said Michael. Victoria’s Minister for Agriculture and Regional Development Jaala Pulford is also a strong believer in the role women play especially in rural areas. “With our food and fibre industry contributing more than $11.6 billion to Victoria’s economy, it’s vital we recognise the contribution of rural women to this crucial sector,” the Minister had said when addressing the Rural Women Uncovered Forum, in Beechworth. “As Victoria’s first female Agriculture Minister, I am extraordinarily proud to support and promote the role women play in our primary industries and rural communities.” Themed Exposing the Potential of Women in Agriculture, guest speakers included Georgie Somerset (Vice President of Agforce), Nicole Ladd (Victorian Regional Manager of Prime Super), Alexandra Gartmann (CEO of the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal) and Jodie Goldsworthy (Director at Beechworth Honey). “The Rural Women Uncovered Forum is a unique and important initiative, bringing many inspirational women from rural communities together to network, share experiences, make discoveries and inspire one another.”
WENDY FENNELL was named ‘Business Woman of the Year’ at the recent Women in Business and Regional Development (SA) – Annual Influential Women of The Year Awards. Wendy, Managing Director of Mount Gambierbased Fennel Forestry, was one of 26 women nominated for the award, including three others from the forestry and timber industry - Tammy Whitehead, Director at Glenara Transport; Patricia Merrett, Director at Merrett Logging; and EmmaKate Thorpe General Manager Human Resources at Forestry SA. Wendy began her working career at her family owned business G & R Logging; a company that was established by her parents Graham and Val Fennell and partner Ronnie Nilsson in 1991. Starting out her career before she was even in her twenties, Wendy worked tirelessly alongside her brother Barry to help grow the business into the major plantation hardwood and softwood harvester and transporter it is today. Two decades on, she now the Managing director of Fennell Forestry, and sits at the top of her field, competent, successful and highly respected amongst her peers and community. However, her success didn’t come without challenges. Reflecting back on her early years, Wendy said she experienced more ageism rather than sexism by others in the industry, but persistence and hard work earned her respect over time. She said her father was her greatest mentor, both in starting out in the industry and in staying with it. She said he always encouraged her to get involved in every facet of the business. There were also a number of women who were involved in the industry at the time that were influential to her development, in particular Tammy Whitehead and Karen Forster. Wendy says she still holds longstanding relationships with both of these women. Wendy recognises that people and their development is important. She believes in giving people a go, just as it was applied to her all those years ago, and wants to continue to grow the business going forward. A mother of two young boys, Wendy understands the importance of work life balance when it comes to attracting and retaining workers. She firmly believes in the saying “Work to live not live to work”. She is a strong advocate for the industry and believes the perception of the industry needs to be overturned and this can be done through tours, schools and more positive media stories. She is fiercely proud of the industry and that it is not second rate to any other.
Remote control forest harvesting NEW ZEALAND’S first remote control forest harvesting machine is being put to work in Nelson. It’s hoped the technology will reduce the safety hazards associated with the forestry industry. Future Forests Research CEO Russell Dale helped develop the technology and says it has the potential to take logging workers out of potentially dangerous 12
situations. “This type of operation we are looking at has no people on the hill felling by the machine and extracting from the hill. People are not involved in those two hazardous activities, so it’s a much safer operation for our workers.” The technology has been developed through the Steepland Harvesting Primary Growth Partnership (PGP) program, a
Government-private enterprise initiative. Steepland Harvesting is a six-year, $6 million program between the Ministry for Primary Industries and a consortium of forestry companies and contractors, led by FFR. It has taken three years of design and engineering research by an FFR team involving Scion, Cutover Systems Limited and
Australian Forests & Timber News
November 2015
ADM Design Ltd, working with harvesting contractor Wood Contracting Nelson Ltd. Contractor Ross Wood said mechanisation in the forests he managed had increased productivity from 200 tonnes a day to 350 tonnes a day.
www.timberbiz.com.au
In the news
Monitoring service to help manage equipment operator fatigue and distraction risk
C
ATERPILLAR HAS launched a 24/7 equipment operator monitoring service to provide customers the power to see, mitigate and manage the primary variable impacting their operations -- the human factor! Through industry-leading in-cab and wearable safety technologies, Caterpillar now can provide customers with visibility to both machine and operator information. Inside Caterpillar’s 24/7 Monitoring Centre, analysts correlate data about the health and productivity of operators and equipment to reveal the magnitude of conditions such as fatigue and distraction and their impact on operations. “Our customers want better visibility to the interaction between operators and machines, and how behaviour impacts safety and productivity,” said Tim Crane, Caterpillar Safety Services manager. “This innovative solution offers our customers the opportunity to mitigate risk and improve productivity. No organisation is in a better position to provide customers these sustainable improvement solutions
www.timberbiz.com.au ATM_2015-11_USNR.indd 1
than Caterpillar.” Caterpillar’s solution leverages industry-leading technologies to gain visibility to risk. The Driver Safety System (DSS™), developed by Seeing Machines, an alliance partner of Caterpillar, includes an in-cab camera and alert system to notify the operator the moment a fatigue or distraction event occurs. Events are tracked by analysts who also capture operator sleep quantity and quality information provided through the wrist-worn
Cat® Smartband, an actigraphy solution powered by Fatigue Science. The enhanced visibility to risks extends beyond front-line employees to expose improvement opportunities throughout the organization, including education and training, shift scheduling, leadership coaching and other cultural elements. The DSS and Cat Smartband are part of a growing suite of tools that assist customers in improving safety by recognizing that some
Australian Forests & Timber News
November 2015
risks are natural, inevitable and fully manageable, if made visible. Combined with Cat machine data available through EMSolutions, Cat MineStar™ System and Cat Vital Information Management System (VIMS™), operator performance data from the DSS and Smartband paints a powerful picture of fatigue and distraction risk and its impact on productivity and profitability. Property damage, increased fuel burn and tire abuse have all been tied to fatigued or distracted operators. “Technology alone is not the silver bullet for a safer or more productive operation,” said George Taylor, vice president of the Caterpillar Customer Services Support Division. “In fact, most technologies fail without proper consideration of the organisational culture and a plan to manage change. Caterpillar’s safety solutions bring management and employees together to achieve excellence, providing customers the greatest opportunity for successful implementation.” To learn more about Caterpillar’s solution for managing fatigue and distraction risk, visit safety.cat.com/ fatigue.
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10/12/2015 5:47:50 PM
In the news
New teachers resource launched in Australia
K
NOWLEDGE HAS the power to change the way people think about things, like trees, wood products and whole industries. Now the forestry education website –www. forestlearning.edu.au - is providing Australian teachers with resources developed to support the Australian curriculum. Using the website teachers can deliver lesson and more – but only if they are aware of it and here, you, as a member of the forest and wood products industry, have a part to play. Developed by Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA), ForestLearning is an innovative online resource that not only provides teachers with relevant and interesting lesson materials, but can also make their jobs easier, so it’s an asset they’ll be keen to know all about. An industry targeted publicity campaign has included postcard inserts in the October editions of Timber Trader, Australasian Timber and Australian Forest and Timber News, as well as banner ads and information on industry news sites. These communications are all designed to do one thing, engage people in our industry and motivate them to help communicate the benefits of ForestLearning to teachers. “If you’ve children at school, I urge you to give them the postcards to take to their teachers”, said Ric Sinclair, Managing Director of FWPA. “It’s a simple and easy way to let teachers know about the one-stop website and
“The program is designed to be interactive, with videos, online games and excursion and forest information.” make use of the exciting new resources. Our experience has shown that it only takes one teacher to become interested and then they can act as the forest education champion and promote it to other school staff members.” ForestLearning provides easy-touse resources for teachers about Australian forests, their sustainable management and the products they produce. The website will also be promoted through education community communications, but forest and wood products industry members can play a vital role by ensuring locals schools and teachers know about this resource. “If you don’t have children at school, you probably have workmates or friends who do,” said Mr Sinclair, “and if you are an employer, you can encourage your employees to promote the program to their children’s teachers. “Through ForestLearning teachers will better understand the vital role that Australian forests play in providing timber products and the environment,” said Mr Sinclair, “and if you’re asked to speak about forests yourself, please contact us for a ForestLearning school kit that includes a presentation, bookmarks, postcards and posters.” The ForestLearning website has
been recently updated to include teaching resources in line with the Australian curriculum. The wide range of activities, lesson plans and worksheets make it easy for teachers to integrate into the curriculum. “I would encourage our industry to direct teachers towards the site where they can access everything they need at the touch of a button,” continued Mr Sinclair. “This website and lessons are also suitable and important for city schools looking for ways to incorporate the natural environment into their curriculum”. All of the forestry teaching resources are free of charge and teachers can access the website at any time. The program is designed to be interactive, with videos, online games and excursion and forest information. Every lesson is developed by educators from across Australia and supported by the Australian Forest Education Alliance (AFEA). The members of the AFEA, including the Australian Forest Products Association, the Forest Education Foundation Tasmania, Forestry Corporation NSW, Forest Products
Commission WA, PIRSA Forestry SA, Vic Forests and the Sustainable Forestry Program at Southern Cross University, contribute educational resources based on research and ensure that all of the material is up-do-date. Forest education fits into a variety of subjects including science, history, geography, mathematics and technology. Some of the topics covered are biodiversity, innovative design, climate change, carbon storage and the life cycle of wood and timber products. Your children and their classmates will learn more about the timber products they use every day and where they came from. About Forest and Wood Products Australia and ForestLearning Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA) is a not-for-profit service provider for the forestry and wood industry. The ForestLearning program provides educational resources to schools across Australia in line with the Australian curriculum. ForestLearning is the only dedicated teaching and learning resources on Australian forests and wood products. The program’s aim is to address misinformation about the use and harvesting of forests in Australia by providing quality resources for teachers.
