Australian timber industry news

New Zealand’s Forest Owners Association and Forest Industry Contractors Association have come together to establish a new joint Training Committee to strengthen how the sector approaches vocational training. Source: Timberbiz The new committee is comprised of eight individuals, with four representatives from key industry organisations, who will provide coordinated leadership and ensure training systems reflect the real needs of forest owners, contractors and the wider workforce. This includes one representative from Ngā Pou a Tāne, bringing a Te Ao Māori perspective to the table, and another from the Farm Forestry Association, ensuring the voice of small-scale forest owners is represented. Kevin Ihaka, a respected forestry contractor and board member of both FICA and Muka Tangata, has been elected as the new Committee chair. He brings extensive experience and insight into forestry training. The committee’s work will focus on the following priorities over the next one to two years: The 2025 rollout of vocational education reform, following the current consultation process The scheduled review of forestry qualifications in 2025 Developing better forecasting tools to anticipate workforce needs more accurately using a wider range of data These areas offer important opportunities to strengthen the way training is delivered and ensure it keeps pace with the changes affecting the forestry sector. The new committee reflects a shared commitment by FOA and FICA to work more closely on long-standing challenges in training, such as fragmented feedback loops, duplicated effort and misalignment between funding and industry needs. By bringing together forest owners and contractors in a structured way, the committee is well placed to advocate for training solutions that are practical, coordinated and future-focused. It also provides a mechanism to respond more effectively to government consultations and policy developments, helping ensure the industry’s voice is clearly heard in decisions that impact its workforce. The ultimate aim of the committee is to help the sector build a more skilled and adaptable workforce—one that is well equipped to respond to ongoing change, whether that’s through new technology, environmental requirements or evolving job roles. By improving how training is planned, delivered and evaluated, FOA and FICA hope to better support both new entrants to forestry and those already working in the sector who are looking to upskill. The formation of the Joint Training Committee marks a step forward in collaboration between two key parts of the forestry sector. It reflects a desire to move beyond business as usual and take a more strategic approach to workforce development. As the work of the committee progresses, FOA and FICA are confident that this partnership will help create a more responsive, sustainable and effective training system for the future of New Zealand forestry

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) acknowledges the World Forest ID (WFID) report, which revealed troubling evidence of incorrect harvest location claims in some FSC-certified products in the UK. Source: Timberbiz FSC confronts these findings with unwavering commitment to accountability. There is no room for compromise in our mission to promote environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial, and economically viable management of the world’s forests. The report identifies issues with birch products from countries bordering Russia and Belarus, areas under heightened scrutiny due to sanctions. The anonymized nature of the study limits our ability to pinpoint specific actors, but FSC is not standing idle, it is taking decisive action to safeguard the integrity of its certification system. Since withdrawing certification from Russia and Belarus in 2023, FSC has prioritized eliminating risks of illegal timber from Russia entering our supply chains. The comprehensive measures include: Eurasia Integrity Workplan (2024): A rigorous ongoing investigation of over 800 certificate holders across the Eurasian region, encompassing: Transaction verification investigations to detect false claims and other fraudulent behaviour in birch wood panel supply chains, which have yielded some preliminary results. Isotope-based wood sample testing, to verify timber origins. Targeted investigations into certificate holders suspected of misconduct. Auditor training to enhance scrutiny in vulnerable supply chains. Supply chain integrity measures in association with Assurance Services International (ASI): Ongoing transaction verification of birch plywood supply chains, launched in 2023, has yielded preliminary findings. Field investigation in Kazakhstan (2024), which resulted in two companies exiting FSC and one being blocked from seeking recertification. Unyielding Commitment to Integrity Findings of the report are a call to action, and FSC is answering with urgency. While the study’s anonymized data restricts immediate investigations, it invites stakeholders to provide actionable evidence. FSC stands ready to investigate and enforce consequences swiftly, in line with its stringent protocols. When FSC finds compelling evidence against companies who intentionally try to deceive the certification system, FSC will revoke its FSC certificate and block them from re-entering the FSC system. Since 2020, FSC has blocked 77 certified companies for deliberately making false claims on their products or for acting with malicious intent. The certification represents a commitment to sustainable and responsible management of the world’s forests and forest product supply chains. FSC is defending that promise through innovation, transparency, and accountability. Any breach of trust will be met with swift, decisive action.

The American Wood Council (AWC) has released a new, first-of-its kind online tool designed to help users better understand where their wood products are coming from and the safeguards in place throughout the supply chain to ensure sustainability measures. Source: Timberbiz The tool will provide greater insight into the sourcing of wood products used in low-and zero-carbon construction. The pilot project of the website was funded by the Softwood Lumber Board and the US Endowment for Forestry & Communities funding. The new Wood Sourcing Tool tells the sustainability story through the incorporation of data based on a wood product’s mill grade stamp or region, information critical to tracking a specific product’s journey from the forest to the end user. This new tool also features a set of frequently asked questions about sustainable forestry and regional facts about wood sourcing, information that can give users broader understanding about the wood products being used in buildings across the country. “As questions around the sustainability of fibre supply continues to grow alongside interest in mass timber in commercial construction, this online Wood Sourcing Tool promises to provide regional, robust data that will provide assurances being sought by the architect, engineering and construction communities,” said AWC Vice President of Markets & Sustainability Rachael Jamison. The sourcing data on the site is based on the ASTM D7612-21 standard, which offers a robust and objective framework for identifying wood product sources. Fiber sourcing data is provided by AWC member companies with manufacturing facilities in the United States and is updated on an annual basis, with 2021 data the most recent available and shown on the site. When assessing the sustainability of wood products, there are three categories that are applied: Non-Controversial – products from non-controversial, or legal, sources are from geographic areas with a low risk of illegal activity or are compliant with legal or proprietary standards. Responsible– products from responsible sources are from geographic areas in compliance with an independently certified procurement standard or from geographic areas with programs that implement best management practices. Certified – products from certified sources are independently certified to an internationally recognized forest management certification standard. Each gives different assurances of the practices that take place in the forests where the wood is grown and at the manufacturing site.  

