Australian timber industry news

Valmet expanded its global social responsibility program with several area-specific local projects promoting science, nature and equal opportunities in 2022. After a year of successful implementation, the program now continues through six local projects. Source: Timberbiz Social responsibility program is part of Valmet’s sustainability agenda implementation. Some of the projects are selected by employee voting, increasing involvement and internal engagement. In 2024, the program continues with the following projects: In Asia Pacific, Valmet will initiate cooperation with Bumiterra, an organization in Indonesia dedicated to restoring the rainforest, protect biodiversity and empower local communities in Borneo. In 2023, Valmet collaborated with The Mirror Foundation in Thailand, successfully improving the living and learning conditions at three rural schools with more than 900 children. In the EMEA area, Valmet continues to support an orphanage in Jelenia Góra, Poland to enhance the orphanage children´s wellbeing and possibilities for education. This year’s donation will be used to renovate the orphanage’s sports field. In 2023, Valmet donated a vehicle to the orphanage to enable safe transportation to school, leisure time activities or specialist doctors. In South America, Valmet continues to support the Gerando Falcões network and its special program called Circuito Inclusão (Inclusion Circuit) in Brazil. It promotes inclusion of people with disabilities and their families through leisure activities and accessibility opportunities. In Chile, Valmet will initiate cooperation with a partner organization that supports the well-being and social inclusion of children with limited possibilities through education, sports and cultural activities. In China, Valmet continues to support industrial talent development and promote innovation and sustainable development in the pulp, paper and energy industry and grants scholarships to undergraduate students in three industry universities and to postgraduate students in five industry universities. In North America, Valmet continues to support Make-A-Wish that grants life-changing wishes for children diagnosed with critical illnesses. ”As a global company operating in over 40 countries, we have an impact on numerous communities around the world. Our global social responsibility program has been a remarkable journey so far, and all the projects have been successful in reaching their targets. We are eagerly looking forward to continuing the work with the familiar partners as well as expanding the cooperation to the new projects,” Reetta Loponen, Vice President, Sustainability, Valmet said.  

A report has called on ministers to scrap the huge subsidies and tax breaks given to conifer forests because they do too little to combat the climate crisis. The report from the Royal Society of Edinburgh said the tens of millions of pounds in subsidies given to the timber industry should instead be spent on longer-living native forests, which have greater and clearer climate and biodiversity benefits. Source: The Guardian It said the Scottish and UK governments are wrong to argue that public subsidies are needed to help plant more, larger conifer forests. These plantations are largely monocultures using a single species that have a relatively short lifespan. Instead, public subsidies should be diverted to planting millions of native broadleaf trees, including in urban areas, which capture and keep more CO, support more plant and animal species, store more carbon in the soil, and have a far longer lifespan. The RSE report found that: In Scotland, ministers have subsidised forestry by more than £390m over the last decade, with roughly 80% of that spent on commercial conifer plantations, as well as extra subsidies for haulage. Timber companies and landowners pay no corporation tax on their income from forests; profits from timber sales are tax-free; there is no capital gains tax on the value of the trees, and 100% inheritance tax relief on the forestry property. Forest owners were also able to sell carbon credits, adding to the attractiveness of forestry as an investment. These grants, tax breaks and carbon credits had helped to substantially drive-up land prices in Scotland, up by 73% in a single year, greatly distorting the land market and pricing people out. Government agencies are not properly enforcing policies which require environmental impact assessments on new forest projects; their approach is“inadequate” and “passive”. The RSE, Scotland’s national academy, said significant changes in government strategy were urgently needed at a time when governments are cutting public spending, including on nature recovery. “Our scarce public funds must be used to maximise benefits for both the public and our environment,” said Prof Pat Monaghan, regius professor of zoology at the University of Glasgow and one of the report’s authors. “We now face the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss. We must ensure that our investments in tree planting are done in ways that reduce our carbon emissions without reducing our precious and fragile biodiversity.” The RSE said it was very surprised the Treasury had no data on how much tax the exchequer had foregone due to these tax breaks, even though these policies had been criticised repeatedly in recent decades. While tax breaks for forestry are the same as those for farming, this support for forestry appeared to be based on the notion that having a domestic timber supply was of strategic importance at time of war – a policy that had been scrapped in the 1950s. The Department for Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs, which oversees policy and funding for England, set aside £222m between 2020 and 2024for woodland on private land. But 77% of English woodland is native broadleaf, compared with 29% in Scotland. “The role of trees – the right trees in the right place – in improving biodiversity, carbon-capture, andwellbeing in both urban and rural environments cannot be overstated,” Prof Ian Wall, who chaired the RSE’s inquiry, said. Scottish Forestry, the government agency, and Confor, the timber industry body, said there was clear evidence that conifers stored up to four times more carbon at a faster pace than slower-growing hardwood trees. The timber industry in Scotland supported 20,000 jobs and generated £800m for the economy. Scottish Forestry said it would study the report but added: “Public forestry grants are a vital means to stimulating woodland creation and we will continue to support funding for both conifer and broadleaf planting.” Confor said modern regulations already required conifer forests to be multipurpose, with a greater mix of species and more emphasis on eco-tourism. The World Bank had forecast the move to use timber instead of carbon-intensive concrete and steel in construction would require four times as much timber by 2050. “Government grants provide a contribution to the cost of establishing a new forest and compensate for the loss of income from the previous land use. Once established no other grants are provided,” Confor added. “We simply don’t recognise the RSE’s assertions that public policy is driving the planting of as many trees as possible rather than ‘the right tree in the right place’. This is not supported by an analysis of what is being planted or the public policies that sit behind tree planting.” A Treasury spokesperson confirmed forestry enjoyed tax relief and exemptions, but said: “We are committed to keeping the tax system simple by not introducing different tax-treatments for all the different types of tree in the UK.”

