The STIHL MS 500i chainsaw is perfect for forestry work, offering high performance and ease of use for efficient wood processing. Its lightweight design and dynamic swivel behaviour make it highly manoeuvrable for felling, cutting, and pruning. As the world’s first chainsaw with electronically controlled injection, it ensures optimum engine performance and rapid acceleration. With the best power-to-weight ratio on the market and premium features like STIHL ElastoStart and an HD2 air filter, this chainsaw is a top choice.
Specialists
June and July can be stressful for a few reasons.
It’s tax time. I don’t know how all of you cope, especially those with employees, but I struggle every year.
The bad old days of showing up at the accountant with a shoebox full of receipts and some scrawled notes on odds bits of paper are long gone I’m glad to say, but I still find it difficult.
Fortunately there’s a great deal can be done online and digitally. For a time before I joined the elite-and-cushioned word of salaried staff, I used to have an app that would allow me to photograph receipts with my phone and they would automatically be sent to the accountant and stored in the right file.
This service cost me, of course, but the accountant – whom I haven’t seen face-to-face for some years now – would always gleefully remind me his fee was tax deductible and I should consider it an investment.
I still haven’t quite grasped how, or if, I came out in front.
For those running businesses with employees and contractors, it must be a real stress point that’s far from compensated for by a few drinks at a Christmas-in-July function.
But that’s the way things are.
Another big cause of stress around the middle of the year are the conditions outdoors.
The cold in the southern half of The Sunburnt Country means those who earn their living in the outdoors face some serious challenges. For those further north – especially over the past few years – rain makes some work too dangerous to attempt, and even jobs which might be safely achievable are often plain impossible to access.
There’s been plenty of rain in the southern half of the country as well these past few years, and it just makes the middle of the year more difficult.
Arborists, especially climbers, can find winter’s climatic conditions a serious challenge and a very real threat to safety.
In what’s probably a strange observation, there’s a correlation between tax-time stress and winter outdoor work: both situations should be left to professionals. Arbor work should only be taken on by experienced – or properly supervised – qualified arboriculturalists. A ‘mate with a chainsaw’ shouldn’t be allowed anywhere near tree work.
You’d probably risk less damage if you asked him to drop his chainsaw and do your tax return.
Tom Foster Editor
The Australian Arbor Age is published bimonthly by Prime Creative Media Pty Ltd.
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Editor
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tom.foster@primecreative.com.au
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arianna.lucini@primecreative.com.au
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Copyright
The Australian Arbor Age magazine is owned by Prime Creative Media and published by John Murphy. All material in The Australian Arbor Age magazine is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic or mechanical, including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher. The editor welcomes contributions but reserves the right to accept or reject any material. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, Prime Creative Media will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions, or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published.
The opinions expressed in The Australian Arbor Age magazine are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by, the publisher unless otherwise stated.
All articles submitted for publication become the property of the publisher. The editor reserves the right to adjust any article to conform with the magazine format.
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Contributors
Cassian Humphreys
Cassian is an exMerristwoodian (NCH-arb 1991, bridged into the UK Diploma ’92), Qualified to the AQF L5 (AUS Dip) in ’09, upgraded in currency in 2017. He commenced his career after graduating in Horticulture (’85), transitioning into Arb (’89). Experienced in all aspects of arboriculture, having worked in Germany, Australia, Britain, PNG and Vanuatu, Cassian has been writing for AAA since 1999, with over 40 articles to his name. His core specialisation involves conservation arboriculture, education and tree-health-care.
Thanks to fuel-injection and a new engine layout on the Husqvarna
of
Image: Husqvarna
a
Jim McArdle
B.Ed. Sc (Sydney), Dip. Arb. (Ryde), VTRA@QTRA qualifications. Director at McArdle Arboricultural Consultancy and TCAA President, Jim’s career spans across almost 40 years and focuses on consulting and reporting in tree risk protection and management plans, and tree impact assessments.
Dave Crispin
A professional consulting arborist at Treeswest Australia, certified to AQF level 5 (Diploma), international coach, speaker and presenter.
The Strangler Fig at Ta Prohm
The empire hasn’t struck back.
O riginally called Rajavihara –roughly translating to ‘The Royal Monastery’ – the temple at Cambodia’s Ta Prohm was a Buddhist place of worship and learning built in 1186. It was considered one of the great achievements of the Khmer empire –along with centuries of prosperous reign over the south-east Asian region.
The empire faded and the temple was abandoned for around 500 years, and during that time strangler figs and cotton trees, for whom centuries are just a turn of history’s page, overtook the site and began reclaiming the structures.
This particular Ficus gibbosa has become a beacon for photographers
and tourists from around the world, and the site has been carefully preserved and made accessible.
A great deal of the Khmer history was recorded as bas reliefs – stone carvings. Sometimes royalty would continue the story on a fresh veneer of stone.
We wonder if somewhere there’s a princess layer.
This Ficus gibbosa has become a beacon for photographers and tourists. Image: H-AB Photography/stock.adobe.com
TRACTION DRIVE
Working
Socage ute-mounted EWP
The Socage forSte 14A EWP lift for utes and small trucks is a versatile articulated platform optimised with a 4x4 option.
T
he forSte 14A Speed has established itself as a leading model in Europe, becoming the top-selling 4×4 aerial platform in the region. Altequip is proud to now be bringing the versatile EWP combo to the Australian market, complete with Altequip’s renowned full-service backup.
Socage forSte 14A
The forSte 14A model offers a working height of 13.50m and a horizontal reach of 7.10m, along with a robust load
a horizontal
with a
load
The forSte 14A model offers a working height of 13.50m and
reach of 7.10m, along
robust
capacity of 230kg. Images: Altequip
Elevating work platforms
“ ”
Compatible with 4×4 Ford Ranger commercial vehicles with 3750 GVM
particularly in sectors like arbor, energy and telecommunications.
It’s compatible with 4×4 Ford Ranger commercial vehicles with 3750 GVM. Moreover, it offers numerous lighting, equipment, and safety options to meet the specific needs of each sector, from rental without an operator to maintenance, construction, and industry work.
Questions answered
For those with questions about this dynamic EWP, the Altequip team is ready and keen to answer. Log on to altequip. au, call 1300 762 243, or book a demo at the Brisbane headquarters today.
The forSte 14A Speed delivers smooth and precise movements.
The platform allows for two operators and additional material.
expands
aerial platforms, CMC has consolidated its international presence and will bring innovative lifting solutions to the
n Munich, during the constructionmachinery and mining trade fair in Bauma, Germany, CMC, a leading company in the production of aerial platforms, enthusiastically announced its official entry into the French market. The move will consolidate CMC’s international presence, thanks to a strategic partnership with AXEO All Road, the new division specialising in work-at-height solutions from the highly respected company, Klaas All Road.
The collaboration marks an important step for CMC, which aims to further strengthen its position in Europe by offering French professionals innovative, high-performance solutions for working
Alessandro Mastrogiacomo, Sales & Marketing Manager of CMC, said: “We are excited about this new partnership with AXEO All Road, a partner that shares our values of quality, innovation and customer focus. This agreement is a fundamental step in our international growth. France is a strategic market for our sector and, thanks to this collaboration, we will be able to offer reliable and cutting-edge solutions for working at height, strengthening our
Elevating work platforms
Founded in Nanteuil-le-Haudouin, near Paris, KLAAS All Road is a wellestablished company in the lifting-and-
With the aim of expanding its offering and meeting the specific needs of the market, KLAAS All Road has launched a new division, called AXEO All Road,
dedicated to work-at-height solutions.
The new branch benefits from the company’s extensive commercial and technical network, with eight branches across France. It also draws on the expertise of the prestigious Deumin Group, a leading player in the lifting and public-works sectors in France.
‘Welcoming CMC as a partner is a great opportunity to expand our offer and respond to the ever-changing needs of the French market,” said Henri Lemoine, CEO of KLAAS All Road. “CMC aerial platforms stand out for their cutting-edge technology and safety, values that perfectly integrate with our corporate vision.