The European Commission is providing further simplifications and reducing the administrative burden to facilitate the implementation of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). In this context, it has published new guidance documents in view of the Regulation’s entry into application at the end of this year for Member States, operators and traders. Source: Timberbiz With these clarifications and simplifications, the Commission is also replying to feedback from its international partners. With these simplifications, the Commission is delivering on its commitment to the European Parliament and the Council, while guaranteeing regulatory certainty within the boundaries of the Regulation. The updated guidance and Frequently Asked Questions will provide companies, EU Member States’ authorities and partner countries with additional simplified measures and clarifications on how to demonstrate that their products are deforestation-free. Both documents reflect the input from Member States, partner countries, businesses, and industry. This will also guarantee harmonised implementation of the law across the EU. The simplifications introduced will be further complemented by a Delegated Act, published also today for public consultation. The Act provides further clarifications and simplification on the scope of EUDR, addressing stakeholders’ request for guidance on specific categories of products. This will also avoid unnecessary administrative costs for economic operators and authorities. Finally, the Commission is currently finalising the country benchmarking system through an Implementing Act. It will be adopted no later than 30 June 2025 following discussions with Member States. Together, all these measures will lead to a currently estimated 30% reduction of administrative costs and burden for companies. This will ensure a simple, fair and cost-efficient implementation of this key piece of legislation. The EUDR has already led to positive developments and action on the ground to fight deforestation, climate change and biodiversity loss. Key simplification measures With today’s new guidance documents, the Commission has introduced a number of simplification measures, for example: Large companies can reuse existing due diligence statements when goods, previously on the EU market, are reimported. This means that less information needs to be submitted in the IT system; An authorised representative can now submit a due diligence statement on behalf of members of company groups; Companies will be allowed to submit due diligence statements annually instead of for every shipment or batch placed on the EU market; Clarification of ‘ascertaining’ that due diligence has been carried out, so that large companies downstream benefit from simplified obligations (a minimal legal obligation of collecting reference numbers of Due Diligence Statement (DDS) from their suppliers and using those references for their own DDS submissions now applies). All the updated measures are expected to significantly reduce the number of due diligence statements that companies need to file, replying to key industry demands. The goal of these simplifications for due diligence statements is to ensure easy and efficient data entry for all users. The Commission has strengthened dialogue with third countries, businesses, civil society and global partners to facilitate implementation and support preparation through dedicated meetings and online trainings since 2024 in line with our Strategic Framework for Cooperation and Engagement. The Commission will continue responding to feedback from stakeholders, EU Member States and partner countries to assist traders and operators with implementation on the ground and provide further guidance, as necessary. In 2024, the Commission already held over 300 dedicated meetings on the EUDR with stakeholders, including global partners, to facilitate implementation. To support preparation, the Commission has already offered over 50 webinars with 15,500 places for online trainings on the use of the Information System open to all interested stakeholders, supported by online videos in multiple languages and a training system for familiarisation. The Commission also scaled up support to global partners under its Team Europe Initiative on Deforestation-free Value chains (EUR 86 million) to support partner countries transitioning to sustainable, deforestation-free, and legal value chains.

Hear first-hand from Tasmanian farmers about their experiences growing and managing trees for timber, carbon and other on-farm benefits at this year’s AgFest in Carrick, Tasmania. Source: Timberbiz AgFest is a fantastic opportunity for farmers and landowners to engage directly with experts and learn more about sustainable timber growing practices. You have the chance to have face-to-face chats about the benefits and techniques of growing timber on a farm. At the AgFest Table Talk on Thursday, 1 May you will get to hear from two experienced Tasmanian farmers who have successfully integrated agroforestry and silvicultural systems into their enterprises enhancing both sustainability and profitability. One-time Australian Tree Farmer of the Year John Lord and The Back Run owner Sarah Clark will share their insights on growing and managing trees for timber, carbon, and other on-farm benefits. Explore the world of forestry with Private Forests Tasmania and TasFarmers at site 704, 706 and 708 on Seventh Avenue on 1-3 May. AgFest are multi-award-winning agricultural field days organised by volunteer members of Rural Youth Tasmania. These young, passionate and innovative members spend countless hours planning, working, managing and promoting the event to ensure everyone enjoys the AgFest experience. AgFest 2025 is on 1-3 May in the Paddock, Carrick from 8:00am-4:00pm each day. For more information visit: https://agfest.com.au/  