Pirelli is the first company to produce a complete range of FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified tyres for motorsport. Starting from this year, all the tyres used in the FIA Formula One World Championship will be marked with the FSC logo. Source: Timberbiz This logo certifies that all the natural rubber within the tyre complies with stringent environmental and social criteria required by the FSC, a world-leading non-governmental organisation for sustainable forestry. “The debut of our FSC-certified tyres in the world of motorsport represents a significant moment in Pirelli’s sustainability journey. In 2021 we were first to equip a road car with FSC-certified tyres, and now we are proud to be the first do so in motorsport as well,” Giovanni Tronchetti Provera, Pirelli Executive Vice President Motorsport, Sustainability and Future Mobility said. “Formula One is an extraordinary open-air laboratory for us. It allows us not only to design and test new technology as well as improve research and development processes for roadgoing tyres, but also to unite maximum performance, typical of the demanding motorsport environment, with commitment towards an increasingly sustainable world.” This certification, announced on 10 October last year when Pirelli renewed its agreement as the Global Tyre Partner of Formula 1 until at least 2027, will apply to all the tyres used on track, throughout the season, including pre-season testing. The FSC-certified tyres have been introduced following an intense development program that began in 2022, which showed clear results in terms of both reliability and performance. The first free practice sessions at the Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix hosted the debut of these certified tyres at a Grand Prix event. This marks a significant step, reflecting Pirelli’s commitment to delivering increasingly sustainable performance and solutions even within the special environment of motorsport, starting with its greatest technological and competitive expression, Formula One. Pirelli has been confirmed as one of the global leaders in the fight against climate change for the sixth consecutive year with a place in the 2023 Climate A list from the CDP (Carbon Disclosure Project), an international no-profit organisation that researches and promotes environmental information. Pirelli was also the first tyre manufacturer to be awarded a three-star rating on the FIA’s Environmental Accreditation Program. “Pirelli’s implementation of FSC-certified tyres in the FIA Formula One World Championship is a strong statement of the company’s commitment to sustainability not just to its own targets but also in its alignment with the goals of the FIA’s Environmental Strategy, which seeks to reduce motorsport impact and reinforce the sport as a catalyst for sustainable innovation and technology,” Sara Mariani, FIA Sustainability and D&I Director said. “Those ambitions were fundamental to the Formula One tyre supply tender launched last year by the FIA for 2025 and beyond and following its successful bid Pirelli has admirably already begun to innovate in pursuit of even greater sustainability with the introduction of FSC-certified tyres in 2024.” Together with the FIA and Formula One, the Italian firm has underlined its position in the front line of research and development into new technology, both on the technical and sporting side, to support the work that has already been done in reducing CO2 emissions throughout the entire life cycle of a Formula One tyre. FSC certification joins a number of initiatives already put in place for motorsport by Pirelli in recent years: all the tyres that Pirelli brings to the track during a Grand Prix weekend – used in F1, F2, F3 and F1 Academy – will be transformed into secondary raw materials after use, for multiple circular uses; the electrical energy used to make F1, F2, F3 and F1 Academy tyres comes exclusively from 100% renewable certified sources; the use of ‘virtual’ design technology for all tyres not only considerably reduces development time, but above all the number of physical prototypes needed, cutting down on materials used; the elimination of tyre warmers in Formula One for full wet covers, pioneered in Monaco last year, reduces the use of electrical energy; more streamlined logistics, with sea freight now the preferred method of transport over air freight, cuts down on logistics emissions. FSC certification of the natural rubber from certified plantations used by Pirelli to make tyres for the FIA Formula One World Championship is the latest step in the company’s long-running program to sustainably manage the natural rubber supply chain. This is achieved via a roadmap of best practice in the different countries of origin for natural rubber, in line with the principles and values set out in the Pirelli Sustainable Natural Rubber Policy from 2017. This document is the result of consultation with key stakeholders in the natural rubber value chain, including international NGOs, Pirelli’s main natural rubber suppliers, growers and sellers in the supply chain, automotive clients, and other global organisations.  

The New Zealand Forest Owners Association says the review of the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) fees is a relief for foresters facing excessive costs and loss of climate change action. Source: Timberbiz Announced by NZ Forestry Minister, Hon Todd McClay, the review will re-evaluate the capital costs of the scheme’s IT system and the administrative costs of the ETS. A second phase of the review will evaluate whether the NZ$30 per hectare annual fee structure that forestry participants pay is fair. New Zealand Forest Owners chief executive (NZFOA), Dr Elizabeth Heeg, says the announcement gives foresters confidence that their concerns are being taken seriously by the new Government. “The ETS fees imposed last year saw foresters collectively landed with more than NZ$30 million in overheads,” Dr Heeg says. “That equates to a 1600% increase on the previous ETS charges. “Those fees were excessive, disproportionate, and unreasonable for a sector already struggling to meet the costs of operating their businesses following years of uncertainty.” Forestry does not object to paying its share of the costs for administering the ETS, however, these costs should be shared proportionately across the system given the scheme has benefits for all of New Zealand. “Foresters were not adequately consulted with upon introduction of the fees. Some companies now face a yearly charge of over NZ$1m just to continue in business,” Dr Heeg says. “In no other case do small or medium businesses face such extreme government fees just to participate in a business model that is of public benefit. “For small foresters and farmers, that increase simply isn’t viable. The result is that many are being forced to exit the scheme.” At present, New Zealand’s forests, plantation, native or otherwise, are the only credible means of achieving the Climate Change Commission’s emissions targets. Dr Heeg says the imposition of the latest ETS fees is having the opposite effect of what’s needed for climate change action. “The excessive cost recovery fees for the system has knocked investors’ confidence in the ETS disincentivising businesses from entering the scheme. “Planting intentions have diminished to a level that will be insufficient to meet our climate change commitments in 2050 and beyond. “Halting these fees will be a crucial step for enabling forestry to fulfil its role as the primary offsetting mechanism for New Zealand.” Forest owners look forward to fair and adequate consultation with the Minister and his team to ensure future ETS fees are reasonable, efficient, and necessary. The independent review will commence in March, with a report expected by the end of April.

Two new research centres have been identified as the preferred candidates to receive funding under the Albanese Government funded Australian Forest and Wood Innovations (AFWI) program after a competitive expressions of interest process. Source: Timberbiz Last year, it was announced that the University of Tasmania (UTAS) would host AFWI, a national research institute committed to advancing research and innovation to support Australia’s vital forest and wood product industries, by drawing on the best researchers and facilities across Australia. The University of the Sunshine Coast and University of Melbourne will be invited to form AFWI research centres, joining a third research centre being established at the University of Tasmania (UTAS) in Launceston. Each research centre will have access to $24.5 million in funding as part of the more than $100 million AFWI grant agreement with UTAS. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt said that the three research centres in combination will provide good coverage of forest and wood products research. “The three research centres will help us to enhance our wood products and systems, manage and sustainably expand our Australian forestry resources, transform wood residues into renewable products and energy solutions – all while helping to address the threat of climate change.” Minister Watt said. “These research centres will help to transition the Australian forestry industry into a low emissions future. “Innovation is key to progress and efficiency and this funding will allow these centres to look at new ways to ensure our forestry industries keep sustainability at their core.” The University of Melbourne Research Centre will be based at the Burnley Campus in Richmond, Victoria and University of the Sunshine Coast’s Research Centre will be based at the Sunshine Coast Campus in Sippy Downs, Queensland.  

