Australian timber industry news

The Australian Forest Products Association has welcomed Australian Forest and Wood Innovation’s newly appointed Executive Director, Dr Joseph Lawrence to the role ahead of what the AFPA sees as an exciting phase for forestry sector research and development. Source: Timberbiz “AFPA and the broader forestry sector are excited to have Dr Lawrence start as AFWI’s Executive Director this week,” AFPA Chief Executive Officer Diana Hallam said. “Dr Lawrence brings extensive experience in research, innovation and industry development through an array of roles at universities, government agencies and across a number of industries, including manufacturing, agrifood, health, digital, energy and construction,” Ms Hallam said. “Dr Lawrence’s appointment marks an important new phase for AFWI as it embarks on a program of transformative research that will help Australia’s forestry sector find new avenues of innovation and enterprise, at the same time the world is looking for ways to decarbonise. “There are enormous opportunities for our industries to hone the scope of use for sustainable timber and wood fibre – and AFWI has a central and exciting role in this space.” “AFPA had a key role delivering AFWI and we’re looking forward to working with Dr Lawrence as he takes the reins to facilitate research and development that matters for the Australian forestry industry. Part of the formula for success is to ensure local industry participation, so forestry can get the most from AFWI as a research and development institution for our future-focused sector,” Ms Hallam said.

Australian Forest and Wood Innovations has appointed Dr Joseph Lawrence as its new Executive Director. Dr Lawrence’s 20-year career has specialised in research collaboration, innovation, and industry development. Source: Timberbiz Dr Lawrence has led initiatives across major industries including manufacturing, agrifood, energy, engineering, digital, and health. His previous roles include Pro Vice-Chancellor (Strategic Partnerships) for Research and Innovation at Deakin University; Director of New Zealand’s Centre of Excellence for Electric Power; and Executive Director, Industry Recovery and Engagement and Executive Director, Strategic Skills Projects at the Victorian Government’s Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions. Dr Lawrence holds a PhD in Engineering Management from the University of Canterbury, where his research focused on business models for collaborative research centres. “Joining AFWI at this pivotal moment for the organisation and the forestry and wood products sector is an incredible opportunity,” Dr Lawrence said. “My focus will be on strengthening partnerships between researchers, industry, and government to position AFWI as a leader in transformative, industry-led research. “By advancing innovation and sustainability, we aim to deliver tangible benefits that directly support and grow the sector,” he said. “I’m eager to collaborate with our partners to drive impactful outcomes that address the industry’s evolving challenges.” Dr Lawrence’s appointment marks a new chapter for AFWI as it continues to drive transformative research and foster collaboration within the forestry and wood products sector. Dr Lawrence will begin by meeting with industry representatives to discuss the state of the sector, opportunities and challenges the industry is facing, and how AFWI’s research can benefit the industry. AFWI’s Board Chair, Bob Gordon, expressed his enthusiasm for the appointment, highlighting the rigorous selection process undertaken by a panel that included representation from AFWI, AFPA, and the University of Tasmania. “After a thorough recruitment process, we’re thrilled to welcome Dr Joseph Lawrence as AFWI’s Executive Director,” Mr Gordon said. “His impressive track record in fostering collaboration and delivering innovation makes him uniquely qualified to lead AFWI in achieving its ambitious goals. “With the support of our Board of Directors and a team of expert staff, we are confident Joseph will help shape the future of the forestry and wood products sector.” Dr Angela Castles, Dean of the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Tasmania, also welcomed the appointment. “We are very pleased to have secured someone of Joseph’s calibre for the Executive Director role,” Dr Castles said. “He brings a combination of executive experience across universities, government, and industry, as well as leadership in research and development, innovation, and sectoral partnerships. “His strong engagement skills and clear vision for AFWI give us confidence he will hit the ground running and engage with our important industry partners early in his tenure.” The Federal Government is investing $300 million in the future of the forestry industry, which includes over $100 million for AFWI. “I am very pleased to announce Dr Lawrence’s appointment as the Executive Director of AFWI. Dr Lawrence’s experience and excellence in his field means AFWI is in extremely capable hands,” Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins, said. “AFWI has an important role to play in supporting research and innovation for the Australian forestry sector. Dr Lawrence will be a vital point of contact for industry and provide direction and security for both AFWI and the timber sector,” she said.

