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Timberlab plans to construct state-of-the-art CLT facility

Wed, 27/03/2024 - 00:27
Timberlab, a subsidiary of Swinerton Incorporated and a leading US provider of mass timber systems, unveiled its plans to construct and operate a state-of-the-art cross-laminated timber (CLT) manufacturing facility in Oregon’s mid-Willamette region. Source: Timberbiz This strategic initiative represents a significant milestone in the firm’s mission to accelerate the mainstream adoption of mass timber construction across the United States, providing a low-carbon and renewable material for the construction industry. “Timberlab’s objective has been to remove pinch points in the mass timber industry so that timber structures are affordable and widely usable in the US construction market,” said Timberlab President Chris Evans. “Over the last four years, we have added two CNC facilities in Portland, OR, and Greenville, SC, focused on expanding the supply chain for mass timber. The increase in mass timber demand, coupled with our successes over the last seven years, is driving us to continue to expand the supply chain by adding our new CLT manufacturing facility in Oregon.” Supported by an investment from Swinerton, plans for the 250,000-square-foot CLT manufacturing facility is poised to support the growing demand for sustainable construction alternatives nationwide. With an anticipated annual output of 100,000 cubic meters of finished CLT products, the facility will integrate automated processes and is expected to create 100 manufacturing jobs at full capacity becoming one of the largest facilities in the US. This endeavour and its employment opportunities will contribute to the region’s economic development while fostering a skilled workforce dedicated to advancing sustainable construction practices. As mass timber construction continued to grow across the US in 2023, Timberlab expanded its operations by opening an East Coast mass timber fabrication facility in Greenville, SC. The progression into manufacturing aligns seamlessly with both firms’ strategic visions and missions. The mid-Willamette Valley is the heart of the Pacific Northwest Mass Timber Tech Hub designated by the US Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) in 2023. Timberlab has ongoing collaboration with leading academic research programs at Oregon State University, the University of Oregon, and the Tall Wood Design Institute. Building this state-of-the-art manufacturing facility near these resources will drive innovation and position Timberlab, Swinerton, and the State of Oregon as catalysts in mass timber construction. “As early adopters of mass timber construction, we swiftly recognized the importance of managing the entire supply chain to ensure timely delivery, exceptional quality, and competitive pricing for our clients. Our new CLT manufacturing facility and two existing fabrication facilities bring us significantly closer to our vision,” said Swinerton Chief Executive Officer David Callis. “These facilities and our turnkey in-house design, procurement, and detailing services have positioned Timberlab, Swinerton, and the industry to make significant strides toward a sustainable built environment. I am thrilled about what this move means for sustainable construction in the US.”  

Field testing a new approach to forest management

Wed, 27/03/2024 - 00:26
New research initiative aims to bolster the social acceptability and resilience of forest management. A team from the University of Quebec in Outaouais (UQO) in Canada, led by Dr Christian Messier, is field-testing a new approach to forest management that leverages the natural strengths of forest ecosystems to positively shift the public’s perception of forestry while improving the resilience and adaptability of our forests. Source: Timberbiz Along with the National Council for Air and Stream Improvement (NCASI) and some 40 Canadian partners, Resolute is contributing Can$35,000 to the five-year (2023-2027), Can$6 million initiative that combines the expertise of the research team with experience from companies, universities, provinces, First Nations and NGOs, such as Ducks Unlimited Canada and Nature Conservancy of Canada. The project is focused on leveraging tree species diversity to improve long-term forest resilience, maximize recovery rates from environmental stressors such as climate change, and optimize the adaptability of forests without affecting harvesting levels. The initiative also aims to foster the social acceptability of this new approach to forest management. Over the years, Resolute has provided substantial financial support to universities to drive innovation in the forest products sector. Projects like this one will highlight all the benefits that flow from a well-managed forest.