Fennell Forestry will receive a $200,000 cash injection from the state government to commence phase two of an electric log truck trial. Source: The Border Watch The funding for phase two of the Fennell Forestry project will examine how heavy vehicle decarbonisation can contribute towards a green circular economy. It will build on the outcomes of a phase one trial run from last year when Fennell Forestry tested the nation’s first electric heavy vehicle. A further $70,000 in funding will be handed to the South Australian Forest Products Association to develop a State of the Industry Report. The funding announcements followed the release of the South Australian Wood Fibre and Timber Industry Masterplan. The plan aims to provide a vision to further grow and develop the state’s $1.4 billion forest and timber industry with three main goals identified aiming to strengthen the industry, domestic manufacturing and infrastructure capability. These goals include the right resource and capability, a “future focused” workforce and a “clean and green” circular economy. It has been developed by the Forest Industries Advisory Council of South Australia in consultation with the Minister for Forestry Clare Scriven and will be reviewed annually. This will be done to keep pace with the socioeconomic and environmental changes influencing the industry including international trade, climate change and technological developments. Fennell Forestry Managing Director Wendy Fennell said the region had a great fibre resource in the Green Triangle region. “We are looking forward to working with the government on this,“ she said. “These are the steps we have to take to see how we can meet those targets and we are working out if it is operationally suitable.“ South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas said as the “birthplace” of Australian plantation forestry, the state’s industries had a “long and distinguished history” of nurturing a “forward thinking” and “innovative” mindset. “Today is an important day for the forestry industry for locals and the nation,“ Mr Malinauskas said. “This is an industry of the future and it is true Green Triangle Forestry is home to serious plantations and is an industry of tomorrow.“ He praised Ms Fennell and Fennell Forestry for their vision and risk-taking. “Decarbonising is an important endeavour and I recognise Fennel Forestry for their leadership,“ he said. “Wendy is a demonstration that risks can take off.“ Chair of the South Australian Forest Products Association Governing Council Tammy Auld said the Masterplan has been developed in consultation with stakeholders from the forest and timber industries through the revitalised Forest Industries Advisory Council with an aim to work towards a future where all fibre grown in the region will be locally processed. “South Australian Forest Products Association (SAFPA) are grateful to the state government, especially the Minister for Forest Industries, Clare Scriven, for listening and working in collaboration with the industry to deliver this Master Plan,“ she said. “We know that if we can process all the fibre grown in the region, we have the ability to create over 20,000 new jobs, ensuring that South Australia has sovereign fiber capacity at the same time as decarbonizing our economy. “With projects such as the Fennell Forestry electric log truck, the government isn’t just talking about change, but supporting transformation and innovation within the region. “Our industry certainly believes that the forest industries have a big role at the heart of the government’s ambition for re-industralisation, and we look forward to continuing our working relationship with the Minister, Premier and all members of Parliament to protect, enhance and innovate our beloved forest industries.” Ms Scriven said the forestry industries remained a “significant contributor” to the state’s economy with the master plan presenting the “vision to be a future focused circular economy” as well as “sustainably driving the state’s economic prosperity” with “globally recognised skills and innovation”. “I am delighted that government has worked side by side with a broad section of the forest industries to deliver this election commitment, and this plan will be of significant benefit to this vital industry,” Ms Scriven said. “Collaboration has been a key part in the development of this master plan and I look forward to the ongoing partnership with industry through FIAC-SA as the associated projects are implemented to ensure that all South Australians continue to benefit from the sustainable growth and future success of South Australia’s forest industries.” Other projects identified as priorities through the master plan are expected to be developed and implemented over the coming three years.