This article was originally published by the Forest Owners Association, a key collaborator on the Pakuratahi Land Use Study. The second Pakuratahi Land Use Study, a groundbreaking initiative in New Zealand’s Hawke’s Bay, is investigating the environmental impacts of forestry and farming to shape sustainable land management practices. Sources: NZ Forest Owners Association, Scion By comparing a pine forest catchment in Pakuratahi with an adjacent farmed catchment in Tamingimingi and a native forest catchment (Fisher’s Block), the study tracks water quality, soil health and aquatic ecosystems to inform forestry practices amid climate challenges. In 2024, led by James Powrie and the FOA/FFA Environment Committee and backed by the Forest Growers Levy Trust, the project made significant progress in its mission to document productivity with environmental stewardship for the side-by side differing land cover types. The original study, started nearly 30 years ago, examined the environmental outcomes of a farmed catchment versus a radiata pine forest, aiming to address the question of whether land in forestry or pasture produces more sediment. This second study, Pakuratahi version 2.0, aims to provide evidence right across the harvest cycle from pre- to post-harvest to next crop establishment to build an understanding of the environmental effects of harvesting and re-establishment. In this study, the second rotation harvest will also be compared to the first and a native forest catchment has been added. The study will use modern tools like environmental eDNA and LiDAR and will generate a template for use in studying other catchments around New Zealand. A cornerstone of the year’s work was the finalisation of a 15-year project plan and the compilation of baseline data into a comprehensive ‘story map’ to guide future research. The plan focuses on data collection, catchment monitoring, education and governance to improve forestry practices amid rising climate risks. A flexible three-year operational plan will be updated annually to adapt to emerging research opportunities. Water and soil monitoring progressed with two water quality stations scheduled for periodic sampling from early 2025. Soil quality assessments, aligned with the regional Soil Quality Monitoring programme, began across varied land covers, including juvenile and mature forest blocks. These efforts will inform long-term environmental strategies. Fish surveys, conducted via electric fishing and eDNA sampling, revealed thriving aquatic ecosystems. Pakuratahi’s pine forest stream teemed with koaro, a whitebait species, indicating high water quality. While Tamingimingi’s pasture stream showed similar biodiversity, the native forest stream had fewer fish, possibly due to habitat constraints. These valuable results offer insights into how land use affects freshwater ecosystems. LiDAR technology mapped erosion patterns before and after Cyclone Gabrielle, enhancing the team’s knowledge of sediment movement. A new Ministry for the Environment and Ministry for Primary Industries-backed study will expand the new soil monitoring approaches across seven land cover types including pine plantations, pasture and native forest. This study will leverage LiDAR and satellite data and aims to refine how we measure the long-term environmental effects of land use. Looking ahead to 2025, the project aims to deliver its first full year of baseline stream monitoring data, establish sediment monitoring and undertake detailed geology and soil studies. A public web portal will be launched to help tell the story behind the data and increased outreach is planned throughout the year to share knowledge and the Pakuratahi study continues to pave the way for environmentally conscious forestry.

Throughout his life, Craig Collins has journeyed around the country from being a self-proclaimed vagabond, to a Primary School Teacher, and finally finding home as a Drymill Analyst. Source: Timberbiz Over the past 30 years, he has dedicated his working life to OneFortyOne’s Jubilee Sawmill in Mount Gambier. “After finishing school, I was a roustabout around northern SA, then spent a year as a vagabond and beach bum in Perth,”Mr Collins said. “Eventually, I moved to Adelaide, became an optometric assistant, then spent two years in Darwin. “I returned to Adelaide, and attend Underdale College, now Uni SA, and completed a Diploma in Primary School Teaching. “I taught for six years at Glenburnie and McDonald Park Primary. “ Mr Collins found his way to the Jubilee Sawmill in 1995. “In the ‘90s, it was challenging to secure a full-time teaching job, and I wanted to buy a house, and needed a full-time position to get a loan,” he said. “I secured a position in Dry Mill A on the Stetson Ross line. “Back then, it was all manual labour, which I loved. “Transitioning from teaching to this role felt liberating, and I’ve been here ever since”. Mr Collins now works as an operator and analyst in Dry Mill A. “Once the orders come in, I input the data into the computers and monitor the line to ensure everything is running smoothly,” he said. “If something goes wrong, I investigate the issue and try to come up with a solution with the help of the leadership team”. In his spare time, Mr Collins loves spending time with his 92-year-old mum, taking her shopping and out for coffee with friends. “Mum can’t drive, so I take her out to do things that she wouldn’t otherwise be able to do,” he said. When he’s not taking care of his mum, he enjoys spending time with his family and friends, going for drives to see the countryside, and savouring a good coffee. “One of the biggest changes during my time here has been the modernisation of the physical work on the line,” Mr Collins said. “Introducing robotics and computers has made the work easier and less labour-intensive, while also increasing the speed. “When I first started, we were producing 30,000 lineal meters per shift, and now we are doing up to 306,000 lineal meters.” Mr Collins said the constant changes are both the best and most challenging part of his job. “I enjoy the daily challenges and the fact that every day is different. “The challenging part is trying to overcome problems on the line, it doesn’t always work out how you like, but it’s satisfying when you succeed. “When you have a good day, the rewards are great. “The camaraderie with good friends and workmates, along with the great interactions with colleagues, makes the workplace a rewarding environment”. Mr Collins’ resilience in adapting to change and finding joy in both his professional and personal life is something to be admired.