“We are certain that this collaboration will bring concrete advantages to our customers and will contribute to strengthening our role as a leader in the sector.”
Throughout France
Thanks to the partnership with AXEO All Road, CMC products will be accessible throughout France, guaranteeing timely assistance and high-quality pre- and post-sales services. CMC aerial platforms will be distributed through the All Road branch network, which includes offices in Nanteuil le Haudouin, Clermont-Ferrand, Le Mans, Joinville, Agen, Chambéry, Strasbourg and Salonde-Provence for a widespread service throughout the territory.
Objectives
The collaboration between CMC and AXEO All Road aims to:
• Expand CMC’s presence in France, one of the strategic markets for the lifting sector
• Offer integrated solutions, including sales, rental, after-sales service, specific training, and personalised financing, and
• Provide excellent technical and
commercial support to French customers, thanks to All Road’s consolidated experience in the sector.
A promising future
CMC’s penetration of the French market through this partnership represents a crucial phase in the company’s ongoing internationalisation process.
Sales manager Mayeul Brasset and technical director Cédric Magnien will guide the brand implementation strategy, ensuring CMC becomes synonymous with quality, innovation and reliability for lifting professionals in France.
Why choose CMC in France?
The choice of AXEO All Road as a distribution partner for CMC aerial platforms in France is based on various strategic factors:
• AXEO All Road offers coverage throughout France, guaranteeing immediate access to CMC products and related support services
• AXEO All Road’s in-depth knowledge of the French market allows it to adapt CMC’s offer to specific local needs, and
• AXEO All Road’s membership of the Deumin Group offers additional resources and opportunities for growth in the lifting market in France.
An important step
By entering the French market, CMC continues to consolidate its international expansion. The partnership with AXEO All Road represents a unique opportunity to bring high-quality lifting solutions to France, supported by a highly qualified service network. Thanks to this alliance, CMC is ready to write a new chapter in its success story, offering cutting-edge products that stand out for their reliability, innovation, and high performance.
From left: Mayeul Brasset (AXEO All Road), Carlo Mastrogiacomo (CMC), Henri Lemoine (AXEO All Road), Alessandro Mastrogiacomo (CMC), Federico Tomba (CMC) Image: CMC s.r.l
ARK Arborists level up with the Först XR8D wood chipper
Tight access and steep gradients are all in a day’s work for the team at ARK Arborists. But the addition of the Först XR8D tracked wood chipper has completely transformed how the crew handles challenging sites.
F ounded by Matt Staples, ARK Arborists is a specialist tree-care company servicing Melbourne’s eastern suburbs and the Dandenong Ranges. The team delivers expert tree removal, pruning, storm-damage response, and vegetation management across residential, commercial and rural properties.
Operating in terrain where other contractors hesitate, ARK Arborists is known for getting the job done safely and efficiently – even when space is tight or slopes are extreme.
“We do a lot of jobs others don’t want to touch,” said Matt. “That’s why having the right gear – like the XR8D – makes all the difference.”
Images: Monitor
Built for access, designed for arborists
“We’ve had the Först for about six months and honestly, it’s a gamechanger,” said Matt. “It goes where no other chipper we’ve used could ever get to.”
The Först XR8D’s compact tracked design is built for sites with limited access – from sloped backyards to soft ground or steep embankments. Instead of relying on boards, winches or manpower to position a chipper, the XR8D simply tracks in and gets to work.
“It eliminates the stress. I didn’t want to be pulling a chipper with ropes or boards. This one just tracks in,” grinned Matt, clearly happy with the situation.
The XR8D hasn’t just improved access – It’s dramatically increased output and reduced fatigue across the crew.
The handover. Monitor’s Victorian Business Development Manager Cody Lehmann delivered the shiny new XR8D. Does Matt Staples (left) look happy, or what!
Chippers, grinders and clean-up options
Doubling
down on productivity and efficiency
The XR8D hasn’t just improved access –it’s dramatically increased output and reduced fatigue across the crew. By processing material on-site and eliminating long manual hauls, ARK Arborists has significantly reduced time spent per job.
Whether it’s bulky green waste or dense hardwood, the XR8D chews through it all – fast.
“We’ve cut our time on site in half in some cases,” explained Matt. “Efficiency-wise, it’s just worth it. We can do more in a day, and the crew’s not wrecked by the end of it.”
Key features that make a difference
Matt values the machine’s no-fuss, operator-first design, and rates as a standout feature the XR8D’s incredible infeed capacity.
“It’s a solid machine. Everything on it is designed for someone who actually uses a chipper,” he affirmed. “The way this chipper takes the size material it’s intended for is something else – it seems to have a limitless capacity. You could genuinely put eight-inch pieces through this chipper all day. It just keeps going and going.”
Machine highlights include:
• 55hp Doosan DPF diesel engine –powerful performance and long service life
• FörstGrip Feed Roller System – twin hydraulic rollers for aggressive feed of large timber
• AutoIntelligence Control System –fully water- and vibration-proof with intuitive diagnostics and control
• 8" x 10" infeed and large flywheel –high-volume chipping and excellent material throw
• Heavy-duty expandable tracks – climb slopes up to 35 degrees with stability on rough terrain, and
• Robust, low-maintenance construction – it’s a tough machine designed for longevity.
For ARK Arborists, it’s these design features that reduce downtime, speed up every job, and give confidence in any environment.
Support that goes the distance
The decision to go with Monitor for the purchase was just as straightforward. “The whole experience from start to finish has been brilliant,” said Matt.
The Först XR8D’s compact tracked design is built for sites with limited access.
“From the purchase to the support I’ve had over the phone, and sourcing parts… no complaints here.”
When asked whether Matt would choose to partner with Monitor in future, he had a clear-cut answer: “When I have to upgrade our XR8D for a new one, I’ll head Monitor’s way.”
When asked whether he’d recommend the Först XR8D to others in the arbor industry, Matt didn’t hesitate: “I definitely would,” he said, decisively. “Having a tracked chipper…most people think it’s only good for certain jobs. But once you’ve got one, you see how versatile it is.”
The machine has already opened
doors to projects that would have been logistically impossible before.
“It’s already managed to get me two particular jobs that would have been virtually impossible to do without a tracked machine,” beamed Matt. “We’re talking crazy embankments at the top of properties.”
For ARK Arborists, the Först XR8D isn’t just a chipper, it’s a business enabler, helping the team take on more work with more efficiency and less fatigue.
To find out more about the Först range, give the team at Monitor a call on 1800 025 024, or visit the website at monitor.net.au.
Chippers,
Vermeer’s VCS and Treescape
Leading tree-care businesses are shaping their strategies for the future through innovation, smart decision making, and investment in the right tools. Treescape’s adoption of Vermeer’s Cutting System wheel is a great example.
Treescape is a new generation of Green Asset Management specialists with multiple locations in both New Zealand and Australia. The company is a certified, full-service provider in arboriculture, horticulture, landscaping and grounds maintenance, and provides arboricultural consultancy services for development sites including residential, commercial, industrial, health, education and community developments.
Treescape started out in New Zealand with a VW Beetle, a couple of chainsaws and a solid work ethic. Australian operations started in 2006, and the company now employs over 600 staff across Australasia, and has moved on from the air-cooled boxer-four of the Volkswagon. These days Treescape has
a huge machinery fleet, and when it comes to chippers and stump cutters, it’s Vermeer all the way.
Contractual
“We mainly look for long-term contracts,” explained Treescape’s General Manager – Commercial, Allan Kliese, when The Australian Arbor Age asked for some background on the company. “Treescape looks to build relationships with energy suppliers – like Energy Queensland and Powerlink – and councils. We work with Brisbane City Council, Logan City Council, Redlands City Council, Gold Coast City council…then we’ve got a depot and crews up in Gladstone Council as well, and we do a fair amount of civil work.”
We were a little astonished at the
Treescape’s new SC48TX stump cutter makes good use of the VCS wheel. Tooth life is around 27 hours.