The Tasmanian Forest Products Association has accused the Liberal Party of using the timber industry as a political football. And the CFMEU says it is flabbergasted by the short-sighted approach of the Tasmanian Liberal party to jobs and communities reliant on the forestry industry. Source: Timberbiz “The Liberals have been government for a decade and could have solved our wood supply issue at any time. But instead, they have decided to make it an election issue,” TFPA Chief Executive Officer Nick Steel said. The CFMEU said that timber communities deserve an industry strategy developed with workers and employers but instead have been dished up a political election strategy which serves nobody but the Liberal Party, Bob Brown, and the Greens. The State Government yesterday said that if re-elected on 23 March it would unlock Tasmania’s native forestry “Wood Bank”, providing an up to 10% boost in the annual supply of high-quality sawlog to Tasmanian sawmillers. “The Liberals are the strongest supporters of Tasmania’s high-value native forestry industry, backing in Tasmanian sawmillers, contractors, and local jobs,” Premier Jeremy Rockliff said. “Under the devastating Labor-Greens Tasmanian Forestry Agreement signed in 2011, the area of production forest land in Tasmania was nearly halved and wood supply to local sawmillers was gutted. “Timber communities across the State were decimated and two out of every three jobs in the sector were sacrificed by Labor seeking to appease the Greens. “Following our election in 2014, we rescued 356,000 hectares of production native forest from being permanently locked up and set it aside in a “Wood Bank” – the Future Potential Production Forest – for a rainy day. “That rainy day has now arrived. “As a result of both the closure of native forest industries in Western Australia and Victoria under Labor Governments, as well as growing global demand for sustainably produced wood and fibre products, now is the right time to open this Wood Bank.” A re-elected majority Liberal Government would: Make available up to 40,000 hectares of the Future Potential Production Forest “Wood Bank” Make available an additional wood basket of up to 158,000 cubic metres of high-quality sawlog to Tasmanian industry – that’s an up to 10% increase annually and Make this new supply exclusively available to existing Tasmanian customers. “Importantly, by making this additional timber available exclusively to existing Tasmanian customers of Sustainable Timber Tasmania, this will ensure that Tasmania’s native forestry sawmillers have more of the timber they need,” Mr Rockliff said. Mr Steel said the TFPA and others in the industry have been working with the government on developing a policy for the management of the state’s Future Potential Production Forest (FPPF) land. “The TFPA has been talking to the government for a long time about active management of FPPF land, and what has been released (yesterday) is nothing like our plan,” Mr Steel said. “The TFPA believes in total land use management. Not all the FPPF land is suitable for production forestry. “The TFPA is calling for a full examination of the land, with input from a range of groups – including forestry, aboriginal bodies and environmental agencies. “We look forward to working with the next elected government on how we can grow forestry and actively manage this land,” Mr Steel said. Minister for Resources, Felix Ellis, said that Tasmania’s forest industry supported over 5,700 direct and indirect jobs, not just in harvesting but also across transport, associated support industries and sawmills around the State. “Sawlog from our native forests is of high value and used in products ranging from high-quality floorboards to feature walls to bespoke furniture,” Mr Ellis said. “It’s important to remember, more than 50%, or 3.43 million hectares, of Tasmania is in formal reserves, making Tasmania one of the most protected places on earth. This includes around 58% of the State’s native forests and over 85% of its old-growth forests. “Within 100 days of re-election, we will commence the process to unlock the Wood Bank as outlined in Section 7 of the Rebuilding the Forestry Industry Act 2014.” Mr Ellis said the Government had already identified 27 parcels of FPPF land totalling approximately 39,000 hectares of largely regrowth forest in the northeast and northwest, which was suitable for conversion back to production forest. “The parcels have been identified on the basis that the State’s comprehensive, adequate and representative (CAR) reserve system is not compromised, that there is no negative impact on STT’s current and future certification and that maximise carbon carrying capacity, fire protection and recreational opportunities,” he said. Additionally, areas of regrowth forests with previous forest management and roading activity had been prioritised. “We will work closely with industry to implement this process of unlocking the Wood Bank within the first 100 days of a re-elected majority Rockliff Liberal Government,” Mr Ellis said. “Once opened, the timber from this Wood Bank will be made available through Sustainable Timber Tasmania exclusively to existing Tasmanian-based customers. “This process will make available up to an additional 158,000 cubic metres of high-quality sawlog to Tasmanian sawmillers. It is expected that this will provide an up to 10% boost in annual supply to the industry. “Only a re-elected majority Rockliff Liberal Government has a 2030 Strong Plan to keep Tasmania’s native forest industry strong.” The CFMEU echoed the Tasmanian Forest Products Association’s disappointment with the Liberals for using the industry as a political football and backed the association’s alternative plan for active and adaptive management of ‘Future Potential Production Forest’. “The Liberals’ reckless approach risks the jobs of thousands of Tasmanian timber workers,” CFMEU Manufacturing National Secretary Mr Michael O’Connor said: “Timber workers, their families and communities will see this announcement for what it is: An irresponsible gambit which risks their livelihoods. “While the industry is advocating an approach which provides both resource and market security, the Liberals are trying to inflame tensions to paper over their disunity and 10 years of incompetence and mismanagement.” The State’s Shadow Resources Minister Shane Broad said that instead of giving the timber industry […]

Timberlink has officially opened its NeXTimber by Timberlink manufacturing facility and upgraded its green mill located in Tarpeena, South Australia. Timberlink CEO Paul O’Keefe said the company was well positioned to play its part in supporting the Australian government’s COP28 commitment to increase the use of timber in the built environment by 2030. Source: Timberbiz The launch event yesterday was attended by more than 300 people, including South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas, the Minister for Primary Industries, Regional Development and Forest Industries Clare Scriven, District Council of Grant Mayor Kylie Boston, District Council of Grant CEO Darryl Whicker, Member for Mackillop, Nick McBride and CEO of the South Australian Forest Products Association, Nathan Paine. “This unique facility in South Australia’s Limestone Coast presents tremendous opportunities for value adding, product diversification and market expansion for the state’s $1.4 billion forest industries as well as the ability to contribute to the construction of taller and more complex timber buildings,” Mr Malinauskas said. “I congratulate the Timberlink team, and everyone involved in delivering this project which will have significant flow on benefits for the Limestone Coast economy and that of the whole state. “The State Government is committed to a smart, sustainable and inclusive economic path for increase resilience and competitiveness for our forest industries and is why we were pleased to contribute $2 million of funding towards this new state of the art facility.” The newly commissioned NeXTimber facility is Australia’s only combined CLT and GLT (Cross Laminated and Glue Laminated Timber) radiata pine mass timber facility, and the first in Australia to be integrated with a structural timber manufacturing plant. The facility can produce CLT panels up to 16M long and 3.5M wide, and GLT beams up to 12M long. Mass timber products offer an exciting alternative to traditional construction materials and can help to reduce the embodied carbon of a project. These timber structures can be built up to 12 stories and even taller when combined with other materials in a hybrid timber construction. Timberlink’s $70M capital investment to build a mass timber production facility was announced in 2020, supported by a $2m grant awarded by the SA government under the Strategic Business Round 2020 of the Government of South Australia’s Regional Growth Fund. The NeXTimber brand was announced in 2021 with the tagline “It’s what better tomorrows are built on.” Ground was broken with the first sod turn in Tarpeena in 2022 and construction of the site continued until late 2023. The facility has been taking orders since November 2023, a testament to the hard work of many. The NeXTimber facility has created new jobs not only during the construction phase, but on an ongoing basis with over 30 new full-time positions. “South Australia’s forest industries have a long and proud history of sustainably growing and utilising our local resources to address the growing demands for timber, both domestically and internationally,” Ms Scriven said. “This new facility at Tarpeena continues that tradition of innovation, both by showcasing some of the world’s best new innovations and supporting greener, secure and modern employment opportunities, all critical ingredients towards ensuring Limestone Coast communities continue to thrive. “This initiative, which the State Government is proud to support, links in with other government commitments to the industry including a $15 million investment towards the establishment of the Forestry Centre of Excellence in Mount Gambier, the $2.346 million upgrade of the South East fire tower network including the installation of ground breaking artificial intelligence based bushfire detection and monitoring system and the $2 million contribution to assist the rollout of projects identified in the South Australian Wood Fibre and Timber Industry Master Plan,” she said. “It certainly is an exciting time for the Limestone Coast and South Australian Forest industries as a whole.” Timberlink’s NeXTimber facility development followed their 2019 announcement of a major timber manufacturing upgrade, with over $90M invested over the following 3 years, installing a new saw line, stacker and edger, contraflow kiln and batch kiln and drying building. This project created over 200 jobs in the construction phase. “This upgrade to the Tarpeena green mill is a testament to Timberlink’s commitment to innovation through timber manufacturing. By increasing the amount of timber that we can process here in the Limestone Coast region, we are directly supporting the local economy and jobs in the region,” Timberlink Chief Sales, Marketing & Corporate Affairs Officer David Oliver said. South Australian Forest Products Association CEO Nathan Paine said innovative technologies such as engineered wood products were a clear example of how timber was influencing the future of the construction industry whilst contributing to a net-zero economy. “South Australia’s forest products industries are already building the nation through growing and processing 35 per cent of the nation’s locally produced house framing timbers, 25 per cent of the nation’s particle board and now this new facility will deliver CLT and GLT products that offer a greener, more sustainable alternative to steel and concrete in mid and high-rise construction projects,” Mr Paine said. “Each year, the South Australian plantation estate sequesters 4.64 million tonnes of CO2e from the atmosphere, making timber the Ultimate Renewable. The CLT and GLT timber products that will be processed by NeXTimber will provide carbon negative mass timber products for use in mid and high-rise constrictions helping create a cleaner, greener future,” he said. “It is investments like this which generate economic, environmental and social opportunities for the South East, further empowering the forest and timber industries in South Australia.”  