For more information: visit www.forestlearning.edu.au or contact Tania Crosbie: tania@forestlearning.edu.au or call 0412 149 624
Scion annual report highlights forestry role in regional growth CROWN RESEARCH institute Scion released its annual report which highlights research that will increase the contribution of planted forests to national and regional economic development. Chair Tony Nowell says an increased emphasis on integrating forests with other land uses is key to meeting more stringent environmental requirements and will lead to more forest-derived products in supply chains and regional job creation. “By way of example is the work we have done, with other organisations, to explore the feasibility of a new industry based on Northland’s extensive tōtara resources, which could be a boon to the region’s struggling economy. Preliminary figures show a potential value of over $100 million by 2021. “Our Packaging Team developed a new moisture barrier coating designed to increase the lifetime of paperboard in humid conditions. With horticultural exports worth some $4.7 billion to New Zealand such innovations are hugely beneficial. “We have also made strides in evaluating ecosystem services, such as carbon sequestration, water quality improvement, avoided erosion and increased biodiversity. In a recently completed study we showed that converting 320 hectare of dry stock to exotic forestry could provide a net gain of almost $9,000 per hectare per year, and add millions to the ecosystem services value,” said Mr Nowell. 14
¢ Scion Chair Tony Nowell CNZM (left) and CEO Dr Warren Parker.
Scion is now in its second year of the six-year Growing Confidence in Forestry’s Future research program. Modelling studies and accelerator trials are showing pathways for forest growers to realise productivity gains through faster growing forests with less variability between and within trees. Long-growing trials have been fruitful too. Analysis of data from 30-year long genetic gain trials has provided evidence of a strong relationship between the level of genetic improvement and increased volume grown. At a national level, the increase in present value resulting from genetic improvement of the radiata pine estate in 2014 is estimated to be $3.5 billion. Scion’s wide research brief takes it well beyond tree growing. Biotransformation is ground
Australian Forests & Timber News
breaking work, and Scion scientists teamed up with the University of Wisconsin-Madison to make radiata pine and other softwoods easier to process into valuable feedstock for the pulp, paper and biofuel industries. Through its international licensees, the Sciondeveloped Woodforce technology for thermoplastic wood composites underwent successful industrial-scale commercial testing within the automotive and other sectors. Chief Executive Warren Parker says Scion’s research and technology successes were achieved alongside a financial performance that was solid in a challenging environment. “Revenue was $47.3 million, $1.8 million below budget, which reflected changes to public sector funding. Return on equity was 7.3% and above budget of 5.6%. “The year was challenging as we adapted, changed and upskilled to stay relevant in dynamic industry, business, science and political environments. Yet in a period of substantial change in our science sector, it was humbling to have a unique opportunity for our expert tree breeders to mark history with a meaningful gift to New Zealand from our research nursery,” said Dr Parker. Scion raised 50 seedlings that are authenticated descendants from the Gallipoli Peninsula’s Lone Pine and donated them to RSAs throughout the country for planting at ANZAC Day centenary commemorations.
November 2015
www.timberbiz.com.au
In the news
AFS Award pays tribute to Richard Stanton
I
NDUSTRY WILL pay tribute to a man who devoted his life to sustainable forest management in Australia and internationally at an all-industry dinner in Melbourne. The inaugural Richard Stanton Memorial Award for Excellence will be presented at the dinner, organised by Australian Forestry Standard Ltd, on October 22 at the prestigious Melbourne Sea Life Aquarium. With the theme ‘Using Wood is Good. Using Certified Wood is Better’, the dinner will be held at the aquarium’s Upper Deck in a
venue that is home to more than 10,000 sea creatures, including one of the world’s largest saltwater crocodiles. The life of Mr Stanton, who was CEO and national secretary of Australian Forestry Standard Ltd, was claimed in a tragic bicycle accident in Canberra earlier this year. He was 49. He had previously held a number of key roles in the Australian Plantation Products and Paper Industry Council (A3P); Australian Paper Industry Council; Plantation Timber Association of Australia;
National Association of Forest Industries; and State Forests NSW. AFS Ltd chair Kate Carnell said Mr Stanton’s knowledge, commitment and enthusiasm for the Australian forest standard was extraordinary. “He had always been devoted to expanding sustainable forests,” she said. Ms Carnell said nominations for the Richard Stanton Award for Excellence were open to individuals who had contributed significantly to either forest management or chain of custody certification
Diversification crucial for survival
¢ Dr David Brand New Forests.
THE CEO of New Forests, Australia’s largest forestry investor, David Brand said increasing pressure on China’s climate is a good reason to diversify Australia’s forestry export markets. “From our perspective it does raise the question of whether we should be diversifying our markets and making sure
we have several markets we can trade into and not be overly reliant on any one.” Australia exports 90% of its blue gums as wood chips and 23% of its pine as timber. New Forests is Australia’s largest forestry investment company, managing almost $3 billion forestry assets around the world. Mr Brand said a key component to longevity and success for the company was keeping abreast of consumer changes and being adaptable to change. He said there were new markets emerging in Europe, including flourishing biomarkets. “As a manager you’re just continuously retargeting, asking what are the market trends, and where do we position our business,” Mr Brand said the low Australian dollar was also making Australia’s forestry exports more competitive, displacing supply from North America and counteracting the economic slow down in China. “At the moment it’s balancing, so in other words, the demand is probably lower but we’re getting more market share, so from our perspective we’re holding our own,” he said. “And as China starts to recover - as it inevitably will - we expect the export market demand will increase again.”
under the Australian Forestry Standard Certification System. The award nominees will be those who have contributed to sustainable forest management under AS4708 or chain of custody under AS4707. The award is open to, but not restricted to, forest owners and managers; chain of custody certificate holders; staff of certification bodies; forest scientists and researchers; and designers of products manufactured from sustainable timber.
Vale Bob Humphreys BOB HUMPHREYS, a pioneer and leader for the forest and timber industry in East Gippsland, has passed away. He was a former president of VAFI, and current Executive Committee member, and a vital contributor to the forest and wood products industry. “Bob will be remembered for his kindness, his sense of humour and his passion for the industry in which he worked for over half a century,” said VAFI chief Tim Johnson. “We are better off for having known him, and together we will continue to ensure his legacy in the industry lives on. “VAFI extends thoughts and prayers to his family, friends and loved ones.”
Manufactured to endure the most extreme & demanding terrains
Thirst comes first IN A suggestion that could ease the worries of eucalyptus farmers and plywood industry in the country, Indian Plywood Industries Research Institute (IPIRTI) has said melia dubia trees (also called malabar neem or kaad bevu) should be grown instead of the water-guzzling eucalyptus tree. Eucalyptus plantations have come under the scanner after the High Court recently directed the forest officials to consider the ban on the tree in Kolar and Chickballapur, where eucalyptus plantations are being blamed for the declining groundwater table. “We found it to be conforming to the ecological standards, while offering more strength and girth suitable for the wood-panel industry,” said B.N. Mohanty, Director, IPIRTI, which is a www.timberbiz.com.au
research and development institution under the Ministry of Environment. He was speaking at the meeting of the South India Plywood Manufacturers’ Association (SIPMA) here on Wednesday. Wood-based panel manufacturers and government representatives discussed technological advances in the sector, and issues concerning it. “Kaad bevu consumes less water compared to eucalyptus and can grow to a girth of 100 cm (or one metre) in less than eight years in well-irrigated areas. Its peeling qualities also help get the best veneers for the plywood industry,” said Mr Mohanty. He said discussions will be held with the Ministry and Central forest officials to take up large-scale plantation of Melia Dubia tree. Australian Forests & Timber News
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15
In the news
Tigercat factory tour
A
GROUP of Australian customers were invited by Onetrak in conjunction with Tigercat to attend an overseas tour to visit the new Tigercat factories. The facilities include the new 160 Plant at Paris, new Spare Parts warehouse in Brantford and new Axle facility in Kitchener. The group also had some time for
sightseeing in Toronto and the Niagara Falls. New for this year’s trip was a detour to North Carolina, U.S. to visit Bobby and Lorry Goodson’s famous swamp logging operations using 700 series Feller Buncher units, and E series skidders fitted with the Tigercat/FPT engines.
¢ The group.
¢ Bobby Goodson’s Tigercat in swamp logging application.
¢ Bobby Goodson’s Tigercat in swamp logging application.
Norwood Sawmills has arrived!
NORWOOD SAWMILLS, a leading global portable sawmill and forestry equipment manufacturer, now has Australian distributors. Norwood Sawmills has been designing and building premium quality portable mills for over 20 years. A Canadian based company manufacturing in Canada Norwood supplies to more than 100 countries world wide now including Australia. Norwood supplies many options for milling timber, from a basic portable chain saw mill to a range of band saw mills that range in size from a 26” diameter log to a 36” diameter log with options to add hydraulics log turners, rollers plus trailer options. The sky is the limit. Norwood invests heavily in R & D, focusing on developing technology that cuts the time it takes to mill each log into dimensional timber. By eliminating operator functions and speeding up cycle times, Norwood sawmills achieve greater productivity, and therefore profitability. Hardwood Mills Australia is now the distributor of Norwood Sawmills; they’re based in Sydney with machines available. For more information go to www.norwoodsawmill.com. au or call 1300 406 984
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Australian Forests & Timber News
November 2015
www.timberbiz.com.au
BIO
Top line-up of machines on show during demo days
M
O R B A R K W ELCOM ED approximately 300 customers, members of its authorised dealer network, and other guests from around the world for its ninth Demo Days event in August. Morbark’s Demo Days gave attendees the opportunity to not only watch the equipment in action but also meet the
people who build and support the equipment. The August event included factory tours, networking opportunities, vendor booths, and a chance to see the equipment up close, as well as try out Morbark’s Boxer® line of compact utility loaders. The event culminated with demonstrations of equipment for the forestry and recycling markets
including the HT1042 SlowSpeed Shredder, Beever ™ M20R Forestry, 30/36 NCL Track Whole Tree Drum Chipper, 40/36 NCL Whole Tree Drum Chipper, Rebuilt 50/48 NCL Whole Tree Drum Chipper (2004 model), 3200 Wood Hog Horizontal Grinder, 6600 Track Wood Hog Horizontal Grinder, and a 1300B Tub Grinder.
¢ Demo Days factory tour.
¢ Morbark's 6600 does the job with ease.
¢ HT1042 Slow-Speed Shredder.
¢ Beever M20R Forestry.