The dismantling of the US timber industry mill by mill

Wed, 27/03/2024 - 00:26
It seems like every time a forest product mill or plant shuts down in the US (monthly if not weekly) it’s viewed as a singular isolated incident. But viewed collectively, the cumulative impacts and magnitude become more focused and apparent. Source: Timberbiz The American Loggers’ Council warns of the consequences saying that these individual incidents are all symptoms of a larger serious condition that diagnosed properly reveals and represents an unhealthy state of the US timber and forest products industries. Forest products mill/plant shutdowns directly impact the mill workers and community, but they also impact the logging sector that sustained that facility, although it is typically not addressed in these announcements. Tracking these shutdowns can serve as a barometer revealing the impacts and losses to logging companies. When mills close, logging companies close, and forest health suffers. While there has been some new mill construction and expansion, this cannot be assumed to be an equal offset. A mill opening 150 miles from where a mill closed, or that uses different species and wood specifications, does not equate to a net zero exchange. So, to merely compare lost production volume to new or expanding production outputs and ignore the geographic displacements or different timber specifications is not reflective of the direct losses and impacts. The brief summary of US forest products mill closures may not be all-inclusive, but it does document nearly 50 closures, reductions or curtailments, and it clearly represents an alarming trend during a short period of time (15 months), directly (mill workers) and indirectly (loggers) resulting in ten thousand or more jobs lost. While US forest products mills and facilities close, the US is now the leading global importer of softwood lumber as depicted by these pine products from New Zealand in a US big box store. According to the World Bank, the US imports more than US$40 billion in wood products from Canada, China and Brazil. In economic development it is easier to maintain your economic base rather than replace it. Supporting the existing forest products markets should be the first objective. However, many contributing factors leading to the decline of the US timber and forest products industries are government policy, regulations, restrictions, unfair trade practices, federal timber supply constraints, and incessant litigation. Many current government practices are harming the forests, environment, and economy. The good news is that there is a prescription and treatment to cure the disease. The US needs to be willing to take the medicine, follow the treatment (literally forest management treatment) and promote the utilization of all wood fibre removed from the forests. With forest treatments and wood utilization the health of the economy will be better, the health of the environment will be better, the health of the timber and forest products industries will be better, and the health of the forests will be better. But Congress and the Administration must write the prescription (policies and legislation) to cure the situation, or they can practice “skilful neglect” (the “professional” term for doing nothing) and perpetuate the continued decline of rural jobs and forest health, signing the death certificate. The forest-based bioeconomy can help replace the lost legacy markets and transition to renewable fuels, renewable energy, renewable chemicals, renewable industrial wood pellets, renewable building products, all produced from renewable timber. The Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) was developed to support much of this transition, yet the EPA has failed to fully implement many aspects of the RFS. The EPA misinterpretations, delayed processing, and self-imposed restrictions have impeded full implementation and leveraging of this opportunity. The US needs to administer the Renewable Fuel Standard as intended by Congress in order to facilitate the renewable energy transition. Forest-based biomass feedstock can provide the input material for renewable natural gas, hydrogen, Sustainable Aviation Fuel, electricity, coal conversion, and steel/concrete production. The US has not followed the rest of the developed nations with recognizing the carbon neutrality aspects and reduced greenhouse gas emissions of renewable biomass feedstock when replacing fossil fuels. The rest of the world has. The US is out of step with the accepted global science of biomass feedstock for energy production to address climate change. The US needs to develop a domestic bioeconomy market and policy just as the rest of the developed world has. Support of the timber, forest products, and bioeconomy sector’s growth will demonstrate a commitment to revitalizing America’s rural economy, communities, and ailing forest health, while developing and transitioning into renewable forest-based bioproducts. Forest health and the timber industry share a symbiotic relationship that is interdependent and mutually beneficial. Jan 2023: West Fraser Announces Indefinite Curtailment of Perry Sawmill in Florida, 126 jobs lost. Feb 2023: Georgia-Pacific closing facility in Texas, 166 jobs lost Feb 2023: Canton N.C,’s Evergreen Packaging scales back production Mar 2023: Pactiv Evergreen closing mill in Canton, North Carolina, 1000 jobs lost Mar 2023: Sonoco Hutchinson, Kansas Paper Mill closes, 116 employees laid off Mar 2023: Clearwater Paper closing Georgia facility, 150 jobs lost Mar 2023: Jay Pixelle paper mill stops making paper, 230 jobs lost Mar 2023: R.R. Donnelley closing Plainfield, Indiana facility, eliminating 79 jobs Mar 2023: ND Paper Old Town mill shutting down for extended period Apr 2023: Billerud temporarily idles Escanaba, Michigan mill Apr 2023: ReEnergy BioMass, Fort Hood, N.Y., 28 jobs lost Apr 2023: Nine Dragons Paper (ND), Extended downtime announced, Old Town, Maine and Fairmont W.Virginia. (recycled feedstock) May 2023: Cascades to Close Underperforming U.S. Tissue Plants, S.C., OR, 350 jobs lost May 2023: WestRock to Close Paper Mill in North Charleston, South Carolina, 500 jobs lost May 2023: Cascades: Permanent closure of a paper machine at the Niagara Falls mill, 40 jobs lost May 2023: PCA idling Wallula, Washington mill, 300 laid off. May 2023: Canton paper mill bell sounds for final time, signaling an end after 115 years Jun 2023: Graphic Packaging to close Auburn, Indiana site, 70 jobs lost Jun 2023: Western Forest Products to Temporarily Reduce Lumber Production Due to Weak Market Conditions Jun 2023: Roseburg […]

OFO invests to reduce wood waste

Wed, 27/03/2024 - 00:25
Even though wood is a renewable product, essential to the modern way of life, generally the market dictates what is valued, and for forestry this means big logs. The remaining slash (branches, stumps and offcuts) is then considered a waste product. Source: Timberbiz Forestry company OneFortyOne believes that this wood waste is both a design and a market flaw and is putting its collective minds towards finding useful applications for this wood fibre previously only viewed as a problem. Mark Coghill, OneFortyOne Operations Manager, says the company has invested close to a million dollars into the biofuel project since late 2021. “The majority of the investment made has gone towards collecting, measuring, and storing the wood fibre. Over the next five years we hope to reduce the amount of wood waste (or slash) in our forests by at least 75,000 tonnes. That’s enough wood to fill 2,000 logging trucks or cover 10 rugby pitches piled three metres high,” he explains. In a recent breakthrough, the company has signed a new five-year agreement with Canterbury Woodchip Supplies which will see wood fibre previously left in the forest now turned into biofuel, a renewable resource which can displace environmentally damaging coal. The timing of this coincides with local company JS Ewers new biomass boiler upgrade, and some of the wood will be used in their new boiler. With New Zealand committed to reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, this development gives the Nelson Tasman area, where OneFortyOne manages its extensive forests, a path towards reducing its environmental footprint by choosing clean renewable fuel over environmentally damaging coal. There’s plenty of headroom for this product, as OneFortyOne’s forests cover some 80,000 hectares in Nelson Tasman and Marlborough, with a harvest of more than 1.2 million cubic metres each year. Removing such a massive quantity of otherwise unvalued material from the forests and turning it into biofuel in the form of woodchips could help local businesses avoid burning more than 22 thousand tonnes of coal over five years, says Mr Coghill, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by a whopping 50,000 tonnes. With a good deal of New Zealand’s coal being imported, there is a multiplier effect achieved, by using a locally developed product as an effective coal substitute. Furthermore, as the forests from which the wood is removed are renewable resources – currently, OneFortyOne’s plantations are in their fourth rotation, being replanted with new seedlings after every harvest – the wood itself is a regenerating asset. Mr Coghill says slash is often regarded as a problem for the forestry industry generally, but notes that OneFortyOne decided to look at it as an opportunity instead. That led to talks with Canterbury Woodchips, a seasoned operator producing various processed wood products for use in parks, playgrounds, as animal bedding and industrial boilers and other heating sources. Mr Coghill notes ‘huge potential’ for the project if scaled up, adding that ‘it could be a game-changer for New Zealand in creating a sustainable source of bioenergy.’ Even as the ink dries on the contract with Canterbury Woodchips, Mr Coghill says other avenues for turning trash into treasure are being explored. “We continually look for ways to improve slash management. Replacing fossil fuels with bioenergy alternatives can help meet emission targets and create new opportunities for the local economy,” he said. As a result of that continued work and investment, another promising emerging use for slash is as feedstock for the production of biochar. This carbon-rich solid product is produced from the pyrolysis (heating in the absence of oxygen) of biomass residues. Biochar is agriculturally useful, as a supplement added into feedstock it can reduce the methane produced from cows, it can improve soil properties, while offering further potential by sequestering carbon and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. “As we look to the future and further innovation to help the environment, there is more wood fibre available and we are ready to work with other organisations to reduce the impact of slash, prevent climate damage, and create economic opportunities for the Top of the South region,” Mr Coghill said.  