Images: Vermeer
scope of Treescape’s operations, but Allan had more to share.
“We have our own recycle yard where we bring all of our waste materials in and process them to minimise the impact of that waste moving into landfill. We try to get as much product as possible back out as usable materials – mulch and soils – and we recycle the concrete back into concrete plants and treat other materials the same way.”
The point
There’s certainly a great deal about Treescape which could be called ‘inspirational’, and while we were keen to find out more about a large company which stated its cornerstones included looking out and showing respect for others, respect for the natural world,
treasuring resources and stewardship and guardianship of others’ green resources, it was the company’s experience with the new Vermeer Cutting System (VCS) wheel we were interested in.
“We have eight grinders,” offered Allan, “They’re all Vermeer, bar one. Treescape bought out another company when it expanded into Australia in 2006 and continued to use the Vermeer products which were part of the acquisition.”
That sounded like a big investment in Vermeer product, but Allan was only part way through answering the query.
“That’s the stump grinders. I’m guessing we have upwards of 40 Vermeer chippers.”
A successful trial
As we tried to come to grips with the logistics of tracking and maintaining nearly 50 chippers and grinders, Allan moved on to the Vermeer Cutting System.
“This one is our first machine with the VCS,” he said thoughtfully.
“I was hesitant at first because we had seven or eight machines already with a certain type of teeth on them, but Vermeer, through Damian Cooper at the Richlands dealership here in Queensland, promoted this set. So we gave them a go, and we’ve ended up extremely happy. We won’t be changing them off this machine, and potentially, anything further we do, and anything we purchase, we’ll be putting the VCS teeth on.”
Less cost, more work
It was obvious the Vermeer Cutting System had made an impression on someone who saw a lot of chipper and grinder work, and who could base his opinions on a large number of machines working at a serious pro level.
What was the biggest advantage in the VCS fitment?
“Increased productivity,” said Allan without hesitation.
“We’re getting longer life out of the teeth, and that means more productivity. And reduced costs because we don’t have to replace the teeth so often. We don’t have to sharpen the teeth as often, either.
“The new teeth have been quite impressive. We’re getting about 27 hours from them.”
So there it is. If you want more from your grinder, fitting a VCS would be a great place to start.
The Vermeer cutting system features a patented design that includes doublesided teeth, a V-profile, centre-core protection, minimised recirculation and ease of maintenance.
Piranha’s BT310 is on track
Meet the all-new Piranha Chippers BT310 Woodchipper – quite possibly the first tracked chipper designed and manufactured in Australia.
The tracked BT310 shares the same technical specifications as the BT300 trailer version, meaning it’s powered by the gutsy 4HK1 Isuzu motor which produces 197hp. The power is then transferred via a hydraulically activated, self-adjusting clutch, which in turn spins the 650mm-diameter cutter drum with four knife pockets.
The infeed is 15"H x 20"W and features an aggressive twin horizontal feed wheel design, and the large top feed wheel produces impressive pulling power to easily handle difficult material. The Auto Lift & Crush on the Posi-Arc infeed means the BT310 will climb up onto large logs and also pull the
toughest branches in by itself. It doesn’t rely on an operator standing beside the machine to be manually activating the crush function to feed the timber.
Peace of mind
The chipper being mounted on a standard five-tonne excavator undercarriage ensures replacement parts are available should they be required, and the whole unit is operated via radio remote control – which also incorporates the standard two-speed function common to excavators.
The 400mm-wide rubber tracks ensure dependable, reliable performance in even the toughest, wettest ground conditions.
With easy access to the cutter drum for changing blades, and filters all mounted at the front of the enginecompartment door, servicing a woodchipper has never been this easy. Add in a class-leading five-year/3000hour warranty – the engine and clutch are covered by the manufacturer’s two-year warranty – and you have total peace of mind knowing that not only did you buy Australian-made and are supporting local manufacturing, but you also have the most productive 15" chipper available in the market today.
The result will be you saving time and money.
The chipper being mounted on a standard five-tonne excavator undercarriage ensures replacement parts are readily available.
Piranha Chippers
Image:
The BT310 will climb up onto large logs and also pull the toughest branches in by itself. Image: Piranha Chippers
Morbark prioritises operator safety with ergonomic designs and intuitive controls.
Images: Morbark
OMorbark’s Eeger Beever range
Whether it’s tackling thick underbrush in the Northern Territory or processing timber in the forests of Tasmania, Morbark Eeger Beever brush chippers and whole-tree chippers excel in manoeuvrability and performance.
ne of the standout features of Morbark equipment is its adaptability to Australia’s varied terrain.
Equipped with powerful engines and advanced hydraulic systems, these machines effortlessly handle the challenges of uneven ground and steep slopes, ensuring arborists can operate effectively in any environment.
Efficiency
Australia’s unique flora, including native eucalyptus trees and dense shrubbery, requires specialised equipment for effective vegetation management.
Morbark horizontal and tub grinders and whole-tree drum and disc chippers are designed to efficiently process a wide range of materials, converting them into valuable mulch or wood chips.
This capability not only aids in maintaining environmental balance, but also supports sustainable landmanagement practices essential for preserving Australia’s natural habitats.
Durability and reliability
Morbark equipment is engineered to withstand harsh weather conditions,
Morbark offers robust, reliable equipment capable of handling rugged terrain and diverse vegetation.
Morbark Eeger Beever brush chippers and whole-tree chippers are designed for longevity and minimal downtime.
including the extreme heat and occasional cyclones, which are commonplace across Australia.
Designed for longevity and minimal downtime, Morbark machinery ensures arborists can maintain productivity even in adverse weather, crucial for meeting deadlines and client expectations in Australia’s competitive arboriculture industry.
Safety and comfort
Morbark prioritises operator safety with ergonomic designs and intuitive controls.
Features such as enhanced visibility, emergency shut-off systems, and noisereducing technology contribute to a safer working environment, reducing the risk of accidents and enhancing overall operational efficiency.
Supporting Australia’s arborists
Morbark brush chippers, horizontal and tub grinders, and whole-tree chippers are not just tools but indispensable partners for arborists and forestry professionals in Australia. Their ability to adapt to diverse terrain, efficiency in
vegetation management, durability in harsh conditions, and focus on safety and comfort make them the preferred choice for professionals across the continent.
As Australia’s landscapes continue to evolve, Morbark remains committed to supporting arborists and forestry professionals with innovative solutions that uphold performance, reliability, and sustainability in every operation.
Stay in touch with Morbark and see the range of equipment at morbark.com.au.
When you choose the BVR Brush Chippers from Morbark, LLC, you’re not just investing in a machine — you’re investing in decades of innovation, quality, and craftsmanship. These chippers are designed to stand the test of time and make your toughest jobs easier and more profitable.
LEGENDARY PERFORMANCE
Don’t settle for less. Choose the chipping power of the BVR Brush Chippers and experience the difference that Morbark’s legendary performance can bring to your business.
Unlock Powerful Performance
with the BVR Line of Wood Chippers from Morbark.
When you choose a BVR Wood Chippers, you’re not just investing in a machine — you’re investing in decades of innovation, quality, and craftsmanship. These chippers are designed to stand the test of time and make your toughest jobs easier and more profitable. Don’t settle for less. Choose the chipping power of BVR Wood Chippers and experience the difference that Morbark’s legendary performance can bring to your business. To find a Dealer in your neck of the woods, go to https://dealers.morbark.com.
Monitor Industries - Australia
Ph: +61 1800 025 024
www.monitor.net.au
Stevens Group - New Zealand
Ph: +64 09 275 0443
www.stevensgroup.co.nz
To learn more about the complete line of BVR Wood Chippers, scan the QR Code with your mobile camera
Green-Tec’s TH3 tree handler is here
After the big reveal in the February/March issue of The Australian Arbor Age, the wait is finally over. The Green-Tec TH3 tree handler has now arrived in Australia.