¢ HT1042 Pile Inspection.
Premier bioenergy conference AUSTRALIA’S PREMIER bioenergy conference, Bioenergy Australia 2015, will be held at the Hotel Grand Chancellor in Launceston, from Monday, 30 November - Tuesday, 1 December, with a technical tour on Wednesday, 2 December. The conference will consider the many facets of bioenergy, including having some 100+ presentations on: • Biomass resources and supply chain aspects • Conventional and advanced liquid biofuels • Algae and other future feedstocks • P yrolysis, hydrothermal processing and bio-char
• Gasification • Biogas production and utilisation • Energy-from-waste • Heat and power • Biorefining and biochemicals Overarching aspects of bioenergy, such as policies, finance and investment, markets, life cycle emissions and sustainability. In past years this conference has been attended by 200-300 delegates and a similar attendance is expected this year. The program will include a trade exhibition and technical posters and include a tour to bioenergy facilities in the region. bioenergyconf@theassociationspecialists. com.au
¢ Rebuilt 50/48 Drum Chipper.
www.timberbiz.com.au
Australian Forests & Timber News
November 2015
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CONFERENCES
Remote sensing changing the way forests are managed ForestTECH 2015 covers it all
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ITHOUT DOUBT, remote sensing over the last two years has made the most profound impact on how foresters are planning and managing their forest estates. Around 300 technical foresters attended the ForestTECH 2014 event that ran in Australia and New Zealand late last year. The technology series profiled; new developments in remote sensing and analytical tools for forestry companies, the operational use of airborne and terrestrial LiDAR and
its integration into forest inventory and planning systems, developments in new satellite imagery and recent results from UAV trials collecting high-resolution spatial datasets for forestry companies. This year, ForestTECH 2015 has been designed to cover how local forester’s best handle the increasing volumes of data being collected out in the field. A staggering 90% of the world’s data for example has been generated in just the last 18 months. New data collection technologies
including satellite imagery, UAV platforms, airborne and terrestrial LiDAR, harvester information, infield sensors and improved field data collection and reporting are increasingly being introduced to forestry operations. Advanced and faster processing systems are required to handle “big data” with the information now being made available, often in real time, to multiple users. Speedy development of digital gadgets like smartphones and tablets and improved connectivity
1.30pm Digital Mobile Radio.
The program for the Melbourne conference is: DAY ONE - Tuesday 24 November 2015
Improving mobile coverage for uninterrupted voice and data exchange from within the forest, to the mill, dispatch office, workforce management system and contractors. Bevan Clarke, ANZ Channel Director, Logic Wireless
Session 4: Key Considerations when Evaluating Mobile Options for Your Forest Estate
Session 1: The Digital Technology Revolution. Just how is it changing how we do business?
8.30am Introduction, FIEA 8.40am Looking Forward. Mobile Technologies and their Impact on Business within the Next Decade. How 5G, Cloud & IoT are transforming Australian industries. Andres Torres, Strategic Marketing Manager, Ericsson South East Asia & Oceania
9.00am Mobile Connectivity.
Key trends disrupting how we run business today. Randall Cameron, Managing Director – Australia, Mobile Mentor
2.00pm Development of Mobile Data Collection Systems.
A step-by-step guide to preparing an individual data collection project. Mike Scanlon, Mobile Software Architect, Natural Resource Manager (NRM) Group, U.S. Forest Service, USA
2.30pm The Connected Forest.
Mobile harvesting solutions for intelligent wood flow.Matt Ludbrook, General Manager, Trimble Forestry Logistics, NZ
3.00pm Afternoon Tea & Networking 3.30pm Case Study - Mobilising a Remote Workforce.
9.30am Turning a Primary Industry on its Head.
Features, lessons from development, operational use and ROI in rolling out FCNSW’s new smart forest mapping app. Mike Sutton, Manager Forest Information & Planning, Forestry Corporation of NSW
10.00am Morning Tea & Networking
4.00pm Technology Showcase 5.00pm Refreshments 6.30pm Conference Dinner
How the adoption of technology has resulted in step change in the Australian Mining Industry. Christine Gibbs Stewart, CEO, Austmine Ltd
Session 2: Big Data for Forestry.
How we’re going to collect, manage, analyse, report and use ever increasing volumes of field data
10.30am Big Data. The transformative value data analytics can bring to a forestry business.
8.30am Real Time Working in the Forest.
Linking imagery with Inventory and the live harvesting process. Garret Mullooly, Co-founder (Chief Operating Officer), TreeMetrics, Ireland & John Lyons, Forest Technical Services Manager, Coillte, Ireland (via Video Link)
Sean van der Walt, M2M Technologist, Digi International
11.30am The Mobile Revolution in Forestry.
Data collection and analysis – quantifying the technology issues and opportunities . that are available. Kevin Cooney, Group Manager Resources, HQPlantations
12.00pm Lunch & Networking Session 3: Improving Connectivity.
Systems, technologies and practices being used to improve withincompany data exchange and communications out in the field
1.00pm Connecting Rural Businesses in Australia.
New infrastructure investment in rural broadband, mobile coverage & capacity. What’s this mean to the forestry industry? Chris Althaus, CEO, Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association
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9.00am You’ve got the App – now how do you collect, process and manage the data. An insight into technical issues around 500 FCNSW employees collecting, uploading and sharing spatial information in real-time using a new mobile mapping app. Rob Kirwood, GIS Team Leader, Forestry Corporation of NSW
Session 6: Recent Research and Trials on Remote Sensing, Field Data Capture and Analysis 9.30am Case Study – OneFortyOne Plantations.
Handling “Big Data” collected from mixed forest types using plot imputation. Recent results from native FCNSW forests. David Herries, GM, Interpine Group, New Zealand
11.00am Improving Processing Solutions for Analysing LiDAR and Satellite Remote Sensing Data from the Field. Dr Mitch Bryson, Research Fellow, Australian Centre for Field Robotics, University of Sydney
11.30am Technology Showcase 12.00pm Lunch & Networking Session 7: Forestry Apps. What’s being developed, what works in the field and what should stay in the lab? 1.00pm Practical and Rugged Mobile Solutions for Forestry Field Staff.
What’s available and what works. An overview of hardware devices, software systems and the most popular applications being used by field staff. Mike Scanlon, Mobile Software Architect, Natural Resource. Manager (NRM) Group, U.S. Forest Service, USA
Lessons from rolling out a new smartphone app to field staff across New Zealand. Bev Taylor, Geospatial Manager, Ernslaw One, New Zealand
Session 5: Linking the Forest to the Office in Real Time
11.00am Connecting the Dots: Automation, Connectivity, Cloud & Productivity.
10.00am Morning Tea & Networking 10.30am Forest Yields using LiDAR Metrics.
1.30pm GeoMaster Mobile.
DAY TWO - Wednesday 25 November 2015
Ruairidh Henderson, Chief Strategy Officer, Global Surface Intelligence, Scotland (Via Video Link)
2.00pm Improving Value Recovery and Production Planning using Harvester Data. Options available to the forest manager, planner and harvesting contractor to utilise collected data. Jeremy Gibson, Director, ForestPHD
2.30pm Trestima Forest Inventory & Wood Volume Systems. Utilising smartphone Apps, cloud storage and analysis. Simo Kivimäki, CEO, Trestima, Finland (Via Video Link)
3.00pm Conference Concludes. Afternoon Tea & Networking 3.30pm Remote Sensing in the Field.
Short 1.5 hour interactive discussions following on from last year’s ForestTECH workshop. Forum for forestry companies and users of remote sensing technologies to discuss operational experiences, research and challenges. Mike Sutton/Tony Brown, FCNSW co-ordinating
5.00pm Workshop Concludes
Operational results from a recent post/pre-harvest LiDAR inventory over 28,000ha. Inventory design, performance of LiDAR inventory and integration with forest planning systems. Jan Rombouts, Manager Resource Planning, OneFortyOne Plantations
Australian Forests & Timber News
has changed how forestry companies are collecting and managing data to improve their operations. Forestry apps and the development of mobile forestry applications continue to rise exponentially – from measurement of wood volumes out in the field through to scheduling and logistics of wood flows. ForestTECH 2015 will provide you and your organisation with the technology and contacts needed to make the next big step in your business!
November 2015
I N C O R P O R AT I N G A U S T R A L A S I A N F O R E S T L O G G E R & S AW M I L L E R
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CONFERENCES
Data collection tips for field foresters
M
IKE SCANLON, is a Mobile Software Architect with the Natural Resource Manager Group with the US Forest Service. NRM has developed over 60 data collection applications with mobile applications designed for timber, wildlife, recreation and others. Mike has spent his entire career with the Forest Service involved in coordinating data collection for timber, recreation, grazing, roads and fire. He and his team continue to test mobile data collection applications as a wildland fire fighter. Mike will be presenting as part of the ForestTECH 2015 series for foresters in both Australia and New Zealand in November. He’ll be presenting on developing mobile data collection systems for forest managers as well as providing a practical review of rugged mobile solutions that can be used by forestry staff – what’s available, what works and an overview of hardware devices, software systems and the most useful applications being used by forestry field staff. From recent discussions with Mike, he’s provided a short guide on software selection and picking the right hardware for data collection. Choose your software: The selection of devices and software is a bit of a chicken and egg problem. For the most part hardware and software selection needs to go hand-in-hand. If you know that you need to support a specific hardware platform that will limit your software options. If you know that you want to use a specific piece of software that will limit your hardware options. If you are truly open on both of these questions, then start with an assumption that you are going to use consumer devices. The natural resource data collection application includes some requirements that set it apart from other data collection applications. The first of these requirements is the “occasionallyconnected” environment. It is very rare for natural resource data to be collected in an area where cellular service and internet connectivity are an option. On the other hand, most applications in the marketplace today assume that they will be able to make a data connection most of the time. Check your selected application to be sure that it will run when disconnected. The next unique requirement is that we need to use GPS to map “features” that we inventory. Sometimes you can bypass the mapping requirement, but most of the time you need to find any application that will allow you to display and edit the geometry of the features you are inspecting. Adding a map component to a data collection form is a significant undertaking
'To natural resource professionals, the three requirements here seem very basic. However, when you enter the world of consumer devices and consumer software, these requirements each create difficult challenges that will weed out a number of the software offerings.' www.timberbiz.com.au
for any development team. The final requirement is not unique to natural resource data, but it is a limitation that is common to many software systems. The question you must ask is if the system handles “one-to-many” relationships. Many systems will only collect “flat files” of information on the resources you want to inventory. Systems that do support data relationships usually limit the number of relationships they will support. This final requirement is beginning to push you toward the next step in your process. To natural resource professionals, the three requirements here seem very basic. However, when you enter the world of consumer devices and consumer software, these requirements each create difficult challenges that will weed out a number of the software offerings. Choose your platform: The first step in any data collection effort is determining the hardware that will be used to perform the data collection. Most of the world is now operating with ‘consumer’ devices that are primarily based on the iOS and Android operating systems. Natural resource companies often have a historic investment in Windows Mobile hardware. If you select Windows Mobile, you will find a completely different selection of applications. Many will wonder why we need to consider Windows Mobile. The consumer devices are everywhere and the incredible number of devices has driven down the price per unit. On the other hand, it is very rare to find one of these devices that is hardened (or ruggedized) for field data collection. The vast majority of ruggedized devices on the market today are still running Windows Mobile. Trimble and others have dabbled with the Android operating system, but Windows Mobile remains surprisingly resilient. The difficulty with Windows Mobile is that is
Australian Forests & Timber News
¢ Mike Scanlon.