Women in Wood Fibre

Wed, 27/03/2024 - 00:24
Australian Bluegum Plantation’s inaugural Women in Wood Fibre celebration has been branded a stand-out success with plans to make the gathering an annual industry-wide event. Source: Timberbiz More than 40 ABP staff, Glenelg Shire Council Mayor Karen Stephens, Food and Fibre Great South Coast chair Oonagh Kilpatrick and key industry stakeholders joined for the celebratory lunch as part of International Women’s Day festivities at the iconic Cape Bridgewater Surf Life Saving Club. ABP’s Career Pathway participants Hannah Aldridge and Georgina Malkin coordinated the festivities securing headline keynote speaker, ABC News personality, Kirsten Diprose. Mrs Diprose, who is a regular contributor on ABC Radio Melbourne’s Conversation Hour and former ABC TV News Breakfast weather presenter, spoke of the challenges of achieving a high-flying journalism career whilst balancing family obligations at her Caramut farm. The rural advocate promoted the importance of the food and fibre sector collaborating to generate broader social license to attract the next generation of female leaders. The former Sydneysider, who grew up in Penrith before finding rural roots, highlighted the mental and social challenges faced by rural women attempting to find their place in a historically male dominated agricultural field. Mrs Diprose created the Rural Podcasting Co, a podcast coaching and agency service, specifically for people in rural areas. She also founded and co-hosts the podcast ‘Ducks on the Pond’ specifically targeted at rural women. ABP HR Manager Sheri Tarr applauded the coordinating efforts of emerging leader’s Ms Aldridge and Ms Malkin who were gaining more self-confidence and building new skills as a result of the organisations dynamic three-year Career Pathway training. The development program has supported Ms Malkin to transition from being ABP’s first female bulldozer operator to a harvest supervisor role, completing a Certificate 4 in Forestry while Ms Aldridge, the Portland Chip Terminal administrator, is completing a Certificate 4 in Business. “ABP is proud to invest time and resources empowering our next generation of leaders, building career pathways and supporting innovative workplaces to inspire the best outcomes for our people,” Ms Tarr said. “This Women in Wood Fibre event celebrates the valuable role women play right across our organisation, from operating machinery and silviculture management to speaking in the boardroom. About a quarter of our workforce is female with many women fulfilling key leadership roles in what have been historically male dominated fields. “This event is an important time to reflect on how we can all work together to inspire further inclusion for all in our workplaces and broader communities, pausing to celebrate and recognise all of the wonderful women in our lives.” ABP CEO Russ Hughes presented Ms Aldridge with Melinda Gates’ book The Moment of Lift: Empowering Women Changes the World, which highlights the importance of investing in women. Mrs Aldridge is due to shortly take maternity leave to welcome her first child.

NZ Forest Owners elect Matt Wakelin as its new president

Wed, 27/03/2024 - 00:19
The New Zealand Forest Owners Association has elected Matt Wakelin as its new president. Mr Wakelin was elected during FOA’s Annual General Meeting replacing retiring president Grant Dodson. Source: Timberbiz Portfolio manager for New Forests, Mr Wakelin has extensive experience stemming from a lifelong career in forestry managing forest estates, port services operations, log supply and residues sales for log processing facilities and offering his sector expertise in an executive and corporate capacity. He said New Zealand’s plantation forests, and the forest owners that supported them, would be critical for achieving a greener future. “Our plantation forests sequester more than half the country’s annual carbon dioxide emissions and are the only real tool we have available right now to counter rising emissions and meet the 2050 targets,” he said. Mr Wakelin said that the sector also holds the largest role in supporting New Zealand’s emerging bioeconomy. “Wood chip, pellets and other forms of wood fibre are progressively replacing coal as an alternative, eco-friendly source of fuel. Carbon intensive materials such as steel and concrete are being subbed out for quality, carbon-locking timber too. “The innovative use of wood residues such as pine pollen in the likes of pharmaceutical and skin care products is also changing the way we see and use wood and has real potential to grow the sector,” he said. “It’s an exciting time to be stepping in as FOA President and supporting the sector on that growth trajectory.” Forest Owners Association chief executive Dr Elizabeth Heeg acknowledges the leadership and support of outgoing president Grant Dodson, during his two-year term. “Grant’s keen observations, industry practicality and deep knowledge of matters outside forestry have become a valuable legacy for our industry as it meets the challenges and opportunities ahead,” she said. Kate Rankin (Wenita Forest Products Ltd) and Darren Man (Earnslaw One) were also elected to the executive council, replacing Steve Chandler and Rowan Struthers respectively. Dean Witehira (Timberlands) will replace Tim Sandall as Vice President for the coming term. “Steve and Rowan have been a real asset to the executive council. Their commitment to representing forest owner interests, particularly their contributions to the sector’s training, careers and labour space, will have a lasting impact,” Dr Heeg said. “We are excited to welcome our new executive members and look forward to seeing their skills, knowledge and fresh perspectives in action.”

George Prothero honoured by FTMA with service award

Wed, 27/03/2024 - 00:19
George Prothero, a respected and admired person within in the timber frame and truss sector, has been honoured with the prestigious 2024 Clive Martella Service to Industry Award in a ceremony surrounded by industry stalwarts at the 2024 FTMA National Conference. Source: Timberbiz This award celebrates Mr Prothero’s monumental near half-century career, beginning when he was just 15 years old and culminating in his own business at Alpine Truss, which has become a beacon of innovation and excellence in the industry. Under his guidance, Alpine Truss became known not just for its exceptional products and safety protocols, but also for its employee-centric culture and significant contributions to the local economy, establishing Mr Prothero as a community figure in Wangaratta. Beyond his professional achievements, Mr Prothero is recognised for his commitment to the well-being of his employees, fostering a familial atmosphere within his company, and his significant contributions to the local economy as one of the largest employers in Wangaratta. The Clive Martella Service to Industry Award is presented to individuals who demonstrate outstanding service, leadership, and commitment to the timber frame and truss sector. Mr Prothero’s receipt of this year’s award underscores his role not only as a visionary leader but as a driving force for industry collaboration and advancement. Upon receiving this distinguished honour, Mr Prothero shared his appreciation for the collective spirit of the industry and the crucial support of his team at Alpine Truss. “I am deeply humbled by this recognition, which truly belongs to the entire Alpine Truss family and our collaborators across the industry,” he said, reinforcing his belief in unity and teamwork as the foundation of his and the industry’s achievements. The award ceremony also saw the unveiling of a symbolic timber slab trophy, engraved with Mr Prothero’s name and decorated with the FTMA logo, signifying the strength and unity of the timber and truss community. Mr Prothero’s legacy will no doubt inspire current and future generations in the timber frame and truss industry, embodying the spirit of innovation, leadership, and community service that the Clive Martella Service to Industry Award celebrates.