At a recent Try a Trade & Employment Expo in Tumut, NSW, Forestry Corporation of NSW gave students an immersive and hands-on look at modern forestry using ForestLearning‘s ForestVR. Source: Timberbiz FWPA’s ForestLearning initiative supports the education of the next generation with valuable learning resources for teacher and educators. By having access to quality, curriculum aligned teaching resources, the program ensures schoolteachers, educators and the public are served with evidence-based information on Australian forests and wood products. One of the most popular resources is the teaching tool and library of virtual reality and 360° videos, ForestVR. With everything from drone technologies and eucalyptus leaves to ForestVR virtual reality headsets on display, students discovered how forestry careers blend science, technology, environmental stewardship and practical skills — all aligned with the real-world curriculum topics many teachers are already covering in subjects like science, geography, and design & technologies. At the FCNSW booth, students were invited to: Touch and explore native and plantation species like eucalyptus and pine See forestry tech in action with drone demos and interactive mapping apps Connect to careers through casual conversations with team members in both boots and suits — showing the wide range of pathways in forestry Experience ForestVR™, stepping into Australian forests to witness 30 years of forest growth and management, sustainable harvesting with high-tech machinery, and advanced timber processing using laser scanners and ultrasound. They also experienced a “day in the life” of forestry professionals from environmental foresters to wood processing cadets gaining insight into real-world careers and sustainable forest management in action. “ForestVR provided students the ultimate immersive experience,” said Billie-Jo Brown, Southern Planning Manager at FCNSW. As this event showed, students were eager to explore the environment in new ways especially when it’s immersive, interactive, and real-world context. ForestVR helps industry event exhibitors introduce complex topics like forest cycles, land use, and sustainable design in a way that’s engaging and helps to improve understanding of their important work. The ForestVR Loan Kit is ideal for use at community events, trade shows, school open days, and field days, where it serves as an eye-catching attraction that educates and inspires attendees. By providing an immersive, first-hand look at Australia’s forest industries, members can spark meaningful conversations about sustainability, forestry, and renewable resources. FWPA members can book a ForestVR Loan Kit through ForestLearning’s online request form at https://fwpa.com.au/tool/forestvr-loan-initiaitve/

The Greens have put forward their idea of what should be happening in Tasmania with native forest policy, and it is important that the forestry industry keeps abreast of what this party is proposing. The article below appeared in Pulse Tasmania. Sources: Timberbiz, Pulse Tasmania A bold new proposal has been put forward by the Greens to end Tasmanian native forest logging while creating thousands of new jobs in conservation and eco-tourism. The Greens say their comprehensive $3.98 billion plan to phase out native timber harvesting in the island state over 20 years would be funded by increasing taxes on corporations and billionaires. The proposal would see Tasmania’s Regional Forest Agreement repealed and the logging industry’s exemption from national environmental laws removed. Greens Senator for Tasmania Nick McKim said the state could lead the way in climate action and forest protection. “Our forests are a global treasure. They store carbon, protect wildlife and inspire wonder. They should be protected for future generations,” McKim said. “During global biodiversity and climate crises, Tasmania can lead the way in climate action and forest protection. We’ve got the people, the science and the opportunity to build a future based on restoration and care, not destruction.” The plan promises to create 3,579 new jobs in forest restoration, conservation, firefighting, education and sustainable tourism. The say these new jobs significantly outweigh the approximately 290 positions currently in native forest logging. It also includes $50 million to establish new National Parks across Tasmania, drawn from the Greens’ proposed $5 billion Protected Areas Fund. Tasmania remains one of just two Australian states still permitting widespread native forest logging. “With political courage and public investment, we can support those workers and create thousands more good, meaningful jobs that actually heal the land,” McKim said. Tasmania’s Minister for Business, Industry and Resources, Eric Abetz, has previously said that Tasmania’s forestry industry “provides an exceedingly high degree of environmental protection and sustainability”. “We are blessed in Tasmania to have a sustainable, word-class native forestry sector that puts food on the table for thousands of families,” he said in January.  

In the lead up to the Federal poll AFCA and AFPA will be provide a joint election briefing for members next Wednesday 30 April. Source: Timberbiz The briefing will include an overview of AFPA’s election activities, where the parties are positioned on forest industries and results of its advocacy and discussions of potential outcomes and priorities for the next parliament. If you have any questions you would like to have answered during this briefing, you can send these to Tim Lester at tim@afca.asn.au To register for the meeting: https://meeting.zoho.com.au/meeting/register?sessionId=1475101304

Grants of up to $1,500 are now available to drought affected farming families and rural small business owners, for direct, practical support, through the State Government’s Rural Support Grant. Source: Timberbiz Delivered through Rural Business Support (RBS) from the Malinauskas State Government’s Drought Support Package, this assistance offers relief to help cover essentials like council rate, power bills, vehicle repairs and school costs. The $55 million Drought Support Package, which is in addition to the $18 million in initial assistance announced in November 2024, brings State Government’s total drought relief investment to $73 million. The grant is delivered via the RBS Relief Fund, the charity arm of RBS, and is designed to help families who are working with the Rural Financial Counselling Service, which helps to meet people where they are, providing practical relief so they can focus on finding a way forward. The $1,500 grants will assist to help cover essential costs such as: Council rates Utility bills Medical appointments and prescriptions Vehicle repairs School costs and household needs. “Our support package was always designed to provide household relief, as well as long term assistance for our primary producers across the state,” said South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas. “This practical assistance ensures our rural communities aren’t faced with unpaid invoices, skipping medical appointments, giving up on school opportunities, or quietly going without.” Farming families and rural small and family business owners can start their Rural Financial Counselling journey by contacting Rural Business Support on 1800 836 211 or by visiting https://www.ruralbusinesssupport.org.au/ The Government has also quadrupled the processing team for the On-farm Drought Infrastructure Grants, through a whole-of-government mobilisation effort. This means vital infrastructure support can be delivered more quickly.