The Vosch grapple-saw package, tailored specifically for tree handlers with telescopic booms. Image: Forest Centre
The visit from Green-Tec factory representatives provided a great opportunity for both training and testing out the TH3. Images: Forest Centre
We do a lot of work supplying attachments for excavators, telehandlers and truck cranes for the mechanised arb space,” beamed Rey from Forest Centre, Australian dealer for the new TH3. “And to say we’re excited to offer a complete ready-to-work treecare machine to complement these would be an understatement.”
Good experience
The TH3 having arrived via Melbourne, it made perfect sense for Forest Centre to work with a customer located in nearby South Gippsland for the first Australian demo and Green-Tec factory training. Korumburra-based business, Cut360, kicked off in early 2020 and owner Andrew Buchanan has since built up a productive fleet of equipment, including two 718E machines running Vosch grapple saws. Andrew and his crew put the TH3 through its paces, giving Forest Centre some valuable feedback from a team
The guys were impressed with the comfort and visibility from the operator’s cabin “ ”
“Andrew first contacted us to discuss grapple-saw attachments back in 2019 and during the pandemic,” explained Rey. “At the time we were discussing the pros and cons of highly customised excavator conversions and forestry carriers to improve safety in tree works, and the tree handlers that had been operating abroad since 2015 came up.
four years, and we’re extremely grateful to the Cut360 team for giving us their thoughts on the Green-Tec TH3 machine”.
Initial feedback
Rey and the Cut360 operators were able to spend time training with Green-Tec reps, discussing first impressions and gaining real working feedback on site. The stand-out features?
“It’s a brilliant unit, with a few unique features,” grinned Rey.
“The guys were impressed with the comfort and visibility from the operator’s cabin, and were big fans of the latest generation Vosch grapple-saw package.
“Being able to carry out regular engine and hydraulic service tasks via a forestry-style walk-in platform area – rather than climbing on top of the machine – is also a big plus”
To find out more about the TH3, plus opportunities to see the machine, reach out to Forest Centre on (02) 6947 2833 or log on to forestcentre.com.au/
Simultaneous 360o rotation and up to 40o left and right tilt.
New Cat® tiltrotators
Versatile new tiltrotators from Caterpillar deliver fully integrated solutions to increase machine utilisation and help lower costs.
Delivering all-round performance, the new Cat® tiltrotator line helps to deliver significant cost savings by reducing the number of machines and ground staff at a site.
The tilt rotate system allows the attachment to simultaneously rotate 360 o and tilt up to 40 o, allowing tracked excavators to perform a range of tasks – digging, grading and compacting –with more precise movements without repositioning the machine. Less machine repositioning helps to reduce undercarriage wear and lower costs. Highlights include:
• Simultaneous 360 o rotation and up to 40 o left and right tilt
• High-flow hydraulic performance up to 200l/min (52gpm)
• One grease-point connection with the machine’s auto-grease system.
Time saver
Caterpillar’s new, fully integrated TRS12, TRS17, and TRS20 models reduce installation time and show up automatically on the machine’s monitor, allowing it to be easily controlled by the joystick.
The tiltrotators can be used with a wide range of attachments like buckets,
grapples, compactors and more, allowing for higher machine utilisation and improved productivity. Plus, the new standard tilt sensor delivers precise tilt and rotation angles to the grading system.
High-flow system
The new models feature a standard high-flow swivel, providing up to 200l/ min flow at 250 bar (52gpm at 3626psi) for use with high-flow work tools. Pairing the tiltrotator with a nextgeneration Cat excavator that has a second hydraulic line boosts hydraulic flow and pressure to 250l/min at 350 bar (66gpm at 5076psi).
New pressure-compensated hydraulic valves manufactured with spools provide even better control of the hydraulic flow than previous designs, allowing the tiltrotator to maintain stable rotation speed regardless of tilt speed. A quickconnect interface provides fast hydraulic attachment changes, and SecureLock™ uses sensor technology inside the locking cylinder to verify the tool is correctly connected and securely locked to reduce the risk of swinging or dropping tools.
High efficiency
Cat TRS models feature a single greasepoint connection with the excavator’s auto-grease system, and the simpleto-use innovative lubrication system is developed to quickly distribute the right amount of grease to the appropriate points. Double-acting tilt cylinders fitted with a load-holding valve ensure the load is securely in position, even in the event of the hydraulic system losing pressure. Providing maximum heat distribution, the worm gearbox is filled with oil for optimum lubrication. With the new tiltrotator models, operators can change tools without leaving the cab when equipped with the full hydraulic coupler, enhancing safety, productivity, performance, and efficiency.
A plastic cover with built-in electrical harness provides easy connection to the hydraulic valves and simplifies servicing. Frame modification on the new series reduces dirt exposure for the grading sensor, which is further protected by a metal cover.
A complete list of Cat tiltrotators available by region can be found by visiting a Cat dealer or logging on to cat.com.
Cat tiltrotators help reduce the number of machines and ground staff at the site. Images: Caterpillar
On the cover
Output shaft power is a hefty 4.0kW, while chain speed is 21.3m/s
An
Husqvarna 564 XP®
The world’s first Husqvarna chainsaw with fuel injection.
Thanks to its fuel-injection system and new engine layout, the Husqvarna 564 XP® is a game-changer in its class.
and
easy starting procedure
low vibrations reduce strain on operators. Images: Husqvarna
An innovative combination of advanced technologies, including the fuel-injection system, make the 564 XP® a great choice for tree-care professionals.
Husqvarna, a global leader in outdoor power products, is proud to present the Husqvarna 564 XP®, the world’s first Husqvarna chainsaw with fuel injection, and Husqvarna 550i XP®, a powerful new battery chainsaw that redefines industry standards. Output shaft power of the 564 XP® is a hefty 4.0kW, while chain speed is 21.3m/s.
Users will experience an innovative combination of advanced technologies, including the fuel-injection system, and a new engine for instant acceleration and maximised productivity throughout the workday. Furthermore, the user experience is refined with an easy starting procedure and low vibrations, reducing strain on the operator’s body for less fatigue and stress.
Setting new standards
Professionals will benefit from effortless handling across a range of tasks.
“Husqvarna 564 XP® will be an instant favourite among tree professionals,” said
Gabriele Dovier, tree-care professional and H-team ambassador. “It’s incredibly compact, yet powerful, with a power-toweight ratio that makes an impression.
“Add in the smooth starting procedure and low vibrations and you’ve got a saw that professionals will trust for long workdays.”
Husqvarna 564 XP® features
• Fuel injection
To learn more of the Husqvarna chainsaw range, visit husqvarna.com/au/chainsaws.
• Snap-lock cylinder cover
• 2K moulded fuel window
“This saw will be a game changer, both on the ground and working aloft. It’s incredible! Amazing power-to-weight.” — Jamie Boston. Husqvarna H-Team ambassador
Saws, chainsaws and log splitters
Kress Commercial chainsaws deliver the performance professionals need without the noise, fumes, or high running costs of petrol models.
Images: Kress
Kress Commercial chainsaws: power, precision, and savings
The battery-powered solution transforming professional tree care with zero emissions and lower operating costs.
Aquiet revolution is reshaping professional tree care.
Whether you’re an independent arborist, part of a local council, or working with a commercial treeservice crew, the job is evolving – and today’s demands go beyond raw cutting power. You need quieter operation, especially in noisesensitive areas, along with zero emissions for a cleaner environment and instant torque for efficient, precise cutting.
Kress Commercial chainsaws deliver the performance professionals need without the noise, fumes, or high running costs of petrol models.
The KC300.9 60V 40cm chainsaw
A powerful all-rounder, the KC300.9 delivers 2.8kW of power – equivalent to a 50cc petrol chainsaw – driving a 0.325" LP chain at 24m/s. Its commercial-grade brushless motor maintains torque under load, ensuring consistent performance without stalling, and a stainless-steel bumper spike enhances cutting stability while the professional-grade chaintensioning system keeps the chain running smoothly over extended use.