Dahlsens Steel Truss and Frame receives grant to employ 16 native timber workers

Wed, 27/03/2024 - 00:18
Newmerella-based businesses Dahlsens Steel Truss and Frame and partners Built QA have received a $500,000 Forestry Transition Fund grant to expand their operations and directly employ up to 16 East Gippsland native timber workers. Source: Timberbiz The business has begun employing former sawmill workers, with the grant supporting new roles in steel truss and frame manufacturing, fabrication, labouring and administration. Over the next 12 months the grant will help expand the business’ operations on a former sawmill site located at Newmerella. The site has potential to become Newmerella’s industrial hub, further boosting job opportunities. Dahlsens Steel Truss and Frame director Lachlan Heather is an Orbost local from a multi-generational family of native hardwood timber workers. He recently moved back to Orbost to establish the steel truss and frame business after seeing a market for steel products and access to a local workforce with a suitable skillset. The Forestry Transition Fund provides grants up to $1 million for businesses and industry groups to expand, diversify or start new businesses. Applicants that provide direct and ongoing employment to former native timber workers will receive a $20,000 wage subsidy per worker in addition to their grant. A new Forestry Information Coordinator, Cory Lindfield, is now located in Orbost, to provide support to East Gippsland communities impacted by the native timber harvesting transition. Native timber workers, businesses and community members can contact Mr Lindfield for advice and help to navigate the support services and programs available, including information about grant opportunities. “The Dahlsen family has been servicing Orbost and surrounding area for over 100 years, and we are optimistic that the venture will be very successful and great for Orbost by offering local employment to support the retention of families in the area,” JC Dahlsen Pty Ltd chairman John Dahlsen said. Gippsland East MP Tim Bull said the business had more capacity to grow and called on the State Government to commit even more following its decision to end native timber harvesting. “This kneejerk decision by a premier on his way out the door has ripped hundreds of jobs out of our community with no solid plan to keep these families in the region,” Mr Bull told the Weekly Times. “It would be good if the new Premier ensured these workers were all being looked after individually, as I know that is not the case.”

Opinion: Dr Michelle Freeman – standing up for forestry scientists

Wed, 27/03/2024 - 00:18
Having a high profile should not provide anyone a free pass to speak disrespectfully and unfairly about others. Forestry Australia is appalled by the misinformation about forest scientists and professionals that has been perpetuated by lobbyists and anti-forestry campaigners in recent media articles. It is hard not to think that such narratives have been constructed to suit certain agendas. Statements made are not universally supported by forest scientists, and do not recognise the knowledge, expertise and credibility of Australia’s world-leading forest scientists. It is also disappointing that recent coverage has not included these other voices. Forestry Australia is a not-for-profit, independent professional association with 1,200 members. Our members are individuals who have high levels of scientific expertise and extensive operational experience. They operate across all aspects of forest, fire and land management, farm forestry and tree growing throughout Australia. Some of our members are current or past employees of State forest agencies responsible for timber harvesting. These forest scientists and professionals are among the most dedicated and passionate individuals, who make significant and under-acknowledged contributions to forest management, forest conservation and provision of renewable, sustainable and responsibly sourced timber for the Australian public. This contribution furthers our understanding of forest ecology and forest fire management. It also includes operational expertise in active and adaptive management options that are crucial for building climate resilience and mitigating wildfires. These forest scientists make significant contributions to managing and conserving our forests for the benefit of society. They provide elite and specialised firefighting capacity to all major wildfire events, collect and apply seed to revegetate forests severely degraded by bushfires, and are at the forefront of technological advancement such as drones and sophisticated apps to record and monitor forest values. In addition, they conduct the most comprehensive threatened species monitoring programs that exist in this country, and oversee comprehensive management plans that provide high quality, sustainable local hardwood timbers. It is time to move on from these tiresome, divisive and outmoded forest wars. Australia needs forest management decisions to be informed by pragmatic, open minded, evidence-based and credible voices who engaged in positive dialogue regarding future forest management. In doing so, it is only right that we recognise the immense positive contributions of the forest scientists and forestry professionals who have dedicated their careers to evidence-based care for our forests. Dr Michelle Freeman is Forestry Australia president and has a double degree in Forestry and Science (Ecology), and a PhD from the University of Melbourne.

Hyne Group expands acquiring Rodpak pallets

Wed, 27/03/2024 - 00:17
The Hyne Group is moving into pallet manufacturing following the acquisition of Melbourne-based pallet and packaging manufacturer Rodpak. Source: Timberbiz This announcement comes just over two years since the Hyne Group partnership with UK based company, James Jones and Sons Ltd, and the combined Group’s focus on achieving growth and expansion. Hyne Group CEO, Jim Bindon said the acquisition is an exciting addition for the company: “Rodpak is a highly regarded business with a long history in the manufacture of softwood timber pallets, with quality equipment and technology, and great customer relationships. All these factors are very consistent with the core position of the Hyne Group, which has operated in Australia for over 140 years,” he said. “While it will be business as usual for Rodpak’s brand, staff, suppliers and customers, being a part of the Hyne Group brings the strengths of the international connections with James Jones and Sons Ltd, who are a leading pallet manufacturer in Europe with several sites throughout the United Kingdom. “The broader security of being a part of a large timber manufacturing business, also brings further certainty for the Rodpak business and its customer base,” Mr Bindon said. The Hyne Group has been a long-term supplier of timber to the pallet industry, and this remains a core focus for the sawmilling operations. Mr Bindon said the Hyne strategy was not to add new capacity to the pallet market, but rather work with customers and industry participants who were ready to exit the industry or explore strategic partnerships as part of their own succession process. “Continuing to supply these long-term Hyne pallet customers remains an essential part of the broader Group strategy,” he said. “This acquisition has no impact to our high-quality, structural framing product range for the construction sector, which continues to be a critical focus for the Hyne Timber business. “I am very pleased the current owner, Dean Roderick, will be staying on with the business, as he is well respected in the market and indeed internationally within the pallet sector. Dean has been known to the James Jones & Sons pallet business for some years, and he is most highly regarded by them also,” Mr Bindon said. Mr Roderick said the new ownership model was a welcome move to take the company forward. “Becoming part of a national and global ownership model is a significant milestone for us as a business, for our team members, customers and suppliers and we have been pleased with the process to get to this point,” he said. “Rodpak is a great business with strong partnerships, built over many years. With the local strength and global reach of the Hyne Group, I am very confident the company is moving in a great direction, and I personally look forward to working with the broader Hyne Group team.” The full acquisition of Rodpak will finalise on 1 May 2024 subject to all Completion Precedents being met.