The Norwegian Wood Industry Federation (Treindustrien), in collaboration with the European Timber Trade Federation (ETTF) and the European Organisation of the Sawmill Industry (EOS) is holding the International Softwood Conference 2025 in the Norwegian capital, Oslo. Source: Timberbiz The conference will explain the latest updates on the international market, including trends, facts, and analysis. The agenda covers various aspects related to the competitiveness of wood, the availability of raw materials, and market opportunities. The conference provides an opportunity to thoroughly examine trends in the timber market, focusing on facts and figures for softwood production and consumption in the most relevant countries worldwide – not just in Europe. It will be a diverse and rich program featuring hands-on speakers with outstanding knowledge of the industry and the market. In times of uncertainty and rapid, significant changes, the conference offers a unique opportunity to come together, expand your network, and get new insights. The event starts on the morning of 22 October when you can choose between five different study tours: A customer-driven production line at Bergene Holm Haslestad, with exact cutting of wood based on specific customer orders. A modern glulam production at Moelven Limtre, including a guided tour of the Mjøstårnet high-rise building. Prefabricated element production at Ringsaker Veggog Takelementer (RVT), with a tour of the Mjøstårnet high-rise building included. Industrial-made wood building modules at Moelven Byggmodul, with a tour of the Mjøstårnet high-rise building included. Wood paint factory at G3 Gausdal Treindustrier, with a tour of the Mjøstårnet high-rise building included. In the evening, there is a cocktail reception at the Høymagasinet venue, located on the medieval grounds of the Akershus fortress in Oslo. On 23 October, the International Softwood Conference will be held at the Clarion Hotel Oslo, in the heart of the city centre. Lunch will be at the nearby Opera House, an architectural marvel and signature landmark rising from the fjord. More details on booking will be available soon.

The World Expo serves as a global platform that unites people and innovations from around the world to tackle challenges facing humanity on an international scale. This year Stora Enso is proud to be a part of the event that welcomes tens of millions of visitors in Osaka, Japan as a partner of the Czech National Pavilion. Source: Timberbiz More than 800 m³ of Sylva CLT elements are being used for the ground-breaking PEFC-certified wood structure of the pavilion with a glazed façade aimed to inspire the world with its innovative use of materials. “Our partnership with the Czech National Pavilion gives us a unique opportunity to present one of the tallest cross laminated timber (CLT) buildings in Japan on the largest stage of global innovation, here at the World Expo at Osaka,” said Lars Völkel, Executive Vice President, Stora Enso Wood Products division. “Stora Enso already has a long history of supplying high quality posts and beams and sawn wood to Japan. Thanks to CLT´s leading sustainable performance, its well-being benefits for the tenants and last but not least, its improving financial competitiveness we see an increasing demand for wooden commercial and multi-storey residential buildings in the region. “I am sure the pavilion will serve as a stunning example of the unique structures that can be built using Sylva by Stora Enso kit of prefabricated wood-based products for low-carbon buildings,” Japan’s deep-rooted tradition of wooden architecture exemplified by the Horyu-ji Temple from 607 AD, the world’s oldest surviving wooden building continues to evolve today. “The Japanese government actively pro-motes timber use in construction, including non-residential buildings, to cut carbon emissions and support a circular economy. This aligns with Stora Enso’s mission to do good for people and the planet by replacing non-renewable materials with renewable products,” said Satoshi Yamada, Sales Director Japan, Wood Products, Stora Enso. The eye-catching Czech National Pavilion occupies a prominent ocean-front location, offering visitors a truly immersive experience. Its standout position next to the water makes it one of the most visually striking structures at the Expo. A 260-meter-long educational trail winds through the site, providing stunning views of Osaka Bay. At its heart is a multifunctional auditorium that will host a rich and engaging program throughout the exhibition, making it a hub for learning and cultural exchange. Inside, the pavilion features a dynamic 402 m² exhibition space, with widths ranging from 1.8 to 7 meters and soaring up to 12 meters in height. The design highlights both architectural innovation and sustainable construction, brought to life through Stora Enso’s Sylva CLT elements made in Czechia with wood from sustainable managed local forests. Construction began in mid-September 2024, and by mid-December, the main structure was completed. This was followed by the installation of the pavilion’s signature glazed spiral, adding a modern and elegant finishing touch. The World Expo in Osaka will be open from 13 April to 13 October 2025. The Czech National Pavilion is a must-visit for anyone passionate about architecture, engineered wood, and environmental stewardship.