For professional users
Designed for demanding, all-day use, Kress Commercial chainsaws feature fast charging, long-lasting batteries, high-efficiency brushless motors, and rugged construction. These tools reduce vibration-related injuries, protect
supporting eco-friendly initiatives. Its ultrafast-charging batteries, advanced chargers, and high-performance tools work together to create a seamless, fuel-free workflow. Charging in just 8-minutes1, the Kress 8-minute CyberPack batteries, used in models
Weight: 3.7kg (bare)
Price: $599 inc. GST (tool only)
A powerful all-rounder, the KC300.9 delivers 2.8kW of power – equivalent to a 50cc petrol chainsaw.
The new KC320.9 60V 35cm top-handle chainsaw
Built for aerial work, the KC320.9 top-handle chainsaw offers precise cuts and reduced kickback. It delivers 2.4kW of power – comparable to 45cc petrol units – with a 24m/s chain speed. It offers the ideal balance of reach and control for efficient pruning and removals at height.
Features include an adjustable oil pump, inertial brake, dual-action trigger, secure battery release, and multi-hook combination for safe operation at height.
The KC320.9 is powered by the CyberPack Nano, a compact battery that delivers high-efficiency performance with low weight.
Weight: 2.5kg (bare)
Price: $849 inc. GST (tool only)
Powered by the CyberPack Nano, the KC320.9 top-handle chainsaw delivers high-efficiency performance with low weight.
Saws, chainsaws and log splitters
1.6kW of power and a telescopic shaft that extends up to four metres make the KC330.9 ideal for overhead pruning.
KC330.9 60V telescopic pole saw The KC330.9 offers 1.6kW of power – on par with 35cc petrol models –and features a telescopic shaft that extends up to four metres. With a 25cm bar and 17m/s chain speed it’s ideal for overhead pruning and branch removal. The rear motor layout and two-point adjustment enhance balance and ease of use, reducing fatigue.
Weight: 5.7kg (bare)
Price: $899 inc. GST (tool only)
Power without compromise
Kress Commercial chainsaws deliver the cutting power of petrol without the noise, fumes, or maintenance. Designed for comfort and control, their low vibration and ergonomic build help crews work longer and more efficiently.
All Kress Commercial tools come with a five-year warranty2, and Kress CyberPack batteries are backed with an eight-year or 3000-cycle warranty3, offering exceptional long-term value and significantly lower lifetime operating costs.
Experience the Kress advantage
From sole operators to large-scale operations, Kress Commercial offers a powerful, cleaner, and more costeffective way to manage tree care. Visit your local dealer to experience the Kress difference – and for a limited time, enjoy 30% savings on Kress Commercial batteries and chargers.
For all current promotions and product registration, visit Kress.com.
1 Based on KAC804/KAC810 CyberPack batteries charged with the CyberTank in boost mode.
2 5-Year Tool Warranty: 3 years standard + 2 years extended^ (or 800 + 400 charging cycles), whichever comes first.
3 8-year Battery Warranty (KAC804/KAC810): 5 years standard + 3 years extended ^(or 2,000 +1,000 charging cycles), whichever comes first Warranty extension is subject to customer registration at kress.com within 30 days of purchase
Designed for demanding, all-day use with fast-charging, long lasting batteries.
TAKE CHARGE
Saws, chainsaws and log splitters
Unlock unmatched efficiency
The revolutionary STIHL MS 500i chainsaw is a high-performance tool designed to elevate workflow and efficiency, and it’s available right now at a sensational price.
In the demanding world of arboriculture, having the right tools can make all the difference. The STIHL MS 500i chainsaw stands out as a game-changer, offering unparalleled performance and ease of use. Whether you’re felling, cutting to length or pruning, this chainsaw is engineered to handle thick wood with precision and efficiency.
Innovative technology for superior performance
The STIHL MS 500i is the world’s first chainsaw to feature electronically controlled injection.
This groundbreaking STIHL injection technology ensures optimal engine performance and excellent starting characteristics, regardless of altitude or ambient temperature. By measuring
air pressure and internal and external temperatures, sensors provide data to the control unit, which then determines the ideal fuel quantity and ignition timing, resulting in rapid acceleration, high power, and low weight, making the MS 500i a powerhouse in any application.
• Rapid acceleration – the chain accelerates from 0kph to 100kph in just 0.25 seconds
The world’s first chainsaw to feature electronically controlled injection. Images: STIHL
High power, and low weight make the MS 500i a powerhouse in any application.
• Best power-to-weight ratio – an unmatched 1.24kg/kW
• Efficient fuel Injection – the STIHL 2-MIX engine offers high performance with low fuel consumption.
Designed
for
comfort and durability
The MS 500i is not just about power; it’s also designed with the user in mind. Features like STIHL ElastoStart reduce strain on muscles and joints, while the HD2 air filter, captive nuts on the sprocket cover, controlled-delivery oil pump, tool-free fuel cap, and sidemounted chain-tensioning enhance convenience and durability. This chainsaw is built to withstand the rigors of daily use, ensuring it can be relied on for years to come.
Enhanced workflow
For arborists, efficiency is key. The lightweight design and dynamic swivel behaviour of the MS 500i make it highly manoeuvrable, allowing faster and more effective work. Whether tackling large-scale forestry projects or precise pruning tasks, this chainsaw adapts to your needs, improving your workflow and productivity.
A must-have
The STIHL MS 500i is more than just a chainsaw; it’s an investment in your craft. Its advanced technology, superior performance, and user-friendly features make it an indispensable tool for any arborist. By adding the MS 500i to your toolkit, you’re not only enhancing your capabilities, but ensuring you can tackle any job with confidence and ease.
Act now and save $450
Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to upgrade your equipment and save $450 on the STIHL MS 500i chainsaw. This limited-time offer is your chance to experience the cutting-
Advanced technology, superior performance, and user-friendly features.
edge technology and unmatched performance of the MS 500i at an unbeatable price. Visit your local STIHL dealer today and take advantage of this incredible promotion – valid at participating STIHL dealers from June 02 to August 03, 2025, while stocks last.
Visit stihl.com.au for full T&Cs. Equip yourself with the best and see
the difference the STIHL MS 500i can make in your work. With its innovative features and exceptional performance, this chainsaw is the ideal complement to any arborist’s suite of tools. Act now and elevate your efficiency and productivity with the STIHL MS 500i – your ultimate partner.
The STIHL 2-MIX engine offers high performance with low fuel consumption.
Can your arborist operation transform waste wood into a valuable revenue stream?
The Rex 600 can manage 10 cubic metres per hour with two operators.
Images: Whitlands Engineering
Whitlands Engineering is the only name you need to know when it comes to firewood processing – designing and
manufacturing
Australia’s most trusted brands: Superaxe, and Rex.
With the cost of collecting and disposing of wood increasing across the country, the opportunity to process tree waste into saleable split timber has huge potential to create a valuable revenue stream.
Australian owned and Australian made, Whitlands Engineering has earned its reputation as a leader in the industry. CEO David Burder said, “We’ve been providing machines to the farm, forestry and arbor industries for over 31 years. The durability, ease of use and productivity of all our machines means they are the first choice for many companies seeking to exploit the profit potential in tree waste and plantation timber.”
With hardwood firewood selling at over $320 per ton, there’s good money to be made if it can be processed efficiently.
Covering all bases
Whitlands Engineering’s range of machinery covers all bases. The Superaxe wood-splitter range suits farm and small commercial operations, while the Rex range provides solutions to bulk and industrial firewood processing.
The Rex Firewood Processor range and the Rex Log Saw range are the result of many years’ research and development and have been met with industry acclaim. A variety of wood-cleaning trommels, infeed hoppers and outfeed elevators round out the catalogue, providing options for all wood-handling requirements.
Safety first and foremost
For businesses looking to invest, there are two key factors in machinery selection, and the first is safety.