Uni of Toronto aims to display best practice wooden building

Fri, 22/03/2024 - 00:55
The proposed Academic Wood Tower build at the University of Toronto, Canada will be an iconic, precedent-setting building at a unique site on St. George campus. The tower will be the Canada’s tallest academic timber building. It is intended that the tower become a prototype for the use of mass timber both nationally and worldwide. Source: Timberbiz Given the prominent sustainable effort driving the project, the design approach will both reveal this unique timber structure to the street, while also responsibly designing the building envelope to respond to its four unique solar conditions via a passive design strategy. The intent is one that responds specifically to its context, while also delivering the highest energy performance and thermal comfort solution. The site offers a strong, highly visible location. A fully glazed façade to the north will showcase a timber structure to great effect along the Bloor St corridor. The ability to expose underside of timber decks will provide an attractive finished ceiling, with a resulting interior character evocative of Toronto loft buildings. The Academic Wood Tower will primarily accommodate the academic and research requirements of three groups: Rotman School of Management, the Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy in the Faculty of Arts and Science and the Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education. Even prior to construction, the Academic Wood Tower was attracting significant attention for its innovative design. Designed by award-winning Canadian firms Patkau Architects and MJMA Architecture & Design with consulting from Blackwell Structural Engineers and Smith+Andersen, the Academic Wood Tower’s unique and sustainable structure has already won a Canadian Architect Award of Excellence. The same team worked on U of T’s Goldring Centre for High Performance Sport, which included the tower’s foundation and basement as part of its construction. Now, with the first deliveries of mass-timber components to the site, construction of the Academic Wood Tower is proceeding under the management of industry leader Pomerleau. The university anticipates completing the building in 2026. The building is expected to serve as a case study for designers and engineers who can analyze this milestone achievement and potentially apply the tower’s best practices to their own projects.

Indonesia’s wildfire control

Fri, 22/03/2024 - 00:54
Indonesia’s 2019 wildfires burned 3.1 million hectares, an area bigger than Belgium, blanketed six other countries in smoky haze, released almost 604 million tonnes of CO2 and caused some 900,000 people to report respiratory illnesses. The fires also inflicted US$5.2 billion in losses in Indonesia, according to the World Bank, adding to the US$16 billion caused by even larger fires in 2015. Source: Timberbiz According to the UN Environment Program (UNEP) worse is still to come; the UN body expects a 14% increase in forest fires globally by 2030 due to a mixture of climate change and changing land use. But in Indonesia, a UNEP-led integrated fire management pilot project, financed by USAID, has, since 2021, helped build greater fire resistance in three of the country’s most fire-prone districts. It draws inspiration from a “cluster-based” approach towards land management practiced in South Africa bringing together the knowhow of community fire-fighting brigades like Marlizar’s, the reach of government agencies, and the resources of some of Indonesia’s largest private companies. The project’s aim of enhancing coordination between community, government, and private land users could hold lessons for fire-prone countries around the world. “Forest fires inflict massive humanitarian, environmental and economic costs, especially when they occur on carbon-rich peatlands, so it’s in everyone’s interest to prevent them from breaking out,” says UNEPs program officer Johan Kief. “Indonesia has set ambitious goals on halting deforestation and reducing carbon emissions—reducing the risk of fires is a key component of achieving them.” After UNEP began forming fire prevention clusters in 2021, no fire hotspots were found in the first pilot district, Central Kalimantan’s Pulang Pisau, in the 2022 dry season. In Riau’s Pelalawan district, where Teluk Maranti is located, the number of reported fires decreased from 139 in 2021 to 88 in 2022. In South Sumatra’s Ogan Komering Ilir district, the third pilot area, the number of reported fires declined from 345 to 109. Based on the results achieved in the initial three pilot districts, the project is expanding to a further six priority districts, with the aim of eventually implementing the approach nationwide. “The efficacy of collaborative approaches to fire prevention has been proven through these clusters. Sharing the experience of these three districts not just in Indonesia, but also to other peat-rich and fire-prone countries in Latin America and southern Africa, is a contribution from Indonesia to the world,” said Bambang Suryaputra, Head of the Centre for Operation Control at Indonesia’s disaster prevention agency, BNPB. Indonesia has the third largest area of forest cover in the world, behind only Brazil and the Democratic Republic of Congo. But as with elsewhere on an archipelago that was 84% forest in 1900, the road that leads from Riau’s provincial capital Pekabaru to the UNEP pilot district Palalawan, tells the story of how industry and agriculture has led the forest to recede. Kilometre after kilometre, the cacophony of jungle has been replaced with uniform blocks of squat glossy green oil palm, spindly brown acacia, and white dappled rubber. At least 14 companies hold concessions in Palalawan district. One of the largest is paper and pulp maker APRIL, with some 150,000 hectares of acacia estate. Most fires in Palalawan break out on community rather than company land, APRIL’s deputy chief of fire and emergency response, Mr. Yuneldi says, but even when fires occur outside the company’s estate, APRIL has sent its ample resources, equipment, and personnel to assist the police and military in putting down fires. Equipped with satellite imaging and real time weather tracking technology, the resources at APRIL’s fire centre are a far cry from those available to community firefighters like Marlizar and his team, who gauge the dryness of the peatland they patrol by the way it falls through their fingers. It is these differences in resources that UNEP’s cluster approach is designed to address, through developing an integrated strategy to take on a challenge that affects everyone. In Teluk Meranti, community-based awareness raising efforts are paying off: new signage cautions fishers and bird hunters against tossing cigarette butts or starting cooking fires, and farmers have a better understand of the risks involved in burning dry peatland.

Forestry and wood industry jobs rise in the EU

Fri, 22/03/2024 - 00:54
Forestry and wood industry jobs were up 1.4% from 2012 to 2022 in Europe. In 2022, 3.6 million people worked in different fields in forestry and wood-based industry in the EU, a 1.4% increase compared with 2012. Source: Timberbiz Total employment in all areas in the EU increased by 8.4% between 2012 and 2022. In terms of employment status, 3.2 million people were employed in activities related to forestry and wood-based industry in 2022 (classified by NACE Rev. 2), and another 411 000 people were self-employed in that sector. The activity that employed the most people in the forestry and wood-based industry was the manufacture of furniture, which recorded a total of 1.1 million employed people and 165 000 self-employed people. From 2012 to 2022, employment in this field increased 0.9%.