The Bendigo and Adelaide Bank has been slammed over its decision to withdraw its longstanding support for Tasmanian forestry contractor T P Bennett & Sons and drop them as a customer on “ESG (environmental, social, and governance) grounds”. Source: Timberbiz The Australian Forest Contractors Association has chosen to end its business relationship with the bank because of the decision. “The community banking credentials are why AFCA was pleased to use Bendigo Bank as our financial services provider,” AFCA general manager Tim Lester said. “On the basis of this ESG policy the AFCA Board has chosen to end our business relationship,” Mr Lester said. TP Bennett and sons business manager Tammy Price told The Mercury that in 2022 she started trying to get refinancing from Bendigo Bank for some of the company’s plantation equipment. After a back and forth between the local branch and higher ups, the loan was denied. “Because our income comes from native forestry they said no, we can’t help you,” Mrs Price – a former Bendigo Bank board member – told The Mercury. She invited Bendigo Bank to come to Tasmania and witness the sustainable industry and learn about the rules and regulations loggers have to abide by. “Because our income comes from native forestry they said no, we can’t help you,” Mrs Price said. She invited Bendigo Bank to come to Tasmania and witness the sustainable industry and learn about the rules and regulations loggers have to abide by. A Bendigo Bank spokesman told The Mercury Bendigo and Adelaide Bank does not comment on specific customer matters but assesses each application according to its policies, risk appetite and credit decision process. “From time to time, the Bank has determined not to proceed with lending applications on the grounds that they fall outside our business writing strategy and balance sheet risk appetite. “We know not all our stakeholders will be supportive of all our decisions,” he said, adding that decisions are made on balance and in the best interest of the bank and its broader stakeholder group of “customers, investors, or people and the community”. Tasmania’s Minister for Business, Industry and Resources, Eric Abetz, said it was important that corporate Australia stick to the facts on native forestry. “Tasmania’s forestry sector, with its mixed approach of conservation and active forest management, provides an exceedingly high degree of environmental protection and sustainability,” said Mr Abetz. “We are blessed in Tasmania to have a sustainable, word-class native forestry sector that puts food on the table for thousands of families. “The news that Bendigo and Adelaide Bank is looking to withdraw their support for Tasmania’s sustainable, world-class native forestry industry is disappointing and misguided.” The Tasmanian Forest Products Association said the decision had caused many small forestry businesses to lose access to the quick finance they needed to keep their business afloat. “By its very nature, forestry is an industry that requires large amounts of long-term finance. It takes years to successfully grow, harvest and regrow a forestry site,” TFPA Chief Executive Nick Steel said. “By refusing to finance part of our industry, the bank is handing a slap-in-the-face to those employed and the families that rely on forestry in Tasmania. “This is simply another form of greenwashing by one of Australia’s biggest financial institutions which ironically claims that helping communities thrive is at the heart of what they do.” In January last year leading forestry expert Rob de Fegely resigned from Bendigo Bank over its policy not to support the harvesting of native forest. Mr de Fegely resigned from the board of his local Community Bank due to its parent Bendigo Bank’s policy of not supporting native forest harvesting. Mr de Fegely, a former director of Margules Groome Consulting, chair of Sustainable Timber Tasmania and a non-executive director of Forestry Corporation of NSW, emphasised at the time that these were his personal views and not those of any of the organisations he works for. “Despite numerous exchanges with the chief executive, Marnie Baker, and the head of corporate affairs and ESG, they have not provided any justification for their policy, which is contrary to the United Nations International Panel on Climate Change recommendations for managed forests,” he said at the time. Mr de Fegeley said he had told the chief executive that finger pointing or cancel culture was an inappropriate way to resolve the complex challenges of sustainably managing Australia’s natural forests. Mr Abetz said he had written to Bendigo and Adelaide Bank CEO Richard Fennell, to express his genuine disappointment and frustration at this misguided decision. “Tasmania has a legal, renewable, and sustainable native hardwood industry from which we source timber and fibre, including high-value special species and appearance grade timber,” Mr Abetz said. “Timbers for these uses cannot be sourced from plantation – if we do not produce them here locally, they need to be imported at great cost. “This would see timber being imported from Malaysia, Indonesia, the Solomon Islands and South America – countries that frankly do not compare with Tasmania’s approach. “What could be more sustainable than houses being built and furnished in Tasmania from sustainably grown Tasmanian timber harvested by local businesses? It simply doesn’t pass the pub test that a local bank wouldn’t be prepared to finance this type of activity,” he said. “I’m proud to stand side by side with our forestry sector and will continue to support these businesses under our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future. “Our Liberal Government will not be swayed by the views of mainland extremist groups which have a radical ideological opposition to native forestry.” Mr Steel said the decision to end the availability of finance to Tasmanian native forestry businesses was misguided and seemed to be caused by pressure from radical environmental activists. “This knee-jerk reaction from the bank and its shareholders is based on misinformation and fear drummed up by the usual extreme environmental activists,” Mr Steel said. “The same extreme activists who routinely interrupt our legal and responsible businesses. “As a result, […]