November 2015
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CONFERENCES does not support many of the newer paradigms in programming techniques. Most notably, nobody is building a modern web browser for this operating system. Applications that depend upon web browser functionality will probably not operate on the Windows Mobile platform. Consumer devices can be adapted for field use. The incredible proliferation of devices has brought down the cost of ruggedized cases. It used to be common to pay $80 or $100 for a case to protect a non-rugged device. The consumer market has brought that price down, often to $10 or $20 for a phone-sized device and $20 to $60 for a tablet. You will discover that many of the data collection options that you want to consider will either run on Windows Mobile or they will run on the consumer devices, iOS and Android. If you have a favourite application that you want to run (think ArcPad) then you should check which devices will support the software. In general, Windows Mobile will offer some excellent specialized data collection options that are generally priced in the range of hundreds or thousands of dollars per seat. On the other hand, the consumer devices will offer generic applications that are often free, but may be just a few dollars per seat, or may be priced based on the amount of data you collect. There are notable exceptions to these general trends. Application types: Your data model is an essential part of any data collection effort. As mentioned in software selection, you need to
'The difficulty with Windows Mobile is that is does not support many of the newer paradigms in programming techniques. Most notably, nobody is building a modern web browser for this operating system.' consider the number of one-to-many table relationships that you need to support. There are some cases where the simplest data models can drive your selection of data collection software. Photo Apps - The very simplest data model can be a geospatial point with a picture. Modern mobile devices support an internal GPS receiver and most devices will now “geo-tag” a photo with the GPS coordinates of the device. The “tags” on these photos use a protocol, called the EXIF data standard, to record data in the “metadata” or header information for the photo. There are EXIF data editors for most platforms. Recording data in the header of a photo is very limiting. Geo-Photos: The next class of applications provide basic mapping capability and allow you to put a point on the map and add some basic attributes. These apps are great when the GPS
position is just as important as the photo. They really add to the EXIF app solution because you can export a whole set of positions to your Geographic Information System, or GIS software. These apps become more valuable when they can record or “track” your GPS coordinates and create a line instead of just a single point. The simpler apps start with just a description data item, but another way to add value is to create additional data items that will be stored with each feature. Form-Builders: As your data model becomes more complex you may want to create a set of valid values for a specific data item. Mike will be delving into tips and tricks using mobile devices working with a large field workforce with the US Forest Service in the upcoming ForestTECH 2015 event. A range of other specialists will be outlining useful Mobile apps, the process of building and rolling these out to field staff and operationally, how data exchange and processing of this field data can best be tackled by a forestry company. For more information: Full programme details can be found on the event website, www.foresttech.events.
The individuals who make up the industry are just brilliant to work with and alongside BRENT APTHORP ... he’s a bloke known to many in the forestry and timber industry and he’s also the man-behind-the-scenes when it comes to the TECH series of highly successful FIEA conferences in Australia and New Zealand. But what about the “real” Brent, the bloke behind the persona? What were and are his driving forces; his background and why he has become successful in this industry. Join Australian Forests & Timber News in this conversation with Brent... AFTN: A bit of Apthorp history (where born, schooling, career choice and why) Brent: I was born in Nelson, New Zealand. Career choice was forestry. In those days very little guidance was given to school students regarding career options. I enjoyed the outdoors. In fact, there were four young school students who slipped in under the radar at about 15 years of age through contacts one of us had with an environmental ranger to the then, NZ Forest Service. We used to work in the school holidays as a “Schoolboy” gang operating out of a hunter’s camp in the forests – building tracks, constructing bridges, building and maintaining huts, erecting deer enclosure pens to determine the impact that wild deer had on vegetation…. It was 20
a dream job for a youngster! I graduated in 1979. Started as a forester in the central North Island, Turangi. I joined the Ministry of Forestry (MOF) when the NZ Forest Service wound up in 1986 providing consulting services to the private sector – everything from forest valuations through to wood harvesting. We moved to Dunedin with a change of focus, working with other Government agencies, financial institutions and Councils to promote investment opportunities in forestry and wood processing. Increasingly I began to work alongside industry associations, researchers and industry evaluating new and emerging technologies best suited to local wood processing operations.
With the merger of two Government Departments and the planned withdrawal from technology transfer activities to the country’s forest products industry, I joined forces with another MOF employee, a Mechanical Engineer, John Stulen. AFTN: When did the involvement with FIEA start? Brent: The Forest Industry Engineering Association (FIEA) had been around for 20 plus years. In the late 1980s there were several active branches that ran regional meetings for networking of the local forest products industry. It also ran an annual awards program and conference. Like many industry groupings of its time, it was increasingly dependent on voluntary support from industry to
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maintain and run the association’s business. It became more and more difficult to attract members and run the association as an essentially voluntary grouping. We (Brent and John Stulen), with the backing of most of the major industry associations at the time and Government, left the Government. We both opted to become full time employees of the association. The objects of FIEA were changed at the time to better suit the changing landscape in which it was operating. It became essentially a stand-alone technology transfer grouping for the forest products industry. Because of the synergies that existed between the New Zealand and Australian forest products industries (the focus for the early years was on sawmilling and wood www.timberbiz.com.au
CONFERENCES manufacturing), the technology transfer programs were established to run in both New Zealand and Australia. Early linkages were set up with most of the major industry associations at the time to work together to bring these new technology programs into Australia. The objective was simple - to provide an independent platform to showcase new and emerging technologies to local companies. Our role was to talk to local companies (wood producers, researchers, technology providers and product and service suppliers to the industry), identify technologies best suited to the local wood resource and the size of our industry and then bring out the appropriate expertise to talk and work with local businesses. AFTN: When did you feel there was a need for such (TECH) events? Brent: We had a very close working relationship in the mid1980s with the newly-formed NZ Pine Manufacturers Association. The then NZ Forest Research Institute (FRI) was doing some excellent and practical research on manufacturing – finger-jointing, timber gluing, laminating, wood machining and surface finishing. We recognised that we had a very young and immature wood manufacturing industry. The issue was, though, that we had no local independent expertise to advise on plant design, equipment selection, best operating practices. AFTN: How many events you have been involved with? Brent: That’s a tough one to call. For larger conferences, trade shows and workshops – over the years –say around 200. At some events we have run a variety of
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stand-alone workshops that go with the shows. When these built in we’ve probably run close to 500. AFTN: Your general feeling about the industry (Australia and New Zealand)? Brent: We’re still very upbeat about the forestry and wood products industries – on both sides of the Tasman. Events I think are a good barometer of the current state of the local industry. You can normally get a pretty good gauge from attendances at our FIEA events. If the industry is down, times are tough, money is short – one of the first things to go will be training. The last three forestry and wood products events in 2015 have seen record attendances for the last 15 years. The Forestry Safety Summit in March, run for the first time in New Zealand and Australia, drew in around 400 people, the Steep Slope Harvesting event run only in New Zealand in late June drew in a record of over 400 forestry managers and contractors and the recent WoodTECH 2015 event focussing on scanning, sawing and mill optimisation had well over 300 delegates from local sawmilling operations to attend – another record for this event. AFTN: Is it possible to quantify the value of these events to the industry? Brent: There’s a myriad of advantages and benefits to the industry coming out of the FIEA technology events. For local companies, they get exposure to most of the major technology providers (both through presentations, exhibitor trade stands and site visits) from around the globe over a short two day period. The advantage of FIEA running the events is that we
provide an independent platform to profile the technology rather than industry being invited to a particular supplier’s workshop or seminar. Networking is a key. It’s often an under-rated component of these events. The delegates get a rare opportunity to network with their peers. For many, this will be one of the few times they get alongside others in the same business and in the same field. The steep slope harvesting program in Rotorua, New Zealand for example, the noise from over 400 attending was deafening. It was the largest gathering of forestry contractors seen in any one place at one time from within this region. The noise being generated from the conversations was testament to the value of networking and the contacts being made from this type of event.
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November 2015
AFTN: What’s next for Brent Apthorp? Brent: More of the same right now. The individuals who make up the industry are just brilliant to work with and alongside. The job’s so varied. Where else do you have the ability to learn so much in any one year? You’re meeting, working with and listening to over 100 world leaders in new, emerging and innovative technologies. The presenters can make such a difference - a step change to how our industry operates. As an event organiser, not literally being able to talk to someone alongside you during one of the breaks – because of the sheer volume of noise being generated from discussions, networking and demonstrations that are occurring – that’s the buzz. That’s what gets me up every day.