In the mountains of Mexico, trees are harvested differently than in Alberta Canada’s comparatively flat forests. The forestry field tour to Mexico took undergraduate students from the depths of forests to university labs and even industry. Sources: Timberbiz, University of Alberta, Bev Betkowski, photo Brad Pinno. The logs are cut down and then hoisted up the steep slopes on a powered cable, something ALES fourth-year forestry student Krystina Smid had never seen before. Part of a visit to a family-run logging operation, the experience was one of her “favourite days” during a forestry field tour to Mexico, organized by the Department of Renewable Resources. “They have different machinery than we do, and it was such a good experience to see how other places use different techniques, but have the same outcome as we do,” says Smid, one of 11 undergraduate forestry students who took the trip. “It was an amazing opportunity to see something new.” Home to 138 million hectares of trees and a growing number of timber production industries, Mexico offered students a look at different types of forests and forest management, says associate forestry professor Brad Pinno, who co-led the trip with ALES instructor Brian Roth. “The country has a huge variety of forest ecosystems; we saw five different forest zones going up one mountain. That’s not a level of diversity we can show students in Alberta.” The trip also included visits to the headquarters of Mexico’s National Forestry Commission, a family-run sawmill operation, a research station, a national park and university forestry labs. “By seeing different ways of practising forestry, students are able to think through and improve on the ways we are doing things,” Mr Pinno said. “It makes you a better forester where you are.” The various excursions touched on the country’s silvicultural and harvesting methods, which caught Ms Smid’s interest. She noticed, for example, that the logging operation they visited was only harvesting trees already damaged by pests or disease. Known as salvage logging, the practice differs from the clearcutting approach used in Canadian forestry and allows the forest area to retain more of its ecological integrity. “Seeing a different management technique reminds you that there are other possibilities; we shouldn’t be complacent about doing things in just one way.” Ms Smid and her fellow students also visited a lab at the University of Guadalajara where bioplastics were being processed from the underused parts of trees – a “different side of forestry you don’t always think about,” she said. “It’s a reminder that forestry can be a lot broader than just one product.” Offered to students through Ren R 401, the trip helped support the course’s goals of exploring forestry production, conservation, sustainable management and community engagement, Mr Pinno said. “There’s a growing desire for more variety of forestry practices, so we can learn from what others are doing.” In particular, Mexico is a world leader in community-based forestry, he notes. “A lot of decisions happen right in individual communities; each managed a bit differently with differing objectives.” That model of decision-making could inform new ways of practising forestry in Canada, where involving Indigenous communities is becoming more important, he added. “Mexico provides a great example of how we can learn to manage forests from a community place.” As a future forester, Ms Smid plans to apply what she learned on the trip, by staying open to new ways of approaching her work as it evolves. “I was always thinking, would it be applicable? Could I ever implement that kind of management here? We are now managing for many different groups – forestry companies, the public, Indigenous values,” she said. “There’s so much balancing that needs to be done. It’s important to be open to new ideas.” As part of their course work, Ms Smid and her classmates will shared their experiences during a group presentation to the Alberta School of Forest Science & Management and are penning essays reflecting on what they learned from the trip. “It’s important for them to think about how it links to their other courses or future career goals,” Mr Pinno said. “We want our students to critically evaluate what we are doing as foresters and improve it. Experiences like this field tour make it possible.” The trip was supported through the Scotiabank Mexico Corporate Social Responsibility Fund in support of the Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences.

There were 168,050 new homes that commenced construction in 2024, which remains at its lowest levels in over a decade according to HIA Chief Economist Tim Reardon. Source: Timberbiz The ABS today released its building activity data for the December quarter 2024. This data provides estimates of the value of building work and number of dwellings commenced, completed and under construction across Australia and its states and territories. “Home building is currently at the bottom of a cycle and is losing skilled workers to other industry sectors, which impedes future building capacity,” Mr Reardon said. “Australia has consistently built more than 200,000 homes each year and will need to exceed 250,000 annually to meet the Australian Government’s 1.2 million homes target. “Despite the low volume of new homes commencing construction, demand for skilled tradespeople remains high, just not in the new home building sector. The exceptionally low rate of unemployment, and their rare skills, see them in high demand from other industry sectors. “The more workers that are lost from the home building sector in this cycle, the harder and more expensive it will be to increase that capacity, as interest rates fall and activity picks up. “The exceptionally low level of unemployment in Australia is a double-edged sword for the industry as it creates demand for new homes and at the same time, leads to higher labour costs to build a new home. “This week the major parties have announced measures aimed at building more new homes. “In the short term, the only measure that an incoming Australian Government can do to increase the supply of new homes is to offset the cost of taxes fees and charges, by providing financial support for those that build a new home. “Whether this is done through removing the imposts, such as Lenders Mortgage Insurance or removing first home buyers from the established market and incentivising them to build a new home, can increase the supply of new homes. “These are the ‘easy-good’ solutions to the housing shortage. “This doesn’t negate the need for the ‘hard-smart’ policies tackling land supply, infrastructure costs, planning regimes and delays to home building and reform of taxes on new homes. “An investment in infrastructure, or tax reform or reducing delays, wont im-pact on the price or supply of housing within an election cycle, but if they are sustained over a decade, they will begin to ease the cost of a new home. “This should not be an excuse for politicians to renege on their responsibility to address housing affordability by arresting the high cost of delivering new land and rising taxes on housing. “HIA forecasts that only 983,530 new homes will commence construction over that five-year period, unless meaningful changes to remove the barriers to supply are made.”  