Stora Enso’s impressive new head office, called Katajanokan Laituri, reflects sustainable forestry practices. It is a prime example of what a tree can do and what we can achieve with sustainable forest management: a marvel of wooden architecture where modern, urban work life meets nature, well-being, and the renewability of the forest. Source: Timberbiz Built with responsibly sourced timber, the wooden structure will store carbon dioxide throughout its lifetime. The building is owned by the Finnish pension insurance company Varma, and in addition to Stora Enso’s head office, the premises host a hotel, a restaurant, and a café. Thanks to the beautiful work of Anttinen Oiva Architects and everyone involved, forest can be sensed from the ground up to the roof. The wooden elements are beautifully visible throughout the interior, honouring their nature-based origin. The rooftop of the building has been decorated with vegetation and deadwood that serve urban biodiversity. The Katajanokan Laituri structure is made of PEFC-certified Finnish and Swedish spruce from Stora Enso’s own forests and those of other forest owners. Trees are usually harvested at the age of 60–100 years. In harvesting, Stora Enso follows the principles of sustainable forestry and promotes certifications which set certain environmental, social, and economic requirements such as preserving deadwood, living trees, buffer zones around waters, and other forest structures in harvesting. These requirements are complemented by its biodiversity management actions, it monitors performance with biodiversity impact indicators in harvesting. After trees have been harvested in final fellings, new seedlings are planted to ensure forest regeneration. The harvested trees are used as renewable materials by utilising each part of the tree in the most optimal, valuable, and resource-efficient way. For instance, timber is sawn and manufactured from the trunk of the tree. Katajanokan Laituri is built with around 7,600 cubic metres of massive timber, constructed with both LVL beams and columns (laminated veneer lumber) and CLT walls, floors and roofs (cross laminated timber). Growing trees also bind carbon efficiently: the 6,000 tonnes of CO2 bound by the harvested trees are now stored in the walls and floors of Katajanokan Laituri, built to last at least a hundred years, while the new forest continues to grow. For comparison, the heating, cooling and other operations of the building will release the same amount of CO2 in 50 years. Using wood not only stores carbon but also substitutes non-renewable materials like concrete and steel. The longer wood remains in use, the longer CO2 remains bound and the longer the material continues to bring a bit of nature into an urban environment.    

Smurfit Westrock’s innovative new paper pallet wrap is helping companies to make their supply chains significantly more sustainable. Source: Timberbiz Smurfit Westrock has produced a 100% paper-based alternative to the polyethylene stretch wrap which is commonly used to stabilise pallet loads in transportation. The global stretch wrap market was valued at US$4.27 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow significantly. The innovative new solution is made from Nertop Stretch Kraft paper which is fully recyclable. Its capabilities also include high energy absorption and strong performance in humid conditions. The pallet wrap is the latest addition to Smurfit Westrock’s Better Planet Packaging Portfolio which seeks to reduce the environmental impact of packaging. Encirc, a leading glass supplier which manufactures over three billion containers annually, was the first company in the UK to use the new paper wrap. The company named Smurfit Westrock as Sustainability Champion at its partnership day in September in recognition of the big step forward that using the paper wrap represents. “Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do at Encirc, and it is heartening that 85% of our beverage customers say that our sustainability credentials made them choose Encirc,” Peter Ball, Head of Planning at Encirc, said. “We recognise how important supply chain solutions are to all our business partners. To this end, Encirc has been working with Smurfit Westrock to replace single-use plastic with a paper alternative, which is a first for the UK glass making and bottle-filling industry.” Jemma Jones, National Account Manager at Smurfit Westrock said that Smurfit Westrock, Encirc is committed to the circular economy and immediately recognised the significant CO2-reducing potential of the paper wrap. “If they switched entirely to the paper wrap, it would lead to an extremely significant reduction of emissions. Traditional stretch wrap is the go-to for many companies, but our paper-based alternative does as good a job and vitally, is much easier to recycle at the end of use,” she said. The Better Planet Packaging paper pallet wrap is manufactured in Smurfit Westrock’s Nervión paper mill in Spain.