Killarney sawmill was a symphony of industry

Fri, 22/03/2024 - 00:54
In the small town of Killarney, in Queensland, where the whispers of timber mingle with the hum of machinery, Ralph Affleck crafted a symphony of industry all on his own. His sawmill wasn’t just a place of work; it was a testament to determination, craftsmanship, and a life lived with purpose. Source: Warwick Today Timber ran deep in Ralph’s veins, his journey beginning at the age of 16 in the timber industry. From driving steam log winders to crafting his own double-sided skidder tractor decades later, Ralph’s passion for woodworking knew no bounds. His solo-operational sawmill was more than a retirement project; it was a manifestation of a lifetime’s dedication to the timber trade. With meticulous planning and countless hours among the sawdust, Ralph brought his vision to life, sketching designs in 3D with a 30cm ruler to ensure every piece fit seamlessly together. Ralph was a unique man whose drive and commitment influenced everyone around him especially his son Bruce Affleck. “He was a really good role model, who instilled good life and work values into us,“ Bruce said. “The timber industry was his life, so to see him push to fruition a project he was so passionate about even so late in his life was heartening.” On top of creating one of the only solo-operating sawmills, Ralph’s hard work also became a popular tourist spot. Visitors could come and watch one man transform timber with a smile and a laugh. Despite numerous accidents and setbacks, Ralph’s commitment never wavered. In a Landline documentary, Ralph happily supplied the story of his now nine toes while showing off all 10 fingers. “Dad has had numerous accidents in his logging career, he was constantly getting badly injured but it never stopped him,” Bruce said. “He always went back because that was where he was happy.” Bruce recalled his favourite memories with his dad to be centred around logging. “As a kid, I used to go logging with him in the bush and watch him pull the logs on his tractor then as I grew up I worked with him,” Bruce said. Even in his late 80s, Ralph refused to retire. It was only after a fall left him unconscious that he reluctantly stepped away from his beloved mill. A few years later, Ralph passed away at 94. His passing left a void in everyone he has touched, but his legacy lives on in the memories of those who knew him. As his family sorts through the remnants of his workshop, the future of the sawmill remains uncertain. Insurance hurdles and logistical challenges cloud the path forward, leaving the mill dormant for now. Yet, amidst the silence of the saw blades, Ralph’s spirit endures—a reminder that age is no barrier to creativity, and commitment knows no bounds. The sawmill in Killarney may no longer echo with the sounds of industry, but it stands as a monument to Ralph’s indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication.

Popular poplars and willows subsidised in New Zealand

Fri, 22/03/2024 - 00:52
Poplars and willows offer a host of benefits including stabilising land which helps hold fertile soil in place instead of running into waterways and estuaries during storm events. Source: Timberbiz Northland Regional Council (NRC) member Rick Stolwerk says the benefits the two species offer is one of the reasons it subsidises both trees from the Mata nursery near Whangarei in New Zealand. “Keeping fertile soils on the land is in the interest of all Northlanders and without the protection poplars and other trees afford, hills can simply erode and wash away in severe rainstorms.” Councillor Stolwerk says eroded sediment is Northland’s biggest natural pollutant, research showing the Bay of Islands alone has lost an average of 500,000 tonnes annually for the past century. “Preventing erosion at source, for both environmental and economic reasons – is one of the reasons the regional council has invested heavily in its poplar and willow nursery.” He describes poplars and willows as the ‘unsung heroes’ of our rural environment as without the protection the trees offer, many of our hills would seriously erode in bad storms. The councillor (who represents the NRC’s Coastal South constituency the Flyger Rd nursery sits in) says poplars and willows offer a host of benefits. “They stabilise pastoral hill country, sequester carbon, provide timber, reduce sediment runoff, improve water quality, provide stock shade and enhance the farm environment.” Every year about this time the NRC invites landowners with erosion-prone properties from Topuni north to order subsidised poplar and willow material from the Flyger Rd nursery for the approaching winter planting season. Orders are open now and the council’s nursery manager John Ballinger says a poplar or willow will cost between NZ$1.15 to NZ$45.00 (GST exclusive) depending on size and whether it’s planted for erosion control or another purpose. Mr Ballinger says protective sleeves for 3m poles (largest size of tree) are NZ$7.50 (GST excl) each and depending on contractor availability, the regional council is also heavily subsidising the planting of poplars and willows up to an additional NZ $7.00 (GST excl) per tree. Mr Ballinger says due to cyclone damage last year, there are a limited number of 3m poles this year, but an abundance of 1m wands. Wands are cheaper than poles and are a good alternative for areas that can be easily fenced (temporarily or permanently). Demand usually outstrips supply, so people are being urged to order them sooner rather than later. “While payment doesn’t have to be made until 20 June, we will stop taking orders on 13 May or when stocks are all sold, whichever comes sooner.” Anyone interested in securing trees should contact a member of the council’s land management staff on (0800) 002 004 or email: nursery@nrc.govt.nz to arrange a consultation. Councillor Stolwerk says the fast-growing trees have broad and binding root systems and have been widely used for years in Northland to prevent and control erosion and cut waterway sediment pollution. “Although neither species is native, their rapid growth rates mean they can control erosion quickly, enabling grazing to continue without the need to retire the entire paddock.” Furthermore, in summer they provide shade for livestock and in winter drop their leaves allowing the grass to grow making them ideal trees for pastoral farming. He says general information about establishing poplars and willows is also available from the council’s website via: www.nrc.govt.nz/poplars Meanwhile, Cr Stolwerk says if a property is located within the Kaipara Catchment, either the Northland or Auckland part of the Kaipara Catchment – Kaipara Moana Remediation is now supplying poplar poles and wand material for soil conservation and erosion control. (KMR does not supply willow material.) If you are interested in accessing materials with expert advice, please express your interest at our website https://kmr.org.nz/landowner-expression-of-interest/ or email hono@kmr.org.nz “If you are currently working with KMR please discuss this with your field advisor.” “Kaipara Moana Remediation will send experts out to help you make a planting plan and place your order from the NRC nursery.”