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FIELD DAYS
Tigercat/Onetrak Tassie field days resounding success
O
NETRAK, IN conjunction with Tigercat, recently held forestry field days showcasing various Tigercat models working in a variety of applications in Tasmania. It was pleasing to see many contractors travel from interstate for the event as well as a solid local contingency from Tasmania. The two day trip included visiting five different operations spreading from Launceston in the north of Tasmania to Hobart in the south. The group got to see several Tigercat machines working in a variety of harvesting prescriptions. The trip also included a visit to the Onetrak dealership in Brighton. The Onetrak operation in Brighton manufactures buckets and attachments and also undertakes forestry equipment guarding packages, i.e. cab risers, over cab and over body protection.
Field Day 1: Congregating in Launceston, a convoy of 4x4 vehicles headed for the Mechanised Logging operation on the North West Coast. Here we were able to witness the Tigercat LH855C levelling harvester working with the Waratah HTH625C processor in a large clear fell pine operation. Felling this timber for the processor was the Tigercat L855C levelling buncher fitted with the new designed 5185 fixed bar saw head. This head was designed by Tigercat for controlled felling of large trees with a float feature for some shovelling capability. Heading east next to Perotti Brothers Enterprises blue gum operation, Nick Perotti was on-site to showcase their operation and the Tigercat H822C fitted with the HTH616C Waratah processor. This particular machine is fitted with the telescopic boom option which is quite rare in Australia as the standard Tigercat harvesting boom length is comparable with competitor machines with a telescopic boom fitted. This machine with the
telescopic boom fitted has a very impressive 11075mm reach. Next stop was the AKL Pty Ltd clear fell blue gum operation where Harvest Manager Jake Hughes took the time to show us around their high productivity 6x6 Tigercat 635D skidder. This particular machine was fitted with band-tracks on the rear bogie due to the steep terrain and ground conditions. All were impressed with the machine’s ability to climb and work on slopes that would have been impossible with a conventional 4x4 skidder. The original Tigercat L830C levelling buncher was supplying wood to the 635D skidder on this operation. This machine is fitted with the 5702 single post disc-saw that is comfortable with larger piece sized material but was working equally well in the smaller blue gum stand. Day one concluded with a drive to Hobart where we were joined by some other contractors from the southern forests for dinner and some enjoyable networking.
¢ Tas field day group.
Field Day 2: Heading out of Hobart, the first stop was the Onetrak Brighton facility located approximately 30km north of Hobart on the way to Launceston. Here we were able to see various excavator build-ups in progress. One machine was a Hyundai R210LC-9 High Chassis excavator that was being modified for the SA Green Triangle Blue Gum application fitted with overbody protection, off-line oil coolers and associated plumbing and operator cabin modification to meet the stringent Australian forestry design regulations. From here we met Kevin and Robert Muskett at their New Norfolk operation. They were kind enough to take us collectively to one of their softwood operations in the Derwent Valley. In between snow storms we were lucky enough to find a few hours sunshine and www.timberbiz.com.au
¢ Mechanised Logging’s L855C.
Australian Forests & Timber News
November 2015
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FIELD DAYS
¢ Tas field day group.
¢ Perotti Brothers’ H822C.
witness their several Tigercat machines working in a mixed terrain of mostly steep country. Falling the wood was the Tigercat L830C levelling feller buncher operated by Andrew Muskett. Keeping enough wood on the ground seemed no immediate issue and some time was spent around this machine where Steve Green from Tigercat explained the advantages of the Tigercat heavyduty four-way levelling system. Mathew Muskett was hard at work behind the controls of the impressive Tigercat LH855C levelling harvester fitted with a large Rosin processing head. The last machine we inspected on this operation was Dion’s Tigercat 1075B Series II forwarder fitted with the new Tigercat crane. This is the largest forwarder in the Australian market today and with the new crane, boasts significant advantages in lift force and slew torque not to mention some of the unique design features such as dual lift cylinders, hose swivel couplings and swing dampeners. The cleaver hose routing on the Tigercat 0.42m3 bunching grapple was liked by all. In summary it was a very informative couple of days and we would like to pass on our appreciation for all the contractors who took the time out of their busy schedule to see the latest model Tigercat machines in the work environment – where it really counts. A very special thank you to Anthony Brown of Mechanised Harvesting, The Perotti Brothers, Andrew Lette of AKL and his team and the Muskett family for allowing us all onto their worksite to view their operations and showcase their machinery in such a professional manner. Due to the success of this event we intend to arrange a similar twoday field trip in NSW in 2016. 24
¢ AKL’s 635D.
Onetrak and Tigercat Onetrak started in 2006 as a dealer for Hyundai construction equipment products. In 2012, Tigercat of Canada (purpose built forestry equipment manufacturer) appointed Onetrak as its dealer for Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia. In 2013, Onetrak was appointed sole distributor for Tigercat products in Australia. Onetrak is also responsible for marketing Hyundai equipment into forestry applications nationally. Onetrak is a proud supplier of some of the world’s leading heavy equipment. In addition to Tigercat forestry equipment, Onetrak is representing brands such as Hyundai Construction Equipment, Dressta dozers, Rotobec and Satco material handling attachments along with Berco undercarriage components. As well as expert sales experience, Onetrak offers genuine parts and service support across its entire range. Tigercat specialises in the design and manufacturing of premium quality forestry equipment and specialised off-road industrial equipment. Tigercat forestry systems are designed to provide lowest cost per tonne harvesting solutions. As a customer driven company
¢ Onetrak Brighton Forestry Conversion.
with strong engineering capabilities, Tigercat thrives on the design and continuous improvement of forestry and off road machinery. Tigercat timber harvesting systems achieve lowest production cost per tonne by optimizing efficiency, productivity, operator ergonomics,
Australian Forests & Timber News
November 2015
environmental impact, machine availability and useful lifespan. The Tigercat forestry line includes both tree-length and cut-to-length (CTL) systems. Tigercat offers a range of feller bunchers, skidders, loaders, loggers, harvesters, forwarders and felling and processing attachments. www.timberbiz.com.au
A NEW GENERATION OF
FOREST MACHINES NOW IN AUSTRALIA!
RANDALLS EQUIPMENT COMPANY is proud to be associated with PONSSE Plc Finland by introducing the full range of PONSSE forestry machines to Australia. PONSSE is the world leader in supplying the logging industry with productive and environmentally friendly cut-to-length harvesting systems. CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION RANDALLS EQUIPMENT COMPANY PTY LTD email: randalls@randalls.com.au www.randalls.com.au HEAD OFFICE VICTORIA Randalls Equipment Company 8 Wallace Avenue, Point Cook, Melbourne VIC Contact: Peter Randalls Ph: 03 9369 8988 WESTERN AUSTRALIA (NEW) Randalls Equipment Company 9B Charles Street, Albany WA Contact: Adam Bremner Ph: 0437 059 477
FORWARDERS: From 10.000 to 20.000 kg load capacity. HARVESTERS: PONSSE offers a full range of wheeled harvesters for the most challenging logging conditions. Six impressive models that range from the Beaver to the heavyweight Bear, including the new and very impressive ScorpionKing. The product range includes both six and eight-wheel harvesters in all size categories. Application ranges from harvesting softwood saw logs to harvesting & debarking eucalypt pulpwood.
A logger´s best friend www.ponsse.com
FORWARDERS
It’s fast and it works with ease!
“
IT’S UNBELIEVABLE it’s so fast. We’re pulling wood about 1.5km or probably even further but it’s so quick and you can get a good load on it.” That’s how Rod Keith, managing director of Monterey Logging has described his new Ponsse Forwarder. He only took delivery of it a couple of months back but already he’s impressed with the 8WD Ponsse Elephant King Forwarder ... the biggest in the Ponsse range. It was particularly designed for demanding conditions and heavy loads. The tractive force, powerful engine and the 20-tonne carrying capacity guarantee efficient timber transportation both on sloping sites and during long transports. He said he had no complaints about his previous Forwarders and added ... “ this is state-of-the-art so it’s got to be better and it was quite a bit cheaper -- it was a demo -- and it was the first one here. I get on pretty well with Randalls (Australian agent for Ponsse). I’ve bought a couple of heads from them and a machine. Their mechanic has done his apprenticeship on Ponsse,” said Rod. “You need someone who knows a bit about them. “They were all the things that swayed me to buy it,” he said. The durable frame structure, strong bogies, sturdy cylinderpowered frame oscillation lock complete with the high ground clearance ensure smooth operation and carefree operating hours, even under difficult operating conditions. The frame structures are durable and easy to maintain. The high-quality material choices and modern manufacturing
¢ Ponsse Elephant King Forwarder working in Pine clear fall.
technology maximise the service life and reliability of the machine even under demanding conditions. The construction of the new bogies is stronger than before, providing hours of carefree operating. On the operator comfort side Rod was quick to point out ... “It’s pretty good, not that I’ve driven it much, but the operator feedback is positive”. The fully upgraded Ponsse Elephant King cabin offers a viewpoint to the latest forest machine technology. It provides a working environment for skilled professionals who value comfort, safety and ergonomics. The ergonomics of the controls represent the cutting edge of forest machines and, thanks to the large cabin, wide windows and thin window pillars,
the visibility from the cabin is excellent in all directions. The new Ponsse Comfort forest machine user interface has been developed together with drivers and it utilises years of experience. Rod was also impressed with the load capacity . “Productivity and capacity, big difference, yep a big difference, probably a third more. A big difference!” And on fuel usage, he said ... “It’s OK if you compare the loads and distances were are doing. This machine has been doing fair distances so if it (site) was closer it would be very economical.” “Best thing I ever did was buy the new machines, even though you gotta pay for them! But there’s wood coming out everywhere,” he quipped.
Rod’s outfit had been operating in pine for the last 12 years and, according to him, “we finally got into doing some blue gum, harvesting plantations that we planted and managed”. His career in forestry started about 25 years ago. “I started planting and ripping with dozers about 25 years back and then got a job managing a plantation and then harvesting and went and made the silly mistake of going harvesting myself,” he joked. But, jokes aside, Rod is definitely impressed with “the King”. Ponsse builds eight models of forwarders from the smallest Gazelle model ( 10 ton capacity) to the Large Elephant King ( 20 ton capacity ) and is the world’s largest manufacturer of Forwarders and Rubber Tired Harvesters .