Brendon and Rachel Clark are facing an unprecedented and unfair challenge, stemming from a confluence of unnecessary events that have left their lives in disarray. At the heart of their struggle is the abrupt downturn in the family seed collection business, a venture they dedicated years to building. First, there were the lawsuits from extremists, creating a legal quagmire that after a succession of legal battles by fringe anti-forestry groups against VicForests, meant that being shut out of going to work in the bush became the norm. Adding to the already challenging situation was a workplace accident that had a profound impact on Brendon Clark. The incident left him with a broken neck, broken ribs, and a brain injury. The physical toll on Brendon not only disrupted his ability to contribute to the business but also created a substantial layer of hardship in a time the Clark family business was already suffering. As if these challenges weren’t enough, the global pandemic, COVID-19, struck, further crippling the family seed collection business. Lockdowns, supply chain disruptions, and economic uncertainties created an environment where operating the business as usual became much harder. Then came the announcement, eight years early, that the timber industry (which funds the seed collection program for bushfire regeneration) was to be shut down. This was announced after the government had directed and persuaded Brendon, and other similar contractors, to invest all of his remaining savings and finances into the Transition Program and into 2030, with the promise of new avenues of work as a result of the investment. With the industry abruptly closing, interest in continuing the seed program disappeared as people clamoured to save their own jobs, which led to a drastic drop in the business’s ability to generate income from March 2023 onwards, pushing the Clarks to the brink of financial ruin. As a part of the Victorian Forestry Worker Support Program delivered by ForestWorks, Brendon Clark’s wife Rachel applied for a redundancy package, seeking a reasonable compensation reflective of her 17 years of service and the tumultuous circumstances that had befallen the family business. The amount she was seeking was in accordance with the Government guidelines for this package: an average weekly income of the best two years since 2018. However, the government’s response has been nothing short of disappointing. Instead of recognising the extraordinary challenges faced by the Clarks, the offered redundancy amount mirrors close to the lowest income level they experienced – a year marked by extreme adversity. According to Brendon, the lack of empathy shown by the State Labor Government has been staggering. “We don’t know how they’ve worked the redundancy amount out as there has been no consultation before the redundancy offer, we assume it is based on lower wages that were being taken as the industry was forced to grind to a halt by extreme activists and the Labor Government”. This situation highlights the systemic issues in the current support mechanisms for native timber sector businesses facing unprecedented challenges caused by a State Labor Government at the behest of anti-forestry extremists. Putting aside the of the lack of any justifiable reason to close the sustainable native hardwood industry in Victoria. the government’s failure to provide a fair and compassionate response leaves families like the Clarks in a precarious position, grappling with the aftermath of circumstances beyond their control alongside the very real possibility of having to sell the family home to pay bills that had the transition been handled in the correct way would never have had to happen. The plight of Brendon Clark and his wife underscores the need for a more nuanced and just approach to business support and employee compensation during times of crisis. It calls for a re-evaluation of policies to ensure that those who have dedicated their lives to building and sustaining businesses are not left to bear the brunt of unforeseen hardships without adequate assistance and understanding from the authorities. To put it plainly – it is the job of the Victorian Labor Government to fix the astounding mess it has made without further insulting and degrading the families, businesses and communities that they say they want to support.

At a time when environmental consciousness has become paramount, industries are continuously seeking innovative ways to minimize their ecological footprint. Timberlink, a leading player in the timber industry, has taken a bold step forward with NeXTimber, a revolutionary product that epitomizes sustainability and versatility. The NeXTimber by Timberlink facility in Tarpeena in the Green Triangle, officially opened yesterday by South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas, will manufacture cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glue-laminated timber (GLT) products, providing an Australian-made renewable and carbon-positive timber building solution for commercial, residential, and public projects. The project stands as a testament to Timberlink’s commitment to environmental stewardship. Made from responsibly sourced timber, this engineered wood product not only reduces reliance on traditional hardwoods but also mitigates deforestation. Timberlink’s stringent adherence to sustainable forestry practices ensures that NeXTimber is a renewable resource, contributing to the preservation of our planet’s invaluable ecosystems. Timberlink CEO Paul O’Keefe said the company was well positioned to play its part in supporting the Australian government’s COP28 commitment to increase the use of timber in the built environment by 2030. However, NeXTimber’s appeal transcends its eco-friendly attributes. Its innovative engineering imbues it with unparalleled strength, durability, and dimensional stability, surpassing that of conventional timber. Through a meticulous process of compression and bonding, Timberlink enhances the inherent properties of wood, resulting in a product that is resistant to warping, cracking, and decay. This superior performance makes NeXTimber suitable for a myriad of applications, ranging from structural framing to interior finishes. Moreover, NeXTimber’s versatility knows no bounds. Its customizable nature allows for a myriad of design possibilities, catering to the unique requirements of architects, designers, and builders. Whether it’s crafting intricate furniture pieces or constructing sustainable buildings, NeXTimber offers limitless potential for creativity and innovation. Beyond its practical benefits, NeXTimber fosters a sense of aesthetic elegance. With its natural warmth and timeless beauty, it evokes a sense of connection to nature, creating inviting spaces that inspire and rejuvenate. Furthermore, NeXTimber’s uniform appearance and consistent quality ensure a cohesive aesthetic, elevating the visual appeal of any project. Timberlink’s unwavering dedication to quality is reflected in every aspect of NeXTimber’s production. Rigorous testing and quality control measures guarantee that each piece meets the highest standards of performance and reliability. As a result, builders and designers can trust NeXTimber to deliver exceptional results, time and time again. In essence, NeXTimber by Timberlink represents a paradigm shift in the timber industry. By marrying sustainability with innovation, Timberlink has not only redefined the possibilities of engineered wood products but has also set a new standard for environmental responsibility. As the demand for sustainable building materials continues to grow, NeXTimber stands poised to lead the way, paving the path towards a greener, more sustainable future.