Hyne Community Trust opens for applications in June

Fri, 22/03/2024 - 00:52
The Hyne Community Trust will once again, open for applications in June 2024 for this year’s round of grants. Eligible community organisations are encouraged to consider how the Hyne Community Trust can support them to deliver lasting benefits to the Tumbarumba region. Source: Timberbiz An example of a successful project is the Tumbarumba Tennis Club who applied for a grant in 2022 to replace the leaky roof and install a new ceiling for the clubhouse. Hyne Community Trust Chair, Kerrie Downes said the Tumbarumba Tennis Club has been at the heart of the community for over 50 years as the only tennis facility in the region. “Utilised by individuals and school groups alike, restoration of the club house was a stand-out application. “None of the local schools have tennis courts so the club is the only place for our youth, and people of all ages to learn and enjoy the sport. “Fixing the roof to enable better use of the clubhouse is a project which the Trust considered lasting benefit, a key-criteria for any applicant! “Like many projects nationwide, Tumbarumba is certainly not immune to the trades shortages, and we have been able to support the Tennis Club to extend their grant timeframe. “I am pleased to see the work now completed and we intend to utilise the club house ourselves for some of our future committee meetings.” Ms Downes said. Club Publicity Officer and Treasurer, Michael Schwab said on behalf of the committee that they are pleasantly surprised at the level of interest in tennis from the Tumbarumba community and beyond. “Having a safe and well-sheltered clubhouse for the children is important during hot summer months. “We are thrilled to host the hundreds of children that have enjoyed tennis coaching over the tennis seasons under new coach Brock Dixon. “The lovely surroundings and good facilities at the club ensure that tennis remains an enjoyable, social sport, and one of the key summer activities in Tumbarumba. “The Committee is grateful for the patience and generosity of the Hyne Community Trust and their continuing support of local sport in the community.” Mr Schwab said. Tumbarumba regional community groups are reminded the Hyne Community Trust will open for applications on 1 June and close 30 June 2024. Community groups considering applying for a Hyne Community Trust grant should start reviewing the 2024 guidelines available here: https://www.hyne.com.au/about/community Projects must be valued over $10,000 to meet the criteria. The application form will be made available once the 2024 round is open on 1 June. The Hyne Community Trust was established in 2007and has provided approximately $800,000 to the Tumbarumba region to date.

NZ rural report shows forestry looking more positive

Fri, 22/03/2024 - 00:44
According to the New Zealand ASB Rural Quarterly report dairy rebounds, forestry is looking up as meat prices lag, but overall, there was a more positive outlook for the sector. Source: Timberbiz ASB’s latest Rural Quarterly report out contained a more positive outlook for the sector compared with previous quarters, as prices for key commodities have rebounded and forecasts have been nudged upwards. The downturn in forestry prices came earlier and hit harder than the softening in other commodities, particularly given the concentration of the sector in China. “With Chinese economic activity projected to slow in 2024 (albeit not as much as previously expected), and the Chinese property market not looking particularly flash, we are expecting modest support from the export market. “However, we are anticipating a slightly more supportive environment domestically. With OCR cuts likely in the second half of the year, we expect house prices to gain ground over the course of the year somewhere in the region of 7-8%. “That’s a much slower upswing than during the last house price cycle, but should bolster construction activity and ultimately domestic demand for New Zealand forestry products to some degree.” ASB General Manager Rural Banking Aidan Gent says the bank’s farmers and growers have shown great resilience, and ASB is committed to backing food and fibre. “The combination of fluctuating commodity prices, on-farm inflation, Official Cash Rate rises and some extreme weather events have tested the resilience of our farmers and growers. The food and fibre sector, as always, has shown great resilience. We have been proud to both continue to support our existing customers through these challenging times, as well as welcome new customers to ASB. “We are excited about the future of food and fibre in New Zealand and committed to providing support to the sector to enable it to continue to be productive and profitable. There are always challenges, but we believe from challenge comes opportunity and we are backing the sector all the way.” ASB Economist Nathaniel Keall says the more bullish growth outlook has a lot to do with changing expectations around what monetary policy will do. “Markets have become more bullish that rates won’t need to move as high, and the global economy might manage the fabled ‘soft landing.’ Traditionally ‘safe’ assets like government bonds and the US dollar are out of favour, and ‘risk’ assets like equities and commodities are back in vogue.” Dairy prices have managed a decent rebound of about 22% since their lowest point earlier in the season but are still around 30% below the peaks they enjoyed the previous year. “The main feature of recent auctions has been the enduring absence of Chinese purchases. Over the past three months, the world’s largest dairy importer has purchased less than 40% of the Whole Milk Powder (WMP) on offer at each auction, versus a historical average of 55-60%. While a weaker global economy curbed commodity prices in general in 2023, meat consumption looks to have been harder hit than some other staple commodities. “Accounting for adverse currency movement given the higher NZD, the average producer is earning a little over 9% less than they were at this point in the previous season – and as much as 21% below what they could hope to be paid at this stage in the 2022 season. “Lower demand has crashed into stronger meat supply in many parts of the world. Oversupply has been an acute issue in the Australasian lamb market, explaining the sustained weakness in lamb prices. “Australian lamb production rose a whopping 13% to record highs in calendar year 2023, releasing a glut of supply onto global meat markets and placing downward pressure on wholesale prices.  