The safety of machinery operators is critical. The key issue for the arbor industry is if an employee uses a non-compliant machine and injures themselves, it’s the company that’s most likely liable, not the manufacturer. The same applies for machines which have been tampered with. In that case the company can be fined for owning a tampered machine even if there is no actual injury. Both Superaxe and Rex ranges have set benchmark standards across the industry when it comes to ensuring operator safety.
The second major factor is output efficiency. Mulching excess timber may be quick, but the sale price is low compared to split timber. The key for business then is to maximise output and minimise labour. The larger Superaxe WS3150 has an estimated output from blocked timber of 4m3 per hour. The larger Rex 600 can manage 10m3 per hour with two operators. Both of these machines are road towable, compact and reliable, making them top options for processing blocks into split timber on site.
See the range
The Superaxe WS3150 has an estimated output from blocked timber of 4m3 per hour.
So, for arbor operations looking for ways to drive profit, the Whitlands Engineering range of wood splitters and processors is the ideal place to start. Visit superaxe.com.au for all the information
Husqvarna 550i XP®The next giant leap in battery power
A high-performance chainsaw capable of delivering 3.0kW of power or more. Images: Husqvarna
Husqvarna 550i XP® chainsaw
Name: Husqvarna 550i XP®
Weight: 4.1kg without cutting equipment
Power: 2.5kW – 40-B330X/≥3kW
40-B540X
Bar length: 13"-20"
Country of manufacture: Huskvarna, Sweden
The 550i XP® gives us the power of petrol with the convenience of battery without compromising performance “ ” “
A new benchmark for forestry and tree-care professionals.
“Pioneering what’s possible with battery technology, Husqvarna has taken on the 50cc petrol market with its largest battery chainsaw yet. Compatible with the new 40-B330X lithium battery for impressive manoeuvrability and reduced weight, or the 40-B540x for increased power and maximum run time. It means more options to add to the job site for every professional tree worker, complementing an already impressive line-up of batteryoperated chainsaws.”
“I’m loving the gains in this area for our industry.” — Kiah Martin, Director, TreeStyle Pty Ltd, and Husqvarna Australia H-Team Ambassador.
At Husqvarna we are committed to driving innovation that empowers professionals to work smarter, safer and more efficiently. The announcement of Husqvarna 564 XP® and 550i XP® represents a major leap forward in chainsaw technology,” said Gent Simmons, Senior VP of Product Development at Husqvarna.
This is a cutting-edge tool designed to elevate performance, efficiency, manoeuvrability and user comfort, setting a new benchmark for forestry and tree-care professionals.
Husqvarna 550i XP ®
Husqvarna continues to push the boundaries of battery technology with the 550i XP®, a high-performance chainsaw capable of delivering 3.0kW of power or more – comparable to Husqvarna’s 50cc petrol-driven modelsand designed to take a 13"-20" bar.
Instant response
Husqvarna’s 550i XP® is a saw with two characteristics, adjustable by simply switching the battery. Choose between amazing power output that surpasses that of a 50cc petrol chainsaw with the 40-B540X battery (coming Q1, 2026), or a light, truly agile, smooth machine with 40-B330X battery.
It’s innovation at its best, designed for operators to feel on top of the day’s tasks, no matter what they might be.
“Husqvarna has taken battery chainsaws to the next level,” said Douglas Wells, tree-care professional and H-team ambassador. “The 550i XP® gives us the power of petrol with the convenience of battery – without compromising performance. It’s efficient with an instant response and built for serious work.”
All seasons
With this addition, Husqvarna strengthens its commitment to innovation, offering professionals tools that maximise productivity, reduce strain, and enhance the cutting experience.
See the full range of Husqvarna chainsaws at husqvarna.com/au/ chainsaws.
Association news
QAA news
The Queensland Arboricultural Association continues its great work.
SRT Workshop wrap-up
In April, the QAA had the pleasure of hosting Barton Allen-Hall for a one-day Single Rope Technique (SRT) Workshop — and what a fantastic day it was! Barton’s expertise, passion, and hands-on teaching style made the day a true standout for both beginner and experienced climbers.
Participants explored the fundamentals of SRT climbing, advanced rescue techniques, and rigging systems designed for modern arboriculture practices. The interactive nature of the workshop gave attendees the opportunity to practice new methods under the guidance of one of the best in the industry.
A big thank you to Barton for sharing his knowledge and to everyone who attended, helping to make it a sold-out event. Stay tuned for future workshops — this one was a real game-changer for anyone looking to upskill.
Aerial Rescue and Groundies workshops
As this edition goes to print, both the QAA’s Aerial Rescue Workshop and Groundies Skills Workshop have just wrapped up. A full event recap will be shared in the next edition of The Australian Arbor Age.
From early feedback, it’s clear these sessions have been vital for developing practical, lifesaving skills and supporting safe, efficient ground operations. Thank you to all who supported these events — we look forward to sharing more highlights soon.
Climbing
competitions – the QAA needs you!
It’s nearly that time of year again. Keep an eye out for the upcoming announcements regarding:
• The Freestyle Climbing Competition, and
• The Queensland Tree Climbing Championships (QTCC).
The QAA is calling on the arb community for volunteers and sponsors to help keep these much-loved
competitions running strong. Without arb-community support these events can’t continue to grow.
If you can lend a hand or know someone who can, please contact the QAA office. Every bit helps, and it’s a great way to give back to the industry and support the next generation of climbers.
Membership and sponsorship renewals
It’s renewal time for both memberships and sponsorships.
Renewing ensures you stay connected with the latest industry updates, networking, workshops, discounts, and exclusive opportunities within the QAA community.
If you need assistance or have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact the office — it’s there to help.
Let’s continue building a strong, skilled, and united arboricultural industry.
Spotlight: Approved Register
Member: Meet Ben McDonald –Branch Creek Tree Services
The QAA is excited to introduce a new section in The Australian Arbor Age, where the association gets to introduce and get to know its Approved Register Members a little better!
First up is Ben McDonald from Branch Creek Tree Services.
• Business name: Branch Creek Tree Services
Both the QAA’s Aerial Rescue Workshop and Groundies Skills Workshop have just wrapped up. Images: Ben McDonald/ Branch Creek Tree Services
• Years in operation: 27
• Business philosophy: striking a balance between quality and efficiency
• Orange or Blue? “Hmm…not sure what blue is — but if it’s chainsaws, it’s STIHL all the way.”
• What drives you? “I love the challenges and problem solving in tree work. It keeps things interesting. I couldn’t imagine doing a boring job.”
• What should the public better understand? “Pretty much everything! But seriously, we need to educate people about what an arborist really is — qualified tree-care professionals, not just anyone with a chainsaw.”
• What should the state government better understand? “That arboriculture is a massive, fast-growing trade. It’s easy to underestimate how many people are working in this space.”
• Advice to other business owners?
Participants explored the fundamentals of SRT climbing, advanced rescue techniques, and rigging systems designed for modern arboriculture practices.
“Invest in training your staff. Everyone benefits from a more knowledgeable team.”
• If you could magically change the industry? “Every single worker would be properly qualified: labourers with machinery and chipper tickets, arborists with Cert III and Diploma qualifications.”
Thank you, Ben, for kicking off the new series and sharing your insights with the QAA community.
Harsh payroll penalties for businesses
The TTIA’s Brian Beecroft flags the importance of paying correct wages.
From January 01, 2025, Australia introduced new criminal underpayment laws, making it illegal to intentionally underpay employees. As a business owner, it’s important tree contractors understand these changes as it’s crucial to protect your business and maintain trust with your employees.
How to protect your business
Here are simple steps to help you comply with the new laws…
• Check your payroll: audit your records to ensure employees are being paid correctly, including overtime and penalty rates
• Fix any errors: If you find underpayments, rectify them promptly. Transparency goes a long way
• Understand the code: the Voluntary Small Business Wage Compliance Code offers guidance and tools to help small businesses pay employees correctly, and
• Stay Informed: keep up to date with wage laws to avoid unintentional mistakes.