SEPPI’s range of forestry mulchers for tractors and PTO tractors has been expanded to include a new forestry mulcher. SEPPI M mulchers already cover the maximum power for tractors in the highest power class. This time, the focus is on compact tractors with the aim of offering an efficient maintenance tool for the most complex green spaces. Source: Timberbiz The MICROFORST pto with mechanical power take-off is the perfect addition to the range of accessories for 30 to 60 HP tractors. Thanks to its lightweight, this forestry mulcher is ideal for two-axle mowers such as AEBI TT or similar. The MICROFORST pto mulches brush and woody plants up to 13 cm in diameter. This mulcher is designed for PTO tractors that need a reliable mulcher for intense forestry works. The MICROFORST pto is designed for small tractors or public works vehicles up to 60 HP, and being a lightweight machine, also offers stability when working on slopes. The maximum recommended weight of the tractor is two tons. The technical characteristics of the MICROFORST pto are similar to those of larger forestry mulchers, but the mulcher weighs less than 600 kg. Thanks to its AR400 steel build, its resistance to wear and long service life are guaranteed despite its low weight. The standard Cut Control rotor with Mini Duo hammers with two tungsten carbide inserts combines high performance with a long service life and guarantees minimal and simple maintenance. The same type of hammers are used on all SEPPI forestry mulchers, even in the highest performance class. The Cut Control rotors are latest generation, with SEPPI Mini Duo tools and a new-concept depth limiter. Similar to a depth gauge on a chainsaw, the limiter controls the cutting depth and helps prevent the rotor from “choking”, thus guaranteeing an easy and quality milling process. A rotor with Mini Blade tools can be selected as an option. This makes the MICROFORST pto mulcher particularly efficient on trees that have not yet been felled, ensuring a quick and clean cut of the wood thanks to the particularly sharp Mini Blade tools. This dynamic forestry mulcher can be used by gardeners and landscapers for seasonal cleaning, in public and urban areas to clear bushes, and by farmers for land clearing.

German sports brand Adidas has partnered with non-profit environmental organisation Canopy to ensure its textiles, paper and paper packaging are free of fibre sourced from climate-critical forests. Source: Timberbiz Adidas has committed to Canopy’s CanopyStyle and Pack4Good initiatives and it is hoped the commitment will also help the brand to move to low-carbon and circular Next Gen alternatives for its textiles, paper and paper packaging products. The initiatives are said to be dedicated to eliminating the use of fibre sourced from climate-critical forests in textiles, paper, and paper packaging while promoting the adoption of low-carbon and circular alternatives. “Joining with Canopy marks an important stride for Adidas in our evolving journey towards sustainability. Adidas is committed to continued high-quality performance of our products whilst delivering meaningful and lasting ecological change for the planet. Being part of the CanopyStyle and Pack4Good initiatives is the next step for us on that journey,” Adidas senior director of sustainability Viviane Gut said. In addition to committing to sustainable sourcing practices, Adidas is also exploring solutions to reduce waste and reliance on virgin forest fibre. This includes using discarded clothing for viscose production and agricultural residues for paper packaging, thereby repurposing waste materials while reducing the pressure on vital forests. Adidas aims to increase the use of recycled materials in its paper packaging and prioritise sourcing from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified forests when virgin forest fibre is necessary. Canopy describes forests as playing a crucial role in maintaining a habitable planet and combating climate change. However, it notes the textile and paper industries contribute significantly to deforestation, with more than 3.4bn trees being cut down annually for fabric production and packaging materials.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the forest products industry, and Vanessa Simard, supervisor, Production Planning and Optimization, for Resolute’s Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean (Quebec, Canada) operations is playing a key role in the shift. Source: Timberbiz Through academic research, Ms Simard analyzed how this rapidly evolving technology can help manufacturing facilities run more efficiently. She has been putting her skills to use at Resolute for more than ten years, collaborating with her colleagues to continuously improve productivity. The last few years have been pretty busy. Her work was published in multiple academic journals such as the International Journal of Production Research and the Journal of Data and Information Quality. She completed a PhD degree in Industrial Engineering at Université Laval in 2023. Her thesis, investigating technology’s potential to reduce the impact of uncertainty in the forestry supply chain through improved methods of data analysis, earned the 9th David Martell Student Paper Prize from the Canadian Operational Research Society. She has also taught a course in advanced operational research and even presented her research at an event hosted by the Canadian chapter of Women in AI, an organization dedicated to increasing female participation in AI. Beginning in 2013 with a research internship for her bachelor’s degree, Ms Simard spent time at several Resolute operations in Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, acquiring a wealth of knowledge about forest products operations and process planning. She implemented a number of improvements, including a program to save time for mechanics filling out their reports. And while pursuing her master’s degree between 2015 and 2017 and continuing her career with Resolute, Ms Simard was instrumental in developing a major AI-based innovative solution that dramatically reduced the time required to plan the lumber drying process. The system was selected as a finalist for an Innovation Award from the Association pour le développement de la recherche et de l’innovation du Québec (ADRIQ). “Getting that ‘oh, wow!’ reaction from a colleague is a good feeling,” Ms Simard said. “I observe how a task is done, collect data and analyze it from various angles. Then I come back and shake things up with new tools and processes. When a task that used to take two hours can now be done in two minutes, that’s rewarding.”

Stakeholders globally are invited to provide feedback on the new PEFC RED II standards, developed to enable organisations to demonstrate compliance with RED II requirements and make RED II compliant declarations. Source: Timberbiz RED II, the European Union’s (EU) Renewable Energy Directive, establishes sustainability requirements for forestry feedstocks and greenhouse gas criteria for biomass fuels that companies in the renewable energy sector across the EU must comply with to be eligible for financial support by public authorities. PEFC is currently in the process to be recognised by the European Commission as one of the voluntary schemes that organisations can use to make their RED II compliant declarations. The recognition scope covers forest ligno-cellulosic material, including residues and waste, and biomass fuels made of this material. For this purpose, PEFC has developed the PEFC 5000 series of standards: PEFC ST 5002 will enable organisations sourcing ligno-cellulosic material to use the PEFC certification scheme to demonstrate compliance with RED II. It is based on the PEFC Chain of Custody standard to make it easier for organisations to integrate the RED II requirements within their chain of custody processes and audits. Prospective PEFC RED II certified organisations will need to already hold a PEFC chain of custody certificate (or achieve it at the same time as their RED II certification). PEFC ST 5003 covers the requirements for certification bodies providing audits against ST 5002. It will enable PEFC chain of custody notified certification bodies to extend their notification to operate PEFC RED II certification. PEFC RED II audits will follow the ST 2003 requirements, with additional elements such as requirements for the auditing of residues, wastes, and GHG emissions. ST 5003 also includes additional accreditation requirements. PEFC ST 5004 sets up the requirements for country or regional risk assessments against the RED II sustainability criteria conducted by an independent and competent in country-expert stakeholder or stakeholders, and the recognition of those risk assessments by PEFC. To receive the link to the draft standards go to https://podio.com/webforms/29406454/2413693 For more information contact PEFC at technical@pefc.org Deadline for comments is 20 April 2024.