New Zealand needs to take a long, hard look at its approach to forestry and ask whether the country is establishing the forests wanted in the long run, according to the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment in his new report, ‘Alt-F Reset: Examining the drivers of forestry in New Zealand’. Source: Timberbiz In the report, the Commissioner, Simon Upton, points out that the future shape of New Zealand’s forests will reflect today’s policies, just as past policies created the forests in New Zealand today. “We may live to regret our current approach as it is driving a wave of land use change with significant environmental, economic and social risks,” he said. The Commissioner clarifies that his concern is not with forests planted for timber production. “In places where they can be safely harvested, production forests are the backbone of an important industry. Because the people who plant them intend to harvest them, they have every incentive to look after them,” Mr Upton said. “But new permanent forests being planted as carbon offsets through the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme (NZ ETS) carry long-term risks for future generations.” These carbon forests, mostly made up of radiata pine, are effectively locking up huge areas of New Zealand’s landscapes forever. Yet the Crown could face implicit carbon liabilities if those forests are damaged by pests, disease, fire or extreme weather events in the future. “As an alternative to pine, many New Zealanders are calling for larger scale native afforestation. That is easier said than done. Successfully establishing native forests is much more expensive and takes a great deal more effort.” Any hopes that the current approach, including the NZ ETS, could incentivise establishing other types of forests – including native forests at scale – are misplaced, the Commissioner says. “The reality is that under current regulatory and economic settings, almost nothing can compete with radiata pine for short-term returns,” he said. Deficiencies in our knowledge are also holding back alternatives, including natives. “We know much less about all aspects of alternative forestry, from seed germination and establishment techniques to the economics of alternative management regimes and the properties of alternative timbers. This lack of information makes anything other than pine a potentially high-risk and expensive undertaking.” The Commissioner emphasised that despite the risks, improving opportunities for alternative species and management regimes is worth exploring. “As well as building resilience into the forestry estate, some alternative species have beneficial traits that make them better suited for specific areas, such as landscapes with erodible soils. These species could also offer new economic opportunities, such as access to high value timber markets. “Different management approaches can also allow for low-intensity timber production while providing long-term environmental values, like biodiversity, carbon and erosion control,” Mr Upton said. Alt-F Reset sets out 15 recommendations to address the risks that New Zealand’s current approach to forestry runs. These include phasing out forestry from the NZ ETS and improving the knowledge base that is needed to underpin greater use of native and alternative exotic species, as well as different management approaches. The Commissioner is specifically advising that any reform of the NZ ETS must involve Māori, as any proposed changes have the potential to unduly affect Māori landowners. “The forestry system we have today was started through government intervention and investment, and if we want something different then similar intervention will be needed,” Mr Upton said. The report can be downloaded here.    

With a career spanning over 30 years in executive roles within the forest and wood products industry in both Australia and abroad, FWPA’s new Head of Research, Development & Extension, Ian Blanden, offers in-depth commercial expertise across the supply chain from R&D and operations to sales, logistics, stakeholder engagement, downstream processing and value adding. Source: Timberbiz His leadership in plantation forestry, and natural forest management, has been shaped by a deep desire to connect technical knowledge with commercial business outcomes. He sees FWPA as a great fit, expressing his excitement to join an experienced team with a true care for the future of Australia’s forest & wood products industry. “Ensuring our natural resources contribute to the global bioeconomy is complex, and it’s this complexity that excites me. In fact, supplying society’s needs through the sustainable commercial management of our forests is what originally drew me to work in this industry,” he said. “I am keen to use the knowledge I have gained leading large commercial forestry businesses to help FWPA achieve its goal of significantly increasing the importance of the sector in Australia, and to give back to the industry which has served me so well over the last 35 years.” Mr Bladen is driven by his passion for continuous improvement and fostering a systematic approach to work and he aims to bring this perspective to his role at FWPA. “In the short term I hope to build upon FWPA’s work to date with additional tools to embed a culture of continuous improvement within the function, and to demonstrate how RD&E supports FWPA in achieving its strategic goals and delivering value to its members,” he said. “What drives me on a daily basis is witnessing individuals, teams and organisations motivated by ongoing learning and growth. “A culture of innovation and continuous improvement can only truly exist in an organisation in which staff feel safe to voice their opinions, and where their contribution towards its success is applauded. The whole process can be both fun and highly rewarding. “Everyone likes to be part of a winning team, especially when the improvements are acknowledged by the wider industry.” Mr Blanden has a clear vision for sharing the outcomes of FWPA-supported research to enhance member knowledge, understanding and adoption. “I am a firm believer that transparency is a powerful tool. As a species we humans have a relatively short-term collective memory. We need a way of communicating research outcomes and demonstrating that RD&E outcomes have in fact translated into real-world applications,” he said. “Seeing is believing and showing tangible examples of RD&E in action is a great motivator for everyone involved.” Mr Blanden and wife Gianella, who is also a professional forester, have travelled extensively and lived in mainland China for 11 years while Ian worked for the Nordic Renewable Materials Company, Stora Enso. Outside his professional life, he has two sons, enjoys bushwalking and photography, and is writing a book on the history of the fourth-tier city in which they lived in Guangxi, China. Mr Blanden’s first weeks in the role allow him to coincide with outgoing Head of RD&E, Chris Lafferty, and conduct a thorough handover to benefit from Chris’s extensive knowledge and experience in the organisation. Mr Lafferty will formally retire from this role at the end of June 2025 but will remain as FWPA’s company secretary.