Why It matters
Far too many businesses across the country have recently been hit with underpayment-of-wages bills, penalties for underpaying their workers or incorrectly accruing their entitlements following audits by the Fair Work Ombudsman. The regulator has made it clear it will continue its strong approach to enforcement and outcomes and will focus on underpayment breaches of Awards and the National Employment Standards.
Tree Contractors can incorporate award entitlements into a higher remuneration, so long as a written agreement is in place, specifying what
Brian Beecroft TTIA CEO
entitlements are compensated for, and employers ensure an employee’s remuneration does not fall below what the award requires. Employers must maintain adequate records of work performed because the onus of proof is always on employers in answering any underpayment claim.
The government’s focus is on targeting deliberate wage theft while supporting businesses to do the right thing. By taking proactive steps now, you can safeguard your business, avoid penalties, and create a fair and positive workplace for your employees.
Get support when you need it
Running a small business is demanding, and payroll compliance can be complex. If you’re unsure, you can access expert advice from TTIA. If you are not already a member, contact the TTIA Hotline on (02) 9264 0011 or email ttia@ttia.asn.au for details.
TTIA member wage audit
TTIA provides an in-house wageand-payroll-audit service by qualified staff. Contact TTIA to arrange a payroll audit which will be conducted in a confidential manner, and any action plan as a result will be formulated between TTIA and its member. This service is available in all states.
TCAA visits the ATCC and ArbAus 2025 Conference
TCAA Compliance Officer Dan McArdle joined a national conversation and enjoyed some excellent climbing.
There were some marvellous climbers in action, both male and female, The speed and the visual display was second to none. Images: TCAA
I’d never been to a tree-climbing competition, so to attend The Australian Tree Climbing Championships (ATCC) as part of the Arb Australia 2025 Conference in Canberra in March was a great experience.
From my perspective, tree climbing or arbor work – whatever you like to call it – has always been hard work with few pleasures. I don’t have, and never have had, any passion for just climbing a tree for the sake of it. It’s always been just work – and hard work at that.
I attended all events and saw some marvellous climbers in action, both male and female, and the speed and the visual display were second to none. I take my hat off to all competitors. My congratulations to everyone who took part.
Modern kit
One thing that did strike me was the amount of jingle-jangles attached to the competitors’ climbing harnesses. This amazed me, even more so when I related it to the leanly equipped harness I wear. For the past 40 years a second prussic and figure-eight has always been adequate for me –however, we’re not talking Single Rope Technique (SRT).
To be truthful, I do have a Zig Zag and several other late-model jingle-jangles and ascenders, but I know my days are now limited to EWPs or felling trees, so those fittings gather dust in the kit.
I am so grateful for the welcome I was given by the organisers and I look forward to attending another event at some point in the future.
Career pathways
While I was in Canberra there was an opportunity to meet with counterparts from all Australia’s arboricultural associations, representatives from other arboriculture businesses – including owners and managers – and councils and utility managers.
The networking was invaluable, as was the discussion on trends within the industry and typical Industry association-related matters.
We know the industry is going to continue to gain strength. That goes without saying. But one question was raised several times: ‘Where are the young school leavers who will be taking up the trade?’
A lot of the questions and talk were around the recognition of
From left: Arb Australia’s Jamie Boston, TCAA’s Jim McArdle, author and TCAA Compliance Officer, Dan McArdle.
The size of the tree doesn’t dictate the care it needs. The bonsai display was incredible.
an apprenticeship as opposed to a traineeship. WA offers an apprenticeship, but the eastern states don’t. Is that the cause of low take up in school pathways to arboricultural traineeships? This was discussed on many different levels.
The Tree Contractors Association (TCAA) has, on many occasions, assisted with the pathways’ stream of Certificate II Showcases at school vocational days to entice interest in a traineeship in Cert 2 Arboriculture. However, the greater uptake is with Certificate 3 Arboriculture, which also has the bigger acceptance among mature students, and a high noncompletion rate.
Significant numbers of school students are not using this option as a training pathway from school leavers into Certificate 2 and on to full qualification Cert 3. We know the employer’s costs of training can be expensive, and the risk of losing staff after training is also well known. These factors are limiting the opportunities offered by employers.
These conversations with interstate bodies were invaluable and timely. Recently I’ve been in discussions with ITAB NSW following a request for a supporting letter from the TCAA in regard to this very hot topic.
I’m happy to invite all members to contact me with thoughts on a possible transition from traineeship to an apprenticeship.
Guiding change
Another concern is the status of all existing Certificate 3 qualifications, and, down the track, the implications and prospective contractual requirements under the Trade Apprenticeship outcome.
The last thing I would want is to change the AQF 3 outcome of the traineeship currently on offer if it was converted to an apprenticeship with all units of competency totally transferable. There is also the allocated time frame to complete the
training. Currently the traineeship is competency-based training, and, as most students are usually from within the trade and mature, early completions on this competency-based system must remain.
When I left school, I was indentured into a toolmaking apprenticeship with a defined timeframe of four years in total. Formal training was typically one full day at TAFE over three years and one additional year for the boss.
Open to discussion
These questions, and I’m sure others, need to be clarified by industry. The TCAA will continue to see the outcome will not produce any further grief and have the existing Certificate 3 arborist left behind.
All TCAA members and industry stakeholders are invited to contact Dan on 0418 165 650 with any questions or thoughts on the matter.
New competition for young arborists
The New Arborist of the Year contest has taken Australia by storm – and it’s here to stay.
The NAotY comp was about learning and supporting skill development.
Making its debut alongside the Australian Tree Climbing Championships in Canberra in March, the competition was an instant hit. Designed for arborists in their first three years of industry, it’s all about celebrating skill development, encouraging new talent, and creating connections in a fun and supportive environment.
Originally a long-standing success in New Zealand, the competition was backed by the New Zealand Arboriculture Association and was launched in Australia by Arboriculture Australia (Arb Aus). Arb Aus had to modify the NZ version for practical reasons, but also wanted to open it up to non-climbers and make it accessible for all new arborists.
What did competitors say?
Katie McMahon emerged as the winner of the first-ever event.
Encouraged by her brother to join the industry, Katie began working with him doing residential tree works in Armidale, NSW, in 2023. After completing her Certificate III in Arboriculture, she recently started as a Tree Maintenance Officer with Armidale Regional Council.
“I was completely shocked to win and
it still hasn’t sunk in yet!” shared Katie. “I’m so grateful to the other competitors, Arboriculture Australia, the judges, sponsors, and volunteers who made it such a great day. The New Arborist of the Year webpage said ‘There’s lots to gain and nothing to lose,’ which prompted me to enter. I thought it would be a great opportunity to meet other new arborists and challenge myself.
“I’m really excited to be working in arboriculture. It’s a welcoming and supportive industry, and it was great to learn about the variety of roles and opportunities in Canberra.”
Another competitor, Brad Hocking, is in his third year in the industry and decided to compete while he still had the chance. He shared, “It looked like it could be fun and I like to challenge myself. I was excited to be a part of something new, and it was an opportunity to be involved in the Tree Climbing Championships. I volunteered on the day prior.”
Brad felt it was very easy to get involved.
“It was an inclusive and supportive environment,” he continued. “Competitions like this can seem intimidating from the outside, but all competitors in our event and the
climbers from the nationals were extremely friendly and open. It was a fun day and a great networking opportunity.”
Alex Doyle also competed on the day and commented, “I decided to take part to meet and connect with other arborists. I wanted to be there, and to see the other events that took place on the day as well. I really enjoyed it; it was a good chance to test my skills against others.”
An unforgettable atmosphere
From start to finish, the event was buzzing with camaraderie, encouragement, and a sense of inclusivity. The atmosphere was relaxed, friendly, and pressure-free, allowing competitors to focus on showcasing their skills without unnecessary stress. Every element of the competition was thoughtfully designed to ensure a level playing field for everyone. Instead of competing under watchful eyes, knot tying and worksite safety assessments were done individually, eliminating direct comparisons and allowing participants to focus on their own performance. In a move to accommodate different learning styles,
Images: Arb Aus
the worksite safety assessment was done vocally, giving those who find written assessments challenging a chance to shine.