¢ The King working in blue gum plantations.
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FORWARDERS
Cat ® 584HD Forwarder well suited for work down under “Fast loader and tractive power that can transport large, heavy loads uphill, cycle after cycle”
C
A T E R P I L L A R’ S APPROACH to manufacturing forestry equipment is well in tune with the expectations of Australia’s loggers, according to Glenn Brown, a Caterpillar product specialist with oversight of the Cat® 584HD forwarder. Australian loggers are receptive to Caterpillar equipment, noted Brown. “Our operation ideals are somewhat similar,” he said. “We like machines that are a little more rugged built to handle diverse applications.” The Cat 584HD is ruggedly built and “well suited to rough terrain,” which loggers in Australia appreciate, said Brown.”They have big, heavy wood,” he noted. The Cat 584HD is designed and built to be a robust machine for many diverse environments and many styles of operator. For example, it boasts the largest centre oscillation articulation joint -- where the machine bends in the middle -of any forwarder on the market, according to Brown. “I wouldn’t want to apologize for weight if I put it in the right location,” said Brown, because it’s indicative of strong structural construction. That illustrates Caterpillar’s approach to designing and building the machine. The Cat 584HD forwarder, manufactured in North America, has a payload capacity of 20 metric tons and can transport logs a little over 7 metres long on a deck that is over 5 metres long. It is built for extended hours of use; its robust structure enables it to be rebuilt for a second life. The rugged front and rear frame structures, heavy duty cast articulation and large oscillation bearings are built for long service life in demanding forest applications. High stress areas have been reinforced for increased durability. The optional blade with wear resistant front cutting edge is purpose-built for clearing trails and pushing forest debris out of the way. The most important considerations for productivity are a fast loader and tractive power that can transport large, heavy loads uphill, cycle after cycle, according to Brown. The Cat 584HD forwarder fits the bill in both respects. The standard boom is “fast, speedy, powerful,” said Brown -- one of the fastest, strongest, and most reliable on the www.timberbiz.com.au
market. The forwarder is powered by the Cat C7 147 kW engine with ACERT™ Technology, providing fuel efficiency through high torque in the 1,400 to 1,600 rpm range. The workhorse engine is coupled with a field-proven hydrostatic propel system to provide maximum power on grade through a wide engine rpm and ground speed range, resulting in infinitely variable speeds at peak power and dynamic braking on steep terrain.
Enlarged hydraulic cooling capacity The Cat 584HD boasts an enlarged hydraulic cooling capacity, especially for the hydrostatic transmission. “Hydraulic cooling is something we have a lot of knowledge of,” said Brown, with Caterpillar having developed hydrostatic propel systems for wheel feller bunchers. “We know the value of a good cooling system to support the rugged use of hydrostats.” Fuel efficiency is enhanced by the over-sized cooling fan, which has its own hydraulic pump that includes a speed control modulated by the forwarder control system. The fan requires less horsepower and cools more quickly, allowing loggers to haul bigger loads, faster. The variable-speed cooling fan also helps to maintain component life by maintaining optimum fluid temperatures.
Fuel efficiency Besides the oversized cooling fan that turns more slowly, the Cat 584HD forwarder was engineered with other features for added fuel efficiency. For example, pumps are mounted inline as opposed to on a gearbox, and the large hydraulic pump doesn’t have to rotate as much as a smaller pump to keep oil flowing. The Cat 584HD provides the operator with excellent visibility, noted Brown, which impacts productivity. “The operator wants to be able to see the work area around him as easily as possible,” he said. “When travelling through bush and brush, he needs to be able to find wood left by the processor, and he needs good visibility around the machine.” The cab si de windows provide visibility without the need for the operator to strain or lean
to either side, simply turning his head, which reduces fatigue. “It is a very roomy cab...which operators appreciate.” The operator can easily swing around in the seat to run the loader. The cab also has very good egress and ingress, noted Brown, with a good stairway and a wider platform for the operator, who does not have to climb onto the tires for access. They are important features because research shows the majority of equipment-related injuries occur while entering or exiting cabs or from falling from machines.”It’s extremely safe,” said Brown.
Cab comforts The cab is ROPS (roll-over protective structures) certified for the entire weight of the forwarder, not just the front tractor section,
Australian Forests & Timber News
November 2015
resulting in a more robust cab. The comfortable, quiet cab features automatic temperature controls, low-effort ergonomic joystick controls, and storage compartments. All major components and systems are accessible through the forward-tilting engine canopy and hydraulic tilt cab. The valve banks are located beneath the rear window where they’re easy to access. Of course, service and support for the machine are important, noted Brown. “Every machine needs to be serviced and have a good support system available to it. Our Cat dealers in Australia are well positioned to provide product support for our machines.” For more information: www.cat.com 27
FORWARDERS
Komatsu’s “giant” is big, nimble, and doesn’t have much thirst
T
HE KOMATSU 895 Forwarder continues the popular legacy (market leader) of its predecessor the Komatsu 890.1, 890.2, and 890.3. There were over 200 units sold in Australia over a 12 year period and that’s not counting the old “Black 890” series. The “new” gentle giant is not just Komatsu’s biggest-ever Forwarder but it also represents an entirely new class when it comes to maximising everything from productivity and operational economy to ergonomic benefits. The 895 was released in Australian back in April 2013 and since then it has been widely accepted by Australia contractors with 55 units being delivered into the Australian market. Over this period it has been tested and testimonialised right across Australia. In fact, just to ensure this article covered all bases, we took the quest for views to every State we could and were able to interrupt some extremely busy contractors for their views. The general consensus was that the 895 Forwarder is a first class machine. The 895’s crane is one of the Forwarder’s most essential components and is crucial for productivity. The new 165F, one of the market’s most powerful cranes, has a high gross lifting and turning torque, and a weight-optimised linkage system that delivers high gross lifting force. The carrying capacity is massive. The new powerful engine minimises emissions and optimises fuel economy. The new 20-ton wheels with their 28.5- inch rims, provide higher ground clearance and a lower ground pressure. On the operator side there’s a noticeably larger cab – higher and wider with more legroom, more storage space and a quiet working environment. The large glass surfaces mean better visibility upwards and to the sides, which makes the crane operation easier and more relaxed. The new operator’s seat provides excellent comfort and work space, and offers many personal adjustments and settings. The new hand controls are ergonomically designed and well equipped. Michael Mangan (Mangan Logging, NSW) recent fleet of forwarders is made up of seven 890.3’s and now five 895’s. These units mainly work in unthinned and matured clear-fell Radiata pine. Michael was quick to add that one of the biggest improvements was visibility, “Our operators are very happy with the improved visibility,” and the noise levels in the cabin are well down, reducing operator fatigue at the end of the day. The load capacity is second to none, the bunk widener system is a big positive, gaining a much better payload, actually one of the best payloads in this class machine making it a very productive machine, and the crane geometry and lift power is again class-leading.” So far maintenance costs have been lower than the 890.3 giving more machine uptime. On its robustness his reply was ... “So far so good.” Michael says fuel economy was another strong point “achieving much better economy than the previous model”. Mangan Logging’s growing fleet of 895’s is expected to grow. Matt Leov (Total Harvesting, West Australia) operates three 895s, one 890.2 and one 890.3 in clear-fall Radiata and blue gum clear-fall which is used for export chips.
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¢ Komatsu 895 clearfall.
¢ 890... and the 895.
Continued on page 30
Australian Forests & Timber News
November 2015
www.timberbiz.com.au
BIGGER THAN EVER! AUSTimber 2016 will be the biggest forest products industry expo in the Southern hemisphere next year. We’ll have a great line up of forest machinery working in soft and hard wood as well as a range of field trips, manufacturing exhibitions, conferences and seminars to add to your knowledge. Centered on Traralgon in Victoria (a couple of hours out of Melbourne), it’s easy to get to with plenty of accommodation and heaps of other things to do before and after the event.
Tickets go on sale in November – watch out for Early Bird rates. For updates on what will be happening during the week of the event, bookmark www.austimber.org.au. Come and see us during the week of 11-16 April, 2016 Sponsored by
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I n c o r p o r a t i n g A U S T R A L A S I A N F O R E S T L O G G E R & S AW M I L L E R
www.austimber.org.au
FORWARDERS
Komatsu’s “giant” is big, nimble, and doesn’t have much thirst Continued from page 28
Matt bought the first of the 895s to hit Australia back in 2013 and is quick to add a strong list of positives covering the 895. “The visibility is great, it has a great load capacity of 20 plus tonne. “It’s got a strong/fast crane; easy to adjust the crane functions, the Maxi Xplorer control system is very user-friendly. “It’s has a big capacity grapple, too,” he says. Matt said the 895 has a smooth ride due to its large tyres, and great traction. He has also been impressed with the fuel economy ... “low fuel usage per ton”. “They’re very productive and the operators love driving them,” Matt says. If there were any points he saw as possible negatives he said “scheduled” maintenance was time consuming to complete (changing oil and filters, adjusting tappets etc;) but other maintenance is zero, and that the travel speed could be faster. “Otherwise, they are the best Forwarders on the market.” Anthony Brown (Mechanised Logging, Tasmania) has an 895 operating in clear-fell Radiata and, overall, he gives the 895 the thumbs up. “We had a bit of a software problem early on but it’s working pretty well now. “The load capacity is probably its best feature,” he says. “Operator visibility and comfort is excellent, and the bunk system overall is pretty good.”
Some 895 facts 1. Sales to date : 55 units
On the economy side, Anthony said fuel-wise costs per tonne would be down but couldn’t quantify it at this stage. Anthony has the 895 operating alongside an 890.3 on the same clear-fell job. “There’s a fair improvement in the load capacity between the 890.3 and the 895,” he says. “Basically, you could say it’s a better machine overall. However, we have some problems when it’s wet. It doesn’t seem to have the traction like the 890.3, probably because of the bigger wheels, you may be able to put it down to the lower ground pressure, we have worked around this problem a little by installing TRS tyres on the front, generally the 895 is a better machine overall. “ There are obviously a lot of positives about the 895 as Anthony is awaiting delivery of another 895 to work in eucalypt plantations clear-fell job. Alan Hoffman (Hoffman Bros, Victoria) is another with experience with both the 890 and the 895 and he maintains the 895 is a “definite improvement” ... not to say that the 890 is not a good machine either! “There’s a big improvement in the fuel burn,” he says, “ and the vision and the ergonomics and overall comfort for the operator are great.” Alan has two 895s working alongside an 890.1 in the Green Triangle (blue gum clear-fall for chip export) plus another couple of Timberpro 840s to cover the work. He says the crane operation is a lot more precise and smoother, and the better ground clearance is a plus. Again, overall, Alan says the 895 is a definite improvement on the 890.