With President-elect Trump set to take over the Oval Office on 20 January, the Canadian lumber industry looks to be taking action. As Trump has threatened 25% import tariffs on all goods from Canada and Mexico (as well as 60% tariffs on China imports), Canadian lumber companies are going on the offensive by proposing 25% increases in lumber effective if and when the tariffs are implemented. Source: Russ Taylor Global Whether this is simply aggressive posturing and bullying by Trump to get action from Canada and Mexico and it looks like it has definitely got the attention of Canadian politicians or it is something that he will go through with to prove his point, exporters and buyers need to protect their businesses with short-term strategies. A number of Canadian lumber companies are now advising customers that they will add 25% to lumber exports to the US when the tariff is announced. With Canadian mills already paying an average of 14.4% import duties on US shipments, they have no alternative but to increase prices by the 25% to cover the potential tariff. A Linkedin post by Nic Wilson, CEO of the Denver Mass Timber Group Summit (https://www.masstimber.group/) provided his view of recent market uncertainties. He reported on 9 January 9: “West Fraser… sent a blanket email statement out last night. That said if Trump signs a +25% tariff (to the existing import duty already in place), then any lumber that isn’t already rolling on a rail into your yard will be subject to the added expense.” He indicates that “multiple big Canadian mills sent out the same public announcement.” As a wholesale lumber purchaser/trader, Mr Wilson’s view is that “the market will panic buy to cover their February and March inventories. It’s the customer’s insurance policy. Legitimately people are gambling right now, rolling the dice because some of them have been caught with their pants down, leaving their lumber in the sawmill’s yard too long. Now people are forced to panic ship, based on a “what if” scenario. The crazy part is, we do not actually know if Trump will or will not add the tariff. It is all a wild ass speculation.” He believes that this “will trigger a panic buy the next few weeks causing run-away prices. This is textbook… ‘Selling the rumour and buying the facts.’” This initial market reactions come after Trump’s earlier comments this week that: “We don’t need their (Canadian) lumber. We have massive fields of lumber. We don’t need their lumber,” said Trump. “We have to unrestrict them, because stupid people put, you know, restrictions on – but I can do that with an executive order. We don’t need anything they have (…referring also to cars and dairy, but not oil).” Of course, this is another Trump mistruth in more ways than one. I suppose the thinks that lumber grows in fields, and you just have to go get it. Of course, he is referring to forests that are restricted for various reasons – conservation, parks and sustainably managed forests, etc. He does not seem to understand that you need capital (harvesting machines, logging trucks) and skilled labour to ramp up any log harvests. So, unrealistic in the short term. And then you need sawmilling capacity which could be ramped somewhat, but US mills are already running at around 85% of capacity (and they do not often get to 90%) and you also need labour. Too bad he will be returning thousands of undocumented immigrants to their home countries, as it sounds like they could be needed and not just build houses. Here are some of the facts about Canada-US lumber products trade estimated for 2024 (after seeing a number of erroneous reports): Canada softwood (SW) lumber exports to US = 12 billion board feet (bf) = 24% of US consumption Non-Canada SW lumber exports to US = 3.5 billion bf = 7% of US consumption Canada SW lumber production = 20.5 billion bf US SW lumber production = 36 billion bf US SW lumber consumption = 50 billion bf Canada SW lumber exports to US as a % of total Canada production = 60% Canada SW lumber exports to non-US markets = 1.4 billion bf. Bottom Line: the US needs Canadian lumber; Canada really needs the US lumber market! And here are some of the facts about Canada-US OSB trade estimated for 2024: Canada OSB exports to US = 6.25 billion square feet (sf) = 30% of US consumption Non-Canada OSB exports to US = 0.4 billion sf = 2% of US consump-tion. Canada OSB production = 8 billion sf US OSB production = 15 billion sf US OSB consumption = 21.5 billion sf Canada OSB exports to US as a % of total Canada production = 75% Canada OSB exports to non-US markets = 0.4 billion sf. Bottom Line: the US needs Canadian OSB; Canada really needs the US OSB market. Canadian exports of MDF and particleboard go mainly to the US (98% of total exports) while plywood exports to the US are small at 300 million sf and rep-resent about 3% of US consumption. So, waiting to see what Trump will do with 25% tariffs has already spooked the markets. Let us see what Trump’s strategy really is, as the tariffs will backfire very quickly if implemented, causing higher prices and inflation and the potential of shortages and job losses. Interesting times.

Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve Rainforest Discovery Centre in Maleny, Queensland is inviting children to uncover stories from the forest through an interactive exhibition. Source: Timberbiz There’s something for all ages in this school holiday activity which is daily from 9.30am to 3.30pm throughout the year. Children are encouraged to write a letter to their favourite tree, or visit the giant fig tree and pen a heartfelt letter to their leafy friend, or listen to a Jinibara story: hear the captivating tale of the carpet python and the storm, a story passed down through generations. Junior ranger and nature journaling kits are available to borrow free and they can be used on the forest track and Rainforest Discovery Centre. Sunshine Coast Division 5 Councillor Winston Johnston said the ‘Stories from the Forest’ exhibition was a fantastic way for families to connect with nature and learn about the rich history of our rainforest. “This precious remnant of sub-tropical rainforest is not here by accident, it is the result of concerted effort by many people across generations,” Cr Johnston said. “The story begins with the Jinibara, the first custodians and their deep and on-going connection to the region. “The story continues with the Thynne sisters who donated the land in 1941 to the Landsborough Shire Council and the Rotary Club of Maleny, and continues all the way through to today’s volunteers. “This new exhibition recognises and celebrates the crucial role these former and current custodians have played in the preservation of the forest.” Environment and Liveability Portfolio Councillor Tim Burns invited the community to learn more about the people behind Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve. “We’re so lucky to have such a beautiful rainforest right here on the Sunshine Coast and it’s thanks to the Jinibara custodianship over many generations, the foresight of the Thynne sisters and commitment of many since then,” Cr Burns said. “This display is a wonderful opportunity for our community to learn their stories and make some of your own.”

For Lily Marshall, the path to becoming a forester was anything but straightforward. Originally from New Zealand, she grew up surrounded by trees, thanks to her family’s horticulture business, but she initially studied biomedical science, fascinated by genetics and pharmacology. Source: Timberbiz After some globe-trotting, a stint as a sky-diving instructor in Sweden, and a return home just in time for the COVID-19 lockdown, Ms Marshall was rethinking her career. “I came across an ad on Facebook encouraging more women to join forestry,” she says. “I did some research, talked to people, and soon enough, I knew this was where I wanted to be.” After completing a two-year Diploma in Forest Management, she joined OneFortyOne in 2022 as a Value Optimisation Forester, based out of Mount Gambier. OneFortyOne manages the largest softwood plantation in the Green Triangle, which covers over 80,000 hectares of south east South Australia and south west Victoria. Ms Marshall’s role is to maximise the value from every tree harvested so nothing’s wasted. “Once a tree is cut down, we determine its value based on its end use whether it’s structural timber, industrial products or pulp. The goal is to get the most out of each part,” she says. Her days are a blend of office work, data analysis, and forest field visits. For Ms Marshall, this balance is one of the best parts of her job. “I love the problem-solving side of it. Each day is dynamic, and there’s always something new to learn,” she says. “I get to analyse data, work with harvesting teams, and even lend a hand during prescribed burns. It’s a perfect mix.” As the world seeks greener solutions to fight climate change, forestry stands out as an industry that’s truly sustainable, and Ms Marshall is passionate about its role in tackling the climate crisis. “We’re planting trees that sequester carbon, and every harvested tree is replaced. Plus, timber can be a substitute for materials like steel and concrete, which have much higher emissions,” she says, adding that there are now entire skyscrapers made of engineered wood around the world. Forests, she says, aren’t just rows of trees; they’re complex ecosystems supporting a wide range of plants and animals. “Forests support biodiversity, and as foresters, we work hard to protect native areas within our estates,” she says. South Australian plantation estates protect over 40,000 hectares of high-value habitats. This is something Lily is especially passionate about, describing foresters as “tree huggers” who genuinely care about sustainability and conservation. Forestry isn’t just good for the environment it’s also massive for the state’s economy. The sector contributes $3 billion annually, employs 18,000 South Australians and is a key driver for construction, manufacturing, tourism, and regional communities. South Australia produces 35% of Australia’s housing timber, 25% of Australia’s locally produced particleboard (think flat-packed furniture), as well as 60% of Australia’s agricultural timbers – that’s poles, posts and fencing for farms, and also the nation’s biggest producer of domestic-use wood products.  