Extravagant lifestyles preaching to timber communities

Fri, 22/03/2024 - 00:43
Mick Harrington of Forest and Wood Communities Australia has shone the spotlight on the Australian Greens and celebrity activist Leonardo DiCaprio in an opinion piece that asks them to practice what they preach. Source: Timberbiz Mr Harrington says: In the ongoing debate over calls for the banning of native timber harvesting, voices like Adam Bandt, leader of the Australian Greens, and celebrity activist Leonardo DiCaprio often take center stage, championing environmental causes and preaching about the urgency of protecting our planet via banning native timber harvesting in Australia. However, their lofty rhetoric is tainted by a glaring hypocrisy – their own extravagant lifestyles, characterized by emissions-heavy habits that directly contradict their environmental idiocy. Adam Bandt, the alleged self-proclaimed messiah of environmentalism, stands accused of egregious hypocrisy as reports reveal his extensive use of private jets, racking up a staggering bill of $23,000 in taxpayer funds for these emissions-intensive flights. Furthermore, his staff’s travel expenses, totalling a whopping $372,000, paint a picture of lavishness at odds with the low-emissions frugality preached by the Greens. Similarly, Leonardo DiCaprio, a vocal advocate for climate action, has come under scrutiny for his lavish lifestyle, which includes frequent use of private jets and indulgence in luxury yachting. DiCaprio’s choice of transportation, including the infamous Topaz, a 147-meter-long super yacht known for its prodigious fuel consumption of approximately 800 litres of diesel per hour, stands in stark contrast to his impassioned calls for improving worldwide environmental outcomes. It would also be interesting to know what DiCaprio thinks of the practically unregulated timber harvesting happening in countries such as the Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Borneo and Brazil (amongst many others). The irony is palpable – while Bandt and DiCaprio launch ill-informed lectures at the public regarding the necessity of banning native timber harvesting to protect the environment, their own extravagant lifestyles emit copious amounts of greenhouse gases, contributing to the very environmental degradation they claim to abhor. This hypocrisy becomes especially egregious when considering the impact of their advocacy on timber communities. By advocating for policies that would devastate livelihoods in these communities – ironically using a renewable and carbon storing material, Bandt and ill-informed celebrities like DiCaprio demonstrate a shocking lack of empathy and understanding of the real-world consequences of their actions. The proposed ban on native timber harvesting, championed by Bandt and echoed by DiCaprio, would deal a severe blow to timber-dependent communities, robbing hardworking Australians of their livelihoods and exacerbating socio-economic disparities in regional areas. Furthermore, the disconnect between Bandt, DiCaprio, and the everyday people in timber communities underscores the elitism inherent in their environmental extremism. While they jet-set around the globe in luxury, enjoying the trappings of extreme privilege, it is the working-class Australians in timber communities who would bear the brunt of the policies they advocate for. It is high time for Bandt, DiCaprio, and their ilk to practice what they preach. If they truly believe in the urgency of addressing climate change and protecting the environment, they must lead by example and make tangible changes to their own lifestyles. This includes eschewing private jets and luxury yachts in favor of more sustainable modes of transportation and embracing a more modest way of living. Moreover, they must listen to the voices of those directly impacted by their advocacy – the hardworking Australians whose livelihoods hang in the balance. Instead of dictating policies from a position of privilege, they should engage in meaningful dialogue with timber communities, seeking solutions that balance environmental conservation with economic prosperity. As it stands, the hypocrisy of Bandt, DiCaprio, and other misguided environmental crusaders is a stark reminder of the dangers of elitism in activism. As they lecture the public on the need for environmental stewardship, their own extravagant lifestyles betray an incredulous disconnect from the everyday realities faced by timber communities, and a near complete disregard for their long-standing love and stewardship of the natural environs they are surrounded by. It’s time for them to practice what they preach and acknowledge the devastating consequences of their advocacy turned attack – on the lives of hardworking Australians.  

Uni Tas and WoodSolutions’ pilot course on timber design for residential construction

Fri, 22/03/2024 - 00:43
The University of Tasmania in collaboration with WoodSolutions has launched a pilot micro-credential course on Timber Design for Residential Construction. Source: Timberbiz The micro-credential is a structured to make upskilling and stacking credentialed education accessible to busy professionals and students. The course incorporates materials and knowledge from leading industry experts to enable students to learn through real-world case studies and models. Ideal for engineers, architects, building designers, and other professionals involved in construction planning and coordination, the micro-credential is delivered online with flexible options for self-paced learning and opportunities for networking with industry professionals. This collaboration between the University of Tasmania, WoodSolutions, and other industry experts provides access to all the latest knowledge and practices for a cutting-edge curriculum. It also provides up-to-date information on industry standards for students to complete the course with practical knowledge that can be applied on the job. Timber design in residential construction is an ever-growing field of work that aligns with core sustainability principles required across construction professions. Working in this field affords the opportunity to participate in rewarding careers that work toward a resilient and more sustainable future for residential construction in Australia. And students don’t have to stop there. Completion of the micro-credential opens pathways to further studies at the University of Tasmania, including credit options for engineering degrees. The micro-credential units are designed to accommodate the busy lives of professionals and to ease the financial strain of traditional education and upskilling. The micro-credential equips individuals with specialised skills and knowledge in timber design for residential construction to meet the demands of the sector. This certification can help address professional shortages in Australia by providing a pool of qualified individuals ready to contribute effectively and efficiently to projects. The micro-credential course is funded by the Australian Government Micro-credentials Pilot in Higher Education. This means zero fees for students. You can find more information and register your interest for the course at https://www.utas.edu.au/study/short-courses/micro-credentials/timber-design-for-residential-construction-micro-credential

OFO $8M redevelopment at Glencoe

Fri, 22/03/2024 - 00:41
Innovation and safety are the key drivers behind OneFortyOne’s $8 million nursery redevelopment, with a new state-of-the-art undercover handling system leading a number of major upgrades for the Glencoe facility. Source: Timberbiz The two automated handling lines, designed in Europe and installed on-site, will see millions of radiata pines trees sown, lifted and dispatched under controlled conditions annually, significantly increasing workforce conditions and safety. This month, as the industry marks International Day of Forests on 21 March 21, flags a milestone for the 3-year redevelopment project, as the new systems become operational. Nursery Manager Craig Torney said the new infrastructure investment will substantially increase efficiency and signals a major shift away from traditional intensive in-field growing. “The line has the ability to sow about 1-million trees per week, so it’s a lot cleaner and a lot more efficient,” Mr Torney said. “This work would normally be done on the back of a tractor in the elements. Now, from the time the container is introduced to the machine to the time that the finished product is pushed through the wall automatically out into the nursery, there is no human intervention, apart from overseers.” A new irrigation system is also part of the upgrades, improving efficiency at the establishment stage by decreasing water and chemical usage. In operation since 1983, the Glencoe nursery is central to OneFortyOne’s Australian operations, growing around 7.5 million trees annually for the company and other Green Triangle forest growers. Employee safety and wellbeing is at the heart of the changes, Craig said, with infrastructure upgrades set to protect the predominantly outdoor workforce from the elements. “It’s important to provide our team of people with a better work environment. The new infrastructure is entirely undercover and set to bench-top height, so workers will now enjoy a safer, more ergonomic workplace,” Mr Torney said. “We’ve had team members out here for 25-years plus, so the safety and long-time sustainability of the nursery’s workforce was a major factor in the decision to upgrade the facility.” OneFortyOne Chief Executive Officer Wendy Norris said the key components of the upgrade share a strong alignment with this year’s theme for International Day of Forests – ‘Forests and Innovation’. “Innovation is at the centre of the upgrades, as the work will ultimately result in a better and more efficient end product for forest growers and OneFortyOne’s customer base,” Ms Norris said. “By investing in long-term safety and efficiency measures at the nursery site, which is an essential supplier of trees across the Green Triangle forestry sector, OneFortyOne demonstrates our commitment to the future of the industry, our people who have been with us for a long time, and also, our local communities.”

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by Dr. Radut