¢ Komatsu 895 full load eucalypt.
¢ Blue Gum.
2. First sale in April 2013 to Total Harvesting W.A. Now have 3 units. 3. Units sold: i. 2013 : 9 ( Also sold 9 x890s prior to the release of the 895 in 2013.) ii. 2014 : 23 iii.. 2015 YTD : 23 4. Sales breakdown by State: NSW 14 units Victoria 11 units Queensland 9 units West Australia 8 units South Australia 6 units Tasmania 5 units Plus New Zealand 2 units. ¢ Pine thinnings.
¢ Pine clearfall.
Reliability and performance key factors
I
AN REID from Austimber Harvesting and Haulage in Morwell bought his first John Deere Forwarder machine in 2012 and hasn’t looked back. “I’ve bought quite a few more machines since then, the reliability and performance we get from using them at any specific job site has been outstanding. We’ve received so much positive feedback from our operators which is always an important consideration when choosing the right machine to best fit the job.” 30
Ian has since purchased another three John Deere Forwarders to help get the job done “John Deere provide excellent service and their availability to assist with the general maintenance of the machines is another reason we choose them more often than not,” Ian said. Ian’s fleet of JDs (4 Forwarders and 5 Harvesters) is quite impressive: 1 x 1510; 1x 1170; 3 x 1910; 1 x 1470; 3 x 1270 Australian Forests & Timber News
November 2015
www.timberbiz.com.au
BUSHFIRE PREVENTION
It’s time to fight fire with foresters Federal Government about to launch the first trials in Australian bush of ‘biomass removal’ By Ross Hampton Chief Executive Officer, Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA)
I
N THE control rooms of rural fire brigades all around Australia, men and women are peering at detailed terrain maps and pondering. They are trying to use science, weather data, experience and simply gut feel, to pick where the bushfires will start this year. Because they know there is no guess work about one thing - the bushfires are coming. As sure as summer follows winter, the flames are on their way. Sadly, it won’t be long now until our nightly television news is regularly full of smoke and thousands of orange clad volunteers with grimy, weary faces. The fact of bushfires in Australia is something we must of course live with. We are after all the seventh most forested nation on earth and even if we had no cigarette butts, matches or fire bugs we would still have lightning strikes during summer thunderstorms which would get the flames started. The real question is, are we doing all we can to reduce the intensity of the fires when they come? After years of argument the answer finally might be a hesitant, and very conditional, yes. The reason for that ‘yes’, is that the Federal Government is about to launch the first trials in Australian bush of ‘biomass removal’. This is an important first step to look at more innovative ways to reduce our fuel loads in addition to the usual ‘prescribed burning’ practices. Prescibed burning has been, and always will be, a major tool for fire , however, it isn’t the whole answer. The smoke creates health issues and the risks of managing even a ‘controlled burn-off’ close to towns and cities in an often narrow window of suitable weather makes it a highly challenging undertaking. ‘Biomass removal’ is also a process for reducing fuel load but instead of flames it uses machinery. The machines are sent into strategic zones (such as a bush strip alongside a suburb) to ‘open up’ the forest. This involves the removal of some small trees and shrubs in an attempt to reduce the impenetrable jungle of dead branches and fallen trees and reveal more of the forest floor. The goal is to reduce the fuel load that intensifies bushfires, increase access and allow better spaced trees to grow more vigorously. www.timberbiz.com.au
The machinery also removes what fire fighters call ‘ladder fuel’ which delivers the flames of a bushfire quickly to the top branches creating a far more deadly ‘crown fire’. The objective of biomass removal is not to completely stop fires passing through such areas. Rather, it is to reduce the available fuel so that a white hot inferno which mocks the suppression attempts of our largest fire fighting equipment, is reduced to something of lesser intensity able to perhaps be halted by cleared earth strips made by a bulldozer or managed by fire tankers and aircraft. If we are successful in transforming the bush in this way around key strategic areas – where it abuts our cities, for example — we might begin to reduce the annual
national anguish of losses of both life and property. And from my perspective, property includes the tens of thousands of hectares of our forestry trees and timber resources which are destroyed by out of control bushfires. A changing climate points to hotter, dryer summers and modelling suggests Australia’s threat of bigger bushfires is only going to grow. It is time to deal far more aggressively with the challenge than we have until now. And while all this might be new here, such an approach is certainly not novel. The United States has been driven by several years of devastating forest fires to reach for every tool at its disposal. That country is now spending
Australian Forests & Timber News
November 2015
$400 million over a decade, on a truly ambitious plan to work with large areas of strategic forest to reduce fuel load. Whilst the plan has its critics, and the US is certainly still dealing with major fire challenges, many scientists in that country are already claiming that the program is having a profound effect. It is predictable that there will be those in this country who will criticise the Federal Government for even starting in a very small way similar ‘biomass removal’ trials – no matter how carefully managed they are or how well protected the native fauna. To those who will say ‘better to have the bush burn than allow any biomass removal’, I would gently counsel a field trip to the Snowy Mountains. The mega fire which swept those thousands of hectares of hillsides in 2003 is ancient history for my young children. When we drive through that area they do ask however why the gum trees stand as lifeless giants in their silent ranks, bristling on hillsides and valleys as far as the eye can see. These thousands of mature Alpine Ash trees were caught in a series of infernos and the area has still not recovered. Biomass removal - combined of course with winter burning - is a must for this nation. The sooner we move out of trials and into serious activity the safer we all will be. 31
BUSHFIRE PREVENTION
Protecting timber and forestry from largescale bushfire with thermal detection
¢ Insight Robotic Bushfire Detection System with thermal imaging and 360° rotation.
E
VERY YEAR, more than 3% of the world’s vegetated landmass is devastated by bushfire. In addition, biomass fires account for nearly one fifth of all man-made carbon emissions.1 Although some level of bushfire is an important element in biodiversity, human activity and climate change have led to rapid and dangerous increases in their frequency and intensity worldwide. In Australia alone, the number of extreme fire danger rating days is expected to double by 2020.2 Despite the growth of the bushfire problem, not much has changed in how we’re addressing it. Tools and technology for fire fighting in the past 100 years have included industrial-scale solutions, such as fire planes and helicopters, and smaller scale innovations, such as flame-retardant suits and breathing masks for fire fighters. Yet the way we detect fires in the first place has not evolved much beyond a having someone stand in a tower or on a hill and hoping he or she spots a fire’s smoke plume before it gets too big. Unfortunately, this method is not very reliable. It presents entire industries such as forestry and timber with both a challenge and an opportunity because catching fires early means reduced spending on large-scale suppression efforts, less damage from destroyed property and natural resources, lower emissions, and fewer lives put in danger. Fire Protection Technologies specialises in fire protection systems and recognised the innovative technology developed by Insight Robotics, a revolutionary automated bushfire detection system capable of spotting fires while they are still small, within minutes of ignition. The system is based on thermal technology that provides real-time fire alerts and data to decision makers in land and resource management and fire fighting. With this data, key personnel can act quickly and
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decisively to suppress small bushfires before they spread and cause largescale social, environmental and economic damage. Fire Protection Technologies offers the Insight Robotic Bushfire Detection System, the only solution capable of pinpointing the exact GPS coordinates of a fire as small as a single 2m2 tree up to five kilometres away, spotting relatively larger fires at greater distances. The system is comprised of a network of InsightFD1 bushfire detection robots linked to a central control room. Each robot provides 360° scanning and is
equipped with thermal imaging and visible light cameras that monitor the forest 24/7, day and night, and in low visibilities (smoke, haze, fog, etc.) These cameras communicate to Insight Globe, our geospatial intelligence system (GIS), which displays critical data on a 3D model of the earth. The system fully automates the bushfire monitoring and detection process, empowering decision makers to respond quickly and effectively to emerging bushfires by providing them with relevant, real-time insights. The system utilises patented
Australian Forests & Timber News
November 2015
software algorithms that can extend the range of an affordable thermal sensor to identify the heat from a fire. It can also set a heat threshold level specific to the coverage area and environment to minimise false alarms. Since heat develops much faster than smoke, fires can usually be spotted and suppressed more quickly. However, the limitation of thermal detection is that the sensor must have line of sight to the fire. Other forms of bushfire detection, such as semi-automated smoke detection systems, make it possible to identify fires behind a hill that a robot would not be able to identify. However, these systems, which use CCTV in combination with smokeidentifying algorithms, require a substantial amount of human resources to actively monitor multiple screens. The CSIRO Australian scientific agency also noted that catching fires by smoke detection systems was “slower and less reliable than by a trained human observer.3” Insight Robotics has more than 65 robots operating and undergoing pilots in four continents -- all with 100% effectiveness in detecting bushfires within line of sight. In Jinan City, China, the system detected all of the fires that occurred in 2014, allowing each outbreak to be suppressed by a single fire truck. At an official demonstration in Guadalajara, Mexico, attended by four forestry agencies, seven of seven test fires were found within 15 minutes, four of those with an average time of under five minutes. In fire-prone Kelowna, Canada, the system detected a live fire two hours before any other method. Every minute a bushfire is allowed to burn, the damage it does and the cost to suppress it goes up exponentially. Early detection is therefore the key to a quick, coordinated response in stopping fires before they spread to unmanageable levels and cause disaster. Land, resource and fire managers won’t be able to prevent all bushfires, but with the latest innovations in automated detection and cost-effective thermal technology they will be better able to prevent disasters caused by them. To learn more: visit www.fire-protection.com.au or contact enquiries@fire-protection. com.au
Lloyd’s (2013). “Wildfire: A Burning Issue for Insurers?” 2 T he Climate Institute (2007): “Bushfire Weather in Southeast Australia” 3 CSIRO (2010): “Evaluation of Three Fire Detection Systems” 1
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BUSHFIRE PREVENTION
Above normal fire potential
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ARGE AREAS of southern Australia, especially along the east and west coasts extending inland, face above normal fire potential for the 2015-2016 fire season, despite many fires in some parts of the country over the last 12 months. The above normal forecast is mostly due to a strengthening El Nino over the Pacific Ocean, currently tracking as one of the strongest on record, but is made more complex this year by the influence of warmer sea temperatures in the Indian Ocean. There have also been significantly below average rainfalls over the last decade across almost all of eastern Australia, the west coast and Tasmania. Such underlying dry conditions mean that any surface moisture from recent rains will quickly decline once temperatures begin to warm. 2014 was Australia’s third warmest year since records began and, when combined with such long term rainfall deficiencies, an early start to the bushfire season is likely in many areas. The Southern Australia Seasonal
Bushfire Outlook is used by fire authorities to make strategic decisions on resource planning and prescribed fire management for the upcoming fire season. The outlook is decided at an annual workshop convened by the Bushfire and Natural Hazards CRC and the AFAC. Natural hazards research findings will continue to flow between Australia and New Zealand under a new agreement signed at the Bushfire and Natural Hazards CRC and AFAC conference in Adelaide. The Bushfire and Natural Hazards CRC and the New Zealand Natural Hazards Research Platform (NHRP) formalised a Memorandum of Understanding, cementing a relationship that has developed in recent years. The NHRP is similar to the CRC in that it is a multi-party research platform funded by the NZ Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, and is dedicated to increasing New Zealand’s resilience to natural hazards through high quality collaborative research.