A “pioneering” hybrid timber tower has been proposed for Perth CBD. Developer Erben has submitted an application to the City of Perth for determination by the Development Assessment Panel for a project at 108 Stirling Street. Source: The Urban Developer Erben previously developed a 19-storey project at 78 Stirling Street. The latest proposal would use hybrid cross-laminated timber construction and, according to the development application from Urbis, was “designed to enhance liveability and sustainability by integrating nature and community-focused urban living”. Erben said the project would comprise 351 apartments and 64 short-stay apartments, as well as retail and dining tenancies. Of the residential component, there will be 216 studio apartments, 146 one-bed units including the short-stay accommodation, and 54 two-bed units. There are provisions for four levels of above-ground carparking with space for 180 cars and 123 bikes. Designed by Rothelowman, the tower would promote “walkable green spaces and public amenities, enhancing social cohesion, community well-being and environmental benefits”, the application said. Erben has already undertaken pre-lodgement meetings, from which the building footprint was reduced and orientation modified. The subject site is 2266 sq m and currently home to a low-rise building that would be demolished under the plan. It is within the inner-city Stirling Precinct that features a mix of commercial, office, mixed-use and residential developments. Perth Train Station is about 400m away and the McIver Train Station about 350m from the site. The proposed tower would be in a ‘free transit zone’, which provides an “exceptional level of urban mobility to connect visitors and residents” to wider Perth and beyond, Erben said. The 108 Stirling Street development is the latest proposal in the West to employ hybrid timber construction as building and material costs continue to rise. Last year Bluerock Projects acquired land from DevelopmentWA to build a 51-apartment build-to-rent project labelled as “Western Australia’s largest timber frame apartment complex”, while Grange Development’s 51-storey hybrid timber tower was greenlit in 2023—it is purportedly the tallest tower using the construction method in the world. And the Murdoch University Perth campus is home to Boola Katitjin, the largest Mass Engineered Timber (MET) building in the state.  

The first New Zealand Timber Industry Federation (NZTIF) business conditions survey covering the quarter to 30 September 2024 has been completed. The results included participants’ experiences and thoughts regarding past and future timber sales, percentage movements in timber selling prices, production costs and profitability. Source: Timberbiz In general, the participating members view improving business conditions ahead with South Island members in particular feeling bullish about prospects in the next 12 months. More specifically, in the next 12 months, survey participants: Expect to increase timber sales volumes by 1-10%. The increase would be felt mainly in domestic market sales with a lower level of expectation in exports. Believe timber production costs to remain on the rise or at least at current levels. Have no general confidence that timber selling prices will in-crease. The NZTIF annual survey of timber industry wages and conditions of employment in the year to 30 April 2024 covers a wide range of terms and conditions of employment in the industry.  The full survey results were provided to members who participated in the survey. Survey highlights are: Hourly wage rates increased by an average 3.62% across all skill categories and experience levels, down from 5.36% last year. Weekly working hours as at 30 April 2024 were; 4 days at 8 to 9.5hrs 12.5% of replies 4 days at 10 or more hrs 20.8% of replies 5 days at 8 to 9.5hrs 54.2% of replies 5 days at 10 or more hrs 12.5% of replies In some cases, there were variations in hours worked per week within sites depending on work positions and tasks and there were variations week to week for depending on external factors. In 2024 68% of those surveyed reported a staff turnover of 0-20%, and 18% experienced a 21-40% turnover. In 2023 the equivalent numbers were 59% and 36%. In 2024 58% of those surveyed reported labour shortages down from 65% in 2023 and 72% in 2022. Shortages were being felt across all positions including general mill workers, table hands, machinists and truck drivers. The full survey results were sent to participants.