The Ultimate Renewable campaign has entered a new era. Starting with a three-month pilot in August 2024, The FWPA has transitioned to an always-on campaign aimed at improving consumer perceptions and strengthening long-term demand for wood and wood products all year round. Source: Timberbiz By focusing on digital, print and audio channels, this new strategy stretches the campaign’s reach and impact further, keeping messages in front of key audiences consistently and cost-effectively. The campaign is fronted once again by trusted ambassador Adam Dovile and features the powerful messaging: Wood. Grow, Harvest, Repeat. Since launching in August 2024, the campaign has run across a variety of platforms, targeting both metropolitan and regional audiences. Highlights include: SEN and AFL Nation radio (938,000 combined weekly listeners) A full-page feature in the AFL Grand Final Record, with over 1.3 million estimated readership Ongoing SEN digital advertising to reinforce messaging across sports media channels. Digital channels remain central to the campaign’s success. Facebook and Instagram ads have been running since November, tailored primarily to younger metro-based women—a cohort identified through FWPA research as especially receptive to sustainability messaging. These are complemented by Google Display ads reaching broader segments with aligned interests and values. In February this year, FWPA ramped up activity through additional high-impact placements including: YouTube pre-roll ads and expanded Google Display presence A strategic content partnership with Channel 9, including ad placements during Married at First Sight (with an estimated 2.4 million viewers) on 9NOW (catch-up TV) Digital and print placements in SMH, The Age, and AFR Life & Lifestyle Street furniture advertising rolled out across NSW, ACT and VIC, with WA, QLD, SA and TAS scheduled for April–May Sponsorship of Bendigo Spirit and Mavericks women’s sports teams, with ac-companying visibility across SEN digital, social, and the AFL Record starting in April – May. The campaign also took advantage of a high-traffic moment during Parliament sittings in March, running digital ads inside the ACT airport’s Qantas Lounge. These placements will return in June, with an average dwell time of 44 minutes providing extended exposure. From April through June, FWPA is building further momentum by: Securing a second major content partnership with Channel 7 Exploring new audio placements including radio, podcasts and Spotify ads. This next phase aims to deepen engagement, grow audience familiarity, and reinforce the campaign’s core sustainability message. The campaign is grounded in extensive consumer research, social license insights, and previous years’ campaign evaluations. Every element is designed to improve perceptions of wood as a renewable, environmentally responsible material of choice and ultimately drive consumer demand. For FWPA members, this strategy means better year-round visibility, more cost-effective media buying, and clearer returns on investment. Most importantly, it ensures wood and wood products stay front of mind in a competitive materials market. Watch more at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EDqnRyxy0j0  

The Murray Region Forestry Hub (MRFH), in partnership with the North East Catchment Management Authority, the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority, and Wangaratta Rural City Council will hold a landholder forum aimed at providing practical and research-backed insights into the benefits of integrating forestry into farming systems. Source: Timberbiz This free event will take place on 27 June 2025 in Wangaratta, featuring a range of topics presented by leading specialists. “The forum is aimed to ensure landholders get access to well researched information to make informed decisions about their own properties. “More trees on land can have benefits for the landholder and broader community through flow on economic stimulus. We are very excited to provide the opportunity for the questions to be answered and to ensure landholders are connecting with the right people to aid the decision-making process,” said Ms Carlie Porteous (MRFH). The forum, Boost Your Farm’s Future: Unlock the Power of Trees for Productivity and Biodiversity, will provide farmers and landowners with information regarding the opportunities for trees on privately owned land, based on federally funded research outcomes from Hubs, Forest & Wood Products Australia (FWPA), Australian Forest & Wood Innovations (AFWI), and other key industry bodies. Forum Agenda: Setting the scene, why trees belong on land. Growing Together: Navigating the investment and challenges of farm forestry in partnership with landowners. Forestry / Biodiversity Plantings: Exploring the future of forestry and biodiversity plantings from an economic, social, and environmental perspective. Case Study 1: Drawing perspective from a family farm experience Case Study 2: Presenting a case study on the role of forestry and biodiversity plantings in farming systems and emissions balance. Economic Aspects: Discussing the economics of establishing a forestry development. Socio and regional contribution and market opportunity. Turning Trees into Income: A simple guide to earning carbon credits on your land. Risk Management: Managing risk in carbon projects: identifying key risks and pitfalls in plantation forestry carbon project structures. Responsible forestry, biodiversity and the role of certification. This forum presents an opportunity for landowners to explore practical strategies for integrating trees into their farming practices, boosting both productivity and environmental sustainability. The event will be held at the Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre on 27 June 2025 from 9:30 am – 3:30 pm. A networking session will follow with drinks & canapes from 3.30pm to 5pm To book go to: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1377917

The Tasmanian Forest Products Association (TFPA) has welcomed further commitments to Australia’s diverse and sustainable forest industry by the Liberal National Coalition ahead of the 2025 federal election. Source: Timberbiz Following on from their commitments to protect existing forestry quotas, to defund the environmental lawfare organisation the Environmental Defenders Office, and to back the future of the Tasmanian Freight Equalisation Scheme (TFES) to the tune of $65 million, Shadow Forestry Minister and Tasmanian Senator Jonno Duniam committed last week to maintaining the existing Regional Forestry Agreements. Speaking with TFPA Chief Executive Officer, Nick Steel, Senator Duniam outlined the Liberals “ironclad commitment” to stick the RFAs if elected in the May election. “Supporting RFAs means supporting our environment, the jobs and communities that rely on this industry,” Senator Duniam said. The commitment was welcomed by Mr Steel, who said, the existing RFA model holds the state’s forestry businesses to the highest level of scrutiny and ensures the industry is a leader the world on environmental and sustainability standards. “It’s a tough system, but our industry knows it’s the best way to manage our forests, as well as to ensure certainty for our businesses. That’s why we’ve welcomed Senator Duniam’s announcement,” Mr Steel said. “We’re now calling on Labor to show the same commitment to the thousands of Tasmanians across our state who are employed by our forestry businesses and back our existing Tasmanian RFA. “It’s the best way to protect their jobs and strengthen the scores of local communities across the state who rely on Tasmanian forestry to thrive.”