¢ The map shows the bushfire outlook for southern Australia through to 2016.
WE TRY HARDER WITH YOUR FORESTRY EQUIPMENT FIRE SUPPRESSION AND PROTECTION Using only the highest quality fire suppression and protection systems, fire extinguishers, parts and components. Recon Industries Australia is a family business servicing the timber industry across Australia. We service, install, maintain and repair most types of fire suppressions systems fitted to all types of forestry equipment, plus complete annual inspections.
Call: Email:
Cameron or James Gray on (02) 4953 4131 jgray@reconindustries.com.au
RECON INDUSTRIES AUSTRALIA – Proudly Servicing the Timber Industry
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Australian Forests & Timber News
November 2015
33
Classifieds
Sell your used equipment, advertise your tender, offer your real estate or find your next employee. For rates and deadlines call Michael Dolphin on (03) 9888 4834 or email: m.dolphin@ryanmediapl.com.au
CLEARANCE
Milling & Processing Machinery Forest Equipment Specialist
MUST BE SEEN TO BE BELIEVED Once in a lifetime opportunity to purchase a complete near new M.E.M. Sawmill in excellent condition. This mill was commissioned in 2005/2006 at a cost of $7,400,000.00 This Mill consists of the following:-
John Deere 848H Skidder
Valmet 445EXL Feller Buncher
$198,000 inc. GST
$192,500 inc GST
Tigercat 635D Skidder
Hyundai R210LC-9 Excavator
$357,500 inc. GST
$108,000 inc. GST
Volvo EC290BLC Feller Buncher
Hyundai R250LC-7HC
$165,000 inc. GST
$104,500 inc. GST
Hyundai R210LC-7 Excavator
Kobelco SK260LC-8
$72,500 inc. GST
$77,000 inc. GST
• Log docking system (in-line) with air conditioned control cabin • Rosser head debarking system (in-line) with air conditioned control cabin • Automated log step feeder • In-line log scanner • Teletwin with air conditioned control cabin • Full computerised cutting system • Cobra 6 multi saw edger (6 x moving saws) with air conditioned cabin • Comprehensive end trim docking system • Manual fault docker • Semi-automated sectional size stacking system • Comprehensive waste end with separation of sawdust via blower and solid waste through a screened Nicholson chipper • Full electrics including transformer, power distribution boards for large and small power • Full pneumatic system including champion 85kw rotary screw compressor with refrigerated dryer, receiver and air lines • CCTV system throughout the mill • Full set drawings and auto CAD disk for machinery and foundations • State of the art saw shop complete, inclusive of band, circular and tipped circular for maintaining, tensioning, sharpening and repair • Impressive array of spares and parts.
ALL THE ABOVE AND MORE FOR ONLY $1,500,000 To view this mill on line please visit www.whittakersequipmentsale.com.au and watch this mill in action via the attached video link. For full list of plant and specifications of this mill please contact: Chris on (08) 9459 6877 – mobile 0409 083 977 or Geoff on (08) 9302 2022 – mobile 0409 302 200
Valmet 425EX + Waratah HTH622B
Valmet 890.2 Forwarder
$148,500 inc. GST
$77,000 inc. GST
For Sale
Wadkin XE220 moulder
Complete in good condition with cutters and blower.
Was $28,000+GST Now $22,400+GST 20% OFF
Wolfenden Twin Circular Resaw
30kw, ideal for high production of sawn battensfrom 150x38 feedstock, (or similar operation), Hydraulic feed. Was $18,000+GST Now $14,000+GST
Dankeardt multisaw
20% OFF
$18,000+GST
30kw, (takes up to 8 blades).
Profiled moulding sander High capacity, multi head, give away
$10,000+GST
Anthon 1.8m wide belt sander
Very heavy duty, high production machine. $15,000+GST
Loser - Dowell cut off machine x 2 No. 220
$3,500+GST Each
Loser - Dowell rod sander
$4,000+GST
4 Tonne Side loader forklift Perkins Diesel
$9,000+GST
Austral Timber Group Contact: Ken Baker 0438 643 992 or ken.baker@ubteam.com
FIREWOOD MILLS
For Information, please, call 0419-536 804 or email your postal address to info@firewoodmills.com.au
Kokums Cambi 35 Ring Debarker
BUNCHING GRAPPLES
If you are looking for a heavy-duty grapple that will sort, bunch and load all day, every day, then you need a Rotobec. Onetrak offers the complete range of Rotobec Bunching Grapples, Heavy-Duty Log Grapples and Multi-Stem Grapple Saws. Give us a call for more information.
1300 727 520
www.onetrak.com.au
Type 70-35 AA Model 84111 Features: Portable; spare knives; live infeed deck and outfeed deck Good condition - $15,000 +GST ono.
Contact: Richard Steiner 0417 293 179 Birnam Forests and Birnam Logging Pty Ltd
New model Easy50 available now!
Different sizes of mills with optional feeding table and drum cleaner. Tractor, Diesel Power Pack or Electric Power Pack driven models.
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Australian Forests & Timber News
November 2015
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Whittakers Timber Products at Greenbushes Western Australia has now completed all production on site, everything is now on the market and must be sold. View our website www.whittakersequipmentsale.com.au All plant & equipment is being offered at super low prices on an as is where is basis! The Company Directors say, “SELL IT ALL” Complete near new 2006 MEM sawmill
1 x band saw head rig and carriage 3 x one man bench saws 1 x 6 blade edger 3 x fault dockers Assorted green mill transfer decks, chain and spares Complete automated stacking line Comprehensive saw shop 1 x complete fulgrum 525HP chipping plant 4 x 120m3 HB conventional kilns (installed 2006) Kiln sawdust/thermal oil heating system 3 x Weinig 22B moulders including infeed/outfeed system 4 x manual up-cut fault dockers Assorted dry mill outfeed decks 2 x MPB endmatchers max width 150mm 1 x MPB endmatcher max width 200mm 1 x optimizing docker Grecon/Dimter 350 model Tool grinding shop, assorted heads and profiles Assorted dust extraction systems including cyclones and all pipe Assorted forklifts from 2.5ton to 17 ton (14 x machines in total) 4 x Loaders with log grabs, standard bucket and oversize chip bucket Compressors, air storage vessels, air line and refrigerated dryers
Now you can check our classifieds in the paper - and online Valmet 860 Forwarder. 11,000 hours in well maintained condition. All service records available. Tyre wear approx. 40%. Comes with rear tracks.
www.timberbiz.com.au/aft/Classifieds $POA
IN PRINT & ONLINE!
Contact: Kevin Muskett 0428 144 984 - Tasmania
FOR SALE - CHAINBAR OILS 200L - $286 + FREIGHT 1000L Available (Samples can be supplied) Made from gear oils. Hydraulic oil also available from $1.32/L
- Call for freight quote Now also delivering to Canberra and Newcastle.
(03) 9888 4834
PH: 0408 921 669
Huge inventory of smaller items
View our website www.whittakersequipmentsale.com.au or telephone Chris on (08) 9459 6877 – mobile 0409 083 977 or Geoff on (08) 9302 2022 – mobile 0409 302 200
Australian Forests & Timber
Classifieds
Sell your used equipment, advertise your tender, offer your real estate or find your next employee. For rates and deadlines call Michael (03) 9888 4834 or email: m.dolphin@ryanmediapl.com.au
In PRINT & ONLINE www.timberbiz.com.au
Australian Forests & Timber News
November 2015
35
The real BIG forwarder…
NEXT NEXT NEXT BIG BIG BIG STEP STEP STEP
NEW NEWADVANTAGES ADVANTAGES NEW ADVANTAGES WITH WITHKOMATSU KOMATSU WITH KOMATSU
Komatsu
Introducing Introducing
Komatsu Komatsu
Introducing
Komatsu
The all new Komatsu Forest big forwarder for softwood and hardwood logging providing; • Larger 20T capacity for increased production
• Improved fuel economy for lower cost
• Powerful transmission for steep terrain
• Largest Wheels for increased capacity
Komatsu Forest sets new standards in forwarding plus local factory support offering real benefits to contractors.
www.komatsuforest.com.au www.komatsuforest.com.au www.komatsuforest.com.au
Komatsu Forest Pty Ltd. 11/4 Avenue of Americas Newington NSW 2127 Australia T: +61 2 9647 3600 E: info.au@komatsuforest.com