For builders and construction companies, standing out in a competitive market means more than delivering quality homes it’s about effectively communicating the value behind the materials you choose. Timber framing is the backbone of many Australian homes, offering sustainability, efficiency, and cost-saving advantages. However, clients increasingly want to understand the “why” behind material choices. Source: Timberbiz This is where WoodSolutions steps in. Through its latest timber framing campaign, WoodSolutions provides builders and construction businesses with free promotional resources to bridge the gap between industry knowledge and client understanding. Homeowners today are more involved than ever. Many want assurance that their new home aligns with their values of sustainability, quality, and long-term affordability. WoodSolutions helps builders address their client concerns by offering expert-backed resources that highlight timber framing’s environmental credentials, including its renewable nature, carbon-storing properties, and potential to reduce energy costs in the future. By equipping builders with accessible tools to communicate these benefits, WoodSolutions enables construction businesses to confidently showcase their commitment to sustainable practices—giving clients another reason to trust their knowledge and skills. Every builder understands the value of trust in client relationships. WoodSolutions’ co-branded content and easy-to-share tools allow companies to highlight their professionalism and informed material choices. These materials not only reinforce a builder’s reputation but also position timber framing as a forward-thinking solution in modern construction. Whether used in initial consultations or follow-up communications, these resources ensure your team is prepared to answer questions and proactively address client concerns about strength, durability, and sustainability. Explaining the technical and environmental benefits of timber framing can be challenging. That’s why WoodSolutions offers visual tools designed to make timber’s advantages clear and compelling. From on-site walk through materials to social media-ready content, these tools help you communicate with clients in ways they can easily understand and appreciate. Imagine your site supervisor confidently demonstrating timber’s natural insulating properties or its carbon-positive impact during a frame-stage walkthrough. Or think of how much time you can save by sharing ready to post social media content highlighting timber’s sustainability which can resonate with prospective clients who are researching their next builder. These moments add value to the client experience and reinforce your business’s commitment to quality and innovation. WoodSolutions’ timber framing campaign is more than a marketing initiative it’s a partnership designed to empower builders and construction companies to thrive. By utilising these free resources, you can better connect with your clients, promote your expertise, and differentiate your business in an ever-evolving market. Explore the available resources and learn how timber framing can elevate your business.

A war of words and glossy brochures has flared up in the scientific world over whether Western Australia’s major prescribed-burning program across the forests of its south-west is doing more harm than good. Source: WA Today The South-West Forests Defence Foundation launched its publication Prescribed Burning Fact Sheets – August 2024 outlining scientific re-search arguing current prescribed burning practices in the south-west forest regions does not give effective protection from wildfires, is hazardous to people’s health and is causing irreversible loss of biodiversity. The foundation, which includes prominent scientists and environmentalists, favours a rapid detection and suppression response to bushfires rather than the current approach, which is to burn 200,000 hectares annually across the south-west forest regions, and five million hectares statewide, to reduce fuel loads. In response, the Bushfire Front advocacy group has released its own pamphlet critiquing the foundation’s “flawed” proposal, saying it’s not based on sound science and would have disastrous outcomes in the event of a major bushfire. It states there is no evidence prescribed burns are destroying native eco-systems; that smoke from controlled burns poses less of a risk to public health than a major fire; and that the response-only method was trialled and failed in WA in the early 1900s. “The Americans have the biggest and best fire detection and suppression systems, including early detection, a fleet of very large aircraft and thou-sands of well-equipped firefighters, but they are unable to stop multiple bushfires burning in heavy fuels under severe weather conditions,” the critique said. “Response-only is the fire control system used in NSW and Victoria but has failed spectacularly.” In California, where wildfires had taken seven lives and destroyed more than 10,000 structures at the time this article was being prepared for publication, authorities are leveraging AI-powered tools to spot fires quicker. The Bushfire Front’s John Clark characterised the Forests Defence Foundation’s position as advocating for “expensive and untested” technology. He said by contrast, they saw fuel reduction burning as an essential com-ponent of bushfire management which, if done properly and at the right scale, minimised the risk of calamitous fires on bad days. Copies of the pamphlet have been sent to government ministers and agencies. A state government spokesman said prescribed burning remained