New Zealand’s Government would be imposing a big obligation on future generations if it relied heavily on pine forests to meet the country’s 2050 “net zero” carbon goal, MPs have been told. Source: The Post Climate Change Commission chairperson Rod Carr told Parliament’s Environment select committee “we think trees are great”. But he said the commission was concerned about what might happen after 2050 if the country had achieved “net zero” by planting a large number of pine trees that might be unsustainable. “If they are a mono-age, mono-culture of planting, particularly on erosion-prone land, maintaining that forest cover in the face of disease, age, storm, fire is going to be an increasing obligation on future generations.” Up to two million hectares of farmland could be converted to pine forests under existing incentives, which placed no cap on the use of forestry to achieve net emissions targets, he said. “We recommend that the Government decide what is the acceptable level of gross emissions reduction and, by implication, what is the acceptable level of pine plantation offsets to achieve our existing targets.” People often forgot the 2050 commitment was to be “net zero” in every subsequent calendar year, Mr Carr told the committee. That meant that if the country relied too heavily on planting pine trees to achieve that, it would need to commit more and more land to forestry to offset emissions in the latter half of the century, he told the committee. “In the near term, an increase in the forest estate is helpful in putting us on our pathway to net zero, but it’s really risky if it is locked in as the way to keep it net zero.” The Climate Change Commission is due to provide Climate Change Minister Simon Watts with advice on the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) on Thursday, including on the floor price for issuing carbon credits and the trigger price for releasing extra credits. That advice would be made public on 14 March, he said. “The commission believes the ETS can play a significant part in helping New Zealand lower its emissions, but also believes that in its current state, it will fail to do so,” Mr Carr said. That was partly because there was a significant “overhang” in the market of previously- issued emissions rights that it was hard to unpack, he said. The number of “banked” carbon credits that emitters were sitting on and a reliance on using forestry to offset emissions would risk New Zealand using older technologies to produce “not ‘green’ premium products but dirty discounted products”, he said. Act Party climate change spokesperson Simon Court voiced concern during the committee hearing over the use of child labour in the third world to produce the materials for EV car batteries, questioning “how far should we really cast the net when we’re thinking about what’s important to New Zealand?” Mr Carr said it was great there was a live social conscience about child labour, but there was “an element of selective bias sometimes what we choose to inquire about”. Out of the estimated 6 million child labourers on the planet, about 25,000 were involved in mining cobalt in Congo,” he said, saying also that half of the world’s lithium came from western Australia. “So, we should all be mindful of where we get our pyjamas and our shoes from as well as where we get our technology from.” There were parts of the world where uranium was mined and oil extracted in communities that had been “unable to get the advantage but suffered the consequences of those extractive technologies,” Mr Carr said. “We should be alive to that, but it is not a reason not to embrace low emission technologies because the people who will suffer most in a changing climate are those vulnerable communities”. Mr Carr suggested “carbon border adjustments” on certain imports appeared a reasonable way to address a separate concern that any strict emissions policies could result in manufacturers shifting production to countries with fewer protections. The European Union was evaluating and in some cases putting in place such levies, which were an alternative to New Zealand’s current practice of issuing “free” carbon credits to some firms in heavy industries that faced overseas competition, he said.  

The Stirling Group is putting together a tour for Australian and New Zealand furniture makers showcasing the manufacturing strengths of Italy’s three industry leading woodworking machinery factories. Source: Timberbiz Scheduled from 13-21 April 2024 the tour will culminate with the world leading furniture exhibition Salone del Mobile. Starting in Florence The Stirling Group will work in conjunction with the leading 5 to 11 axis CNC producer Bacci, to start the tour. Bacci has opened its state-of-the-art factory and will have the entire range of CNC machinery operating to demonstrate how efficiency, capabilities and technology provide the solutions to modern manufacturing solutions. The tour then moves to Schio, home of the Costa Levigatrici to witness the 2024 design and innovation of wide belt sanding and how the experience can improve your furniture manufacturing process. The tour finishes at ItalPresse headquarters in Bagnatica, the largest press manufacturer in the world and they will present their range of hydraulic presses and complete lines that cover craftwork bespoke furniture makers to large industrial applications. The highlight of the trip is the visit to the renowned Salone del Mobile, the international furniture show held in Milan. Participants will be immersed in a world of design, gaining inspiration from the latest trends and innovations in the furniture industry. It’s an opportunity to network with industry professionals and forge valuable connections. The Italy tour delves deep into optimizing manufacturing processes and streamlining operations. Each meticulously planned factory visit is designed to immerse participants in the capabilities of cutting-edge woodworking machinery, offering insights into their transformative potential for the furniture industry. For more information visit: https://stirlingmachinery.com.au/masters-of-timber/  