the primary means of protecting the community and environment from the devastating impacts of large bushfires and was consistent with more than 60 years of peer-reviewed research and operational evidence collected by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions. “The Standing Committee on Environment and Public Affairs in 2023 ta-bled its report and advised that commissioning an independent review of DBCA’s prescribed burning practices was not necessary,” he said. “The state government supports the standing committee’s findings. “There have been several reviews on bushfires and bushfire management since 2001 in WA and throughout Australia. “Across these reviews, there have been consistent themes in relation to the importance of individuals, local governments, and organisations man-aging fuel loads to reduce bushfire risk, primarily through prescribed burning.” WA Forest Alliance convenor Carole Peters said bland statements from the DBCA and the Bushfire Front, such as “informed by the best available science” were meaningless unless backed by up-to-date, published, peer-reviewed research. Peters said contrary to the DBCA’s current view, the latest research showed that prescribed burning actually stimulated the growth of highly flammable understory, which increased, rather than decreased, the risk of wildfire. “A big bureaucracy, with deeply entrenched blanket prescriptions, using a strategy of simply increasing the marketing arm with repeated responses about “keeping us safe” and being “good for biodiversity” is wearing thin,” she said. “It’s straight out of the Donald Trump-style political playbook to repeat the same old messages, inspired by retired foresters who support logging, thinning and burning, with claims that their on-the-ground experience amounts to hundreds of years of expertise. “Repeated claims that “fuel reduction burning will keep us safe from cata-strophic wildfires”, “cool burns” and “mosaic burns” are good for biodiversity, Indigenous people burnt for thousands of years, presented as standalone statements. None of this stands up to scrutiny.” A rally will be held in Nornalup on January 18 over a burn scheduled for the famous tingle forests.

There are major concerns in relation to preparedness across South East Australia and opportunities to improve fuel management according to John O’Donnell. Source: Timberbiz Hazard reduction burning and mechanical removal totalled 139,927 hectares for NSW (Appendix pages 98 and 99): 126,087 ha burning. 13,840 ha mechanical. Total 139,927 hectares There is difference in terminology used, some use hazard reduction burning, others use prescribed burning or controlled burning.  Another term used in ecological maintenance burning.  And of course, there is cultural burning. Unfortunately, areas of annual hazard reduction burning and mechanical reduction in NSW are both at very low rates and vary by year.  The areas of fuel reduction in NSW and estimated percentage of forested area based on 20 million hectares of forest in NSW were:   147,625 hectares in 2017/ 18 (estimated 0.7 % of NSW forested area); 199,248 hectares in 2018/ 19 (estimated 1.0 % of NSW forested area); 55,548 hectares in 2019/ 20 (estimated 0.3 % of NSW forested area); 176,499 hectares in 2020/ 21 (estimated 0.9 % of NSW forested area) and 44,642 hectares in 2021/ 22 (estimated 0.2 % of NSW forested area). 90,089 hectares in 2022/ 23 (estimated 0.5 % (actually 0.045 %) of NSW forested area). 139,927 hectares in 2023/ 24 (estimated 0.7 % of NSW forested area).   Over time, shortfalls and inadequate fuel reduction add up and result in build-up of very high fuel loads and strata across landscapes.   Only 4.3 % of the NSW forested landscape has received fuel treatment over the last seven years, this is extremely low and inadequate to reduce bushfire areas and risks to communities, firefighters, ecosystems, threatened species, protected areas and sites heritage sites.  This 7-year outcome represents an average of 0.6 % of forests treated per year. In addition, many of the forests with extensive hot intense bushfires of 2019/ 20 have high fuel loads and are now five years old.  In many cases there are extensive areas of dead trees, heavy grass/ bark fuel and dense understories, all contributing to a potential timebomb in many bushfire seasons. Bushfires have already occurred in these new fuels, one was described along the lines of a knife through butter, another was described as moving quickly through the understorey fuels. If we don’t increase prescribed burning and preparedness, SE Australia will continue to get more of the same intense bushfires with large impacts and forest death, as highlighted below: Photo: highlighting the large tree mortality impacts from an intense bushfire in southern NSW two years after the 2019/ 20 bushfires. There are large opportunities to expand the use of small aircraft, helicopters and drones for low intensity burning operations, using placed grid patterns for fires to join up in the cool of the evening and unburnt patches.   There are potential opportunities for a number of prescribed burning drones with individual brigades/ mitigation officers and fire regions In conclusion, these matters and opportunities are raised in order to optimise the safety of fire fighters, communities, forests, the environment and heritage sites, avoiding repeat large area intense bushfires as much as possible. The NSW Rural Fire Service 2023/2024 Annual Report is now on the web at https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/resources/publications/annual-reports You can read the John O’Donnell’s full article here.