Certification plays a pivotal role in fostering environmentally conscious supply chains, and over the past week, Responsible Wood Sustainability Manager, Matt de Jongh, engaged in insightful discussions with certificate holders, Austpaper and DIY Resolutions and Australian Brushware Corporation in Melbourne. Source: Timberbiz These discussions highlighted the significance of responsible practices in promoting sustainable wood sourcing. Robert Lane, General Manager at Austpaper, emphasised their commitment to environmental responsibility. “We prioritise eco-friendly practices and responsible sourcing to minimise our environmental impact,” he said. “The Responsible Wood certification aligns with our vision for a more sustainable and responsible future.” Luke Cerra, Group Manager Procurement at DIY Resolutions and Australian Brushware Corporation, echoed this sentiment. “Our dedication to ethical and green initiatives is a cornerstone of our operations,” Mr Cerra said. “It’s not just about certifications; it’s about making a positive impact on the environment and ensuring a legacy of sustainability.” Certification through Responsible Wood provides a credible framework for companies devoted to eco-friendly operations. Austpaper and DIY Resolutions and Australian Brushware Corporation serve as exemplary models of this dedication, contributing significantly to a greener future. Mr de Jongh expressed his optimism about these engagements. “It’s heartening to see organisations like Austpaper and DIY Resolutions and Australian Brushware Corporation prioritising responsible wood sourcing,” he said. “Their commitment not only aligns with environmental goals but also enhances brand credibility and consumer trust.” As we navigate an evolving market, sustainability transcends being a mere trend; it’s a responsibility. By supporting certified entities like Austpaper and DIY Resolutions and Australian Brushware Corporation, we collectively drive positive change and safeguard our planet. The dedication of these organisations serves as a beacon, inspiring others to champion certification as catalysts for sustainable practices. The collaboration between Responsible Wood and its certificate holders underscores the crucial role of certification in promoting environmental responsibility. Austpaper and DIY Resolutions and Australian Brushware Corporation showcase that by prioritising responsible wood sourcing and embracing eco-friendly practices, businesses can contribute to a harmonious balance between industry growth and environmental stewardship. Let’s continue to champion these efforts and work towards a future where sustainability is not just a choice but a fundamental responsibility.

In a bid to foster sustainable plantation expansion and address barriers in the Murray Region Forestry Hub, the recently completed Plantation Land Suitability Analysis (MURR-2022-014) provides crucial insights for government consideration. Source: Timberbiz The Plantation Land Suitability Analysis was completed as part of a suite of reports that forms an understanding of the available and suitable land for the purpose of plantation establishment. The report aims to assist the reader and decision makers to analyse the barriers to plantation expansion in the Murray Region Forestry Hub area. This report utilizes data from the Climate Forecast Model project that was completed in 2021. The report considers the following focal groups, as determined as significant by industry for the purpose of growing Radiata Pine, to determine the feasibility or suitability of land for plantation expansion: Biophysical parameters for suitable plantation growth Physical constraints that restrict plantation location Permit zones and other considerations Land value. Read MRFH Advice to Government here. Read full report here.

The Tasmanian Forest Products Association wants all candidates in the upcoming March 23 State election to support the state’s forestry sector being included in next year’s fire control plan. Source: Timberbiz Speaking at the launch of the second of its four key priorities for this election – Climate Change and the Fire Threat – TFPA Chief Executive Officer Nick Steel said forestry has a key role to play in keeping Tasmanians safe. “It still too early to be sure, but we’re hoping we may have dodged a bullet in the 2024 fire season,” Mr Steel said. “But moving forward it’s key that our private estate owners are included in the Tasmanian fire preparation. “Our private estate owners control over 400,000 hectares of Tasmania’s forest estate. As such important landholders it’s vital that they are given the same technology and support that the public estate receives. “Our estate owners need to be included in the fire coordination network, as well as being included in the TasGRN network rollout, which provides up-to-date communication technology to those on the fire ground.” As well as asking to be included in the fire planning going forward, the TFPA would like all candidates to recognise the important role that forestry has to play in meeting our climate change obligations. “The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has already recognised that a well-managed production forest is the best way to sequester carbon,” Mr Steel said. “That’s why we’re asking the new government to charge the State’s Climate Change Office to audit the State’s forests to better understand the benefits of the estate, and report of any threats or opportunities to leverage responsible forestry to further harnessed forestry’s carbon sequestration opportunities.”

Key Tasmanian Forest industry figures are pushing a radical proposal to allow logging of some of the state’s contentious forests in return for most being protected under Indigenous custodianship. Source: The Australian The concept discussed last month in behind-the-scenes talks involving industry, conservation and Aboriginal figures would see all but 50,000ha of 356,000ha of the most contested forests passed to Indigenous control. In return, the remaining 50,000ha would be made available for harvesting by a logging industry concerned it is running out of suitable native timber. The concept was discussed at the Mona Forest Economics Congress in November and again at a more intimate gathering at Marion Bay, southeast of Hobart, on 11 January. It remains highly contentious, with some conservationists staunchly opposed and accusing industry of “blackwashing” and seeking to “wedge” them against the Indigenous community. The 356,000ha of forests, including parts of takayna/Tarkine, Bruny Island and Blue Tier, were protected under the 2012 forest “peace deal” but later earmarked by government for “potential future” logging. Industry representatives involved in the discussions included Shawn Britton, acting chair of the Tasmanian Forest Products Association, and the organisation’s chief executive, Nick Steel. Mr Britton said while the association did not yet have a position on the concept, he believed it had some support and should be further developed. “It was an idea that had some reasonable interest and support and was an idea worthy of taking further,” he said. “I’m sure it will be discussed again. Resource security is always an issue. The industry will advocate and back a government that’s going to give the ­industry and its people secure resource outcomes.” Another industry participant, former Forestry Tasmania managing director Bob Gordon, said the concept was “worth exploring”. Mr Gordon, who has close ties with the ALP, said he had since had “general” discussions with some Labor figures about the idea. Having been involved in Indigenous timber projects in East Arnhem Land, he believed it could address a shortage of specialty timbers, while involving Aboriginal people in land management. Aboriginal elder Jimmy Everett, one of three Indigenous figures involved in the talks, said he opposed any logging of old growth but land handbacks would be supported. “We’ve never knocked back any land for return to the ­Aboriginal community, that’s for sure,” Mr Everett said. Most conservationists remain opposed to any logging inside the 356,000ha, known as Future Potential Production Forest, or FPPF. “I am absolutely horrified – this is an attempt to make it look like we can hand back Aboriginal ownership of forests but that there has to be a compromise with that,” said Jenny Weber, Bob Brown Foundation campaign manager. “No way is that OK. There shouldn’t have been any talk of logging the FPPF. Those forests are all high conservation value and should have been protected.” The foundation supported Aboriginal ownership without logging trade-offs. “This is definitely a very worrying move by the industry,” Ms Weber said. “It’s a wedge.” The future of the 356,000ha is set to be a state election issue, with Resources Minister Felix Ellis not ruling any option in or out. “We continue to work closely with industry as to if or when it might be necessary to make some of these forests available to Tasmanian sawmills,” Mr Ellis said. Labor resources spokesman Shane Broad said it was “not proposing any changes” to the forests’ status. Greens leader Rosalie Woodruff said her party “fully supported” Aboriginal land returns but that all 356,000ha should, as intended in 2012, be protected as national park.