The emphasis on inclusion and accessibility was intentional—and it worked. The event wasn’t just about competition; it was about learning, growing, and celebrating the arboriculture community together.
Thoughts from organisers and volunteers Organiser of the event was Alex Wilson, Business Development Manager, Arboriculture Australia.
“The award is about celebrating our passion for the industry and for young arborists’ eagerness to learn,” explained Alex. “We wanted to introduce competitors to the arboriculture community so they can grow their network and see they have plenty of people to call on for advice and support.”
Rebecca Barnes was a co-organiser and key adjudicator of the competition.
“When I first started in the arboriculture industry, there were limited role models for people like me – for instance, someone of smaller stature, not really physically strong, a
woman,” Rebecca said. “It’s important to keep progressing our industry and bringing new people in. This is not a one-type-fits-all industry, we need different people to be engaged. We should be promoting arboriculture as a vast industry with lots of career opportunities. If young people are not aware of this, they may not be interested in a career in arboriculture.
“Trees are forever important, especially now with climate change, and more people than ever need to understand the value of trees.”
Arb Australia Board Director – and one of the competition judges – Royce Turner shared his thoughts on the event, saying, “I thoroughly enjoyed it. It’s a great way to ease into the main competition.
“The national climbing championship is a high-level event that demands focus and precision, but the New Arborist of the Year competition had a more relaxed and supportive atmosphere. It was really about the competitors refining their skills and gaining confidence. I think it’s a fantastic opportunity for young arborists—it’s still an arborist contest, but without the added pressure of the main event.”
Mona Bruckhoff, Arb Australia Board
Competitors
From left: Matilda Fisher, Katie McMahon (Winner 2025), Luke Veikkanen, James Surtees, Jye Austin-Hore, Alex Doyle, Tyla Bickley, Natalie Miller, Brad Hocking. Image: Arb Aus
Director, was another key volunteer and organiser at the event. She said she wanted to help because it was a great initiative.
“It was a first of its kind for Australia and I wanted to be part of working to make it an annual event,” she said: “We need to open our conversation as to what is out there in our industry; and it’s a broad range of skills that we need. The better we are at sharing this, the more information younger generations will have, and this will help encourage them to get involved in this industry.”
What did sponsors say?
Besides the organisers, volunteers and competitors, the sponsors were integral in making the event happen. PST (Power Safety Training) and Skills Insight were the official sponsors, with CSP Distribution supplying a pack of gear on the day.
“We couldn’t have done it without our sponsors, and they were engaged
while he still qualified for entry.
Rebecca Barnes (left), co-organiser and key adjudicator, offered some knot-tying tips to Tyler Bickley.
Alex Doyle dealt with a tangle in the Throwline, watched by James Surtees.
Brad Hocking (right), in his third year in the industry, decided to compete
Katie McMahon (left) won the day and is shown here with Skills Insight’s Tracey Woods.
Alex Wilson, Business Development Manager at Arb Aus.
and passionate about this event from the very beginning,” said Alex Wilson. “The event was a huge success and ran smoothly from start to finish, all thanks to the dedication of the volunteers and the generous support from our sponsors.”
Rebecca Savige from PST added, “As an RTO, it made sense to sponsor this event. We are here to train new arborists, and Katie McMahon, who won the event, is actually one of our trainees. This event acknowledges newcomers and makes them feel valued.”
Skills Insight was another key sponsor of the event. Michael Hartman, CEO at Skills Insight explained, “The New Arborist of the Year Award is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate fresh talent and encourage skill development in the arboriculture industry. Skills Insight was proud to support this award, which showcased the skill and passion of new entrants, and highlighted the training and expertise required for a career in arboriculture.”
Why is this event important to the industry?
“The New Arborist of the Year Award provides an exciting and engaging opportunity for new industry entrants to challenge themselves and find satisfaction in their skill development. The competition provides recognition of the many skills arborists possess, from working with rope, to a knowledge of trees, as well as essential safety practices.” Michael Hartman said.
Alex Witt, Director of CSP Distribution, who supplied showbags and throwline kits for the competition, commented, “We have been supporting the arboriculture industry for 30 years, and have always been at the competitions to promote the high standards of the industry. It is generally difficult to attract new people to the industry, and this event offers a fun and educational way to get young people interested. That’s why we are happy to support it.”
Stay tuned for more exciting updates as the competition continues to grow and inspire the next generation of arborists.
Events
The New Arborist of the Year competition was comprised of five events:
1. Tree ID
2. Knot tying
3. Throwline
4. Worksite safety assessment
5. Quick-fire quiz
All skills and knowledge tests were based on the Minimum Industry Standards (3 Series) books, core references in the Certificate III Arboriculture.
Looking ahead
The winner’s trophy was donated by Treasuring our Trees, a volunteer-led non-profit initiative that repurposes fallen trees for sustainable projects such as garden furniture, school equipment, nature trails, veggie gardens, and much more.
The New Arborist of the Year Competition is set to become an annual fixture, with the next competition planned for Hobart in April 2026.
Part of WA’s history, this Melaleuca raffiaphylia is a heritage tree and we need to try and save it at all costs.
Images: ArbWest
PSHB update
Dave Crispin, senior arborist at Treeswest Australia and Arboricultural Association of Western Australia (ArbWest) interim president, has been on the front lines of the Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer situation in Western Australia.
Chemical manufacturing company
Bio Herbicides Australia (BHA) has been working with ArbWest and a local government authority south of the Swan River in response to the Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer (PSHB) infestation.
The particular borer we’re working on is Euwallacea fornicates, which carries a symbiotic fungus called Fusarium. The Fusarium active in WA is different to the Fusarium active in California, Israel and South Africa, having morphed into something called Fusarium AF-18 Complex. It’s still pathogenic, and the beetle feeds on it.
The borer
Although Euwallacea fornicates is a bark-boring beetle, it doesn’t actually kill the tree. It’s the fungus that kills the tree by interrupting the flow of nutrients and water. The tree tries to compartmentalise the damage, and in so doing, stops the flow to and from the canopy.
We’ve seen trees here in WA which have died within 18 months of being infected.
Two up
ArbWest, in conjunction with BHA, has been monitoring the infestation rates of the borer, and when we deemed it to be ‘heavy’, we injected the tree and monitored the result using funnel traps to catch and count the borer. We wanted to see the numbers of the pest, but also ensure we were looking at the same borer. We’d found a different borer on another site. It was still a polyphagous borer, but we weren’t quite sure which fungus it actually carried. There’s just not a lot of information available at the moment.
The CSIRO morphologically sequenced and identified the borer, establishing beyond doubt we now have two types of PSHB beetles in WA – Euwallacea fornicatus and Xyleborinus artestriatus.
Action
The Department of Primary Industry and Regional Development (DPIRD) is in charge of the response and is actively
The CSIRO morphologically sequenced and identified the borer, establishing beyond doubt we now have another Ambrosia beetle in WA
pursuing eradication. That programme has been ongoing since 2021 when the beetle was first recognised. Back then it was confined to Fremantle. But it’s spread, and now it’s in the northern, eastern and southern suburbs. There are two zones being enforced at the moment. Zone A is most of Perth metro, and Zone B covers the outlying suburbs. Each zone has different restrictions and regulations, but basically, no wood, mulch or timber materials can be transported outside those areas.
Working within those confines is very challenging. It’s very difficult to tackle this thing when wood and beetle examples can’t be sent to a lab for identification unless we apply for a movement permit which can take weeks to come through. Timber samples also need a movement permit. They have to
be sent to a specialised laboratory for examination to see whether treatments have translocated up through the conductive tissue of trees. The only way to assess whether some of the chemical combinations are working is to dissect some of the limbs on the trees we’ve injected. Some of the images here show dissected samples where we’ve found dead beetles.
The good news is there are some very good people working on the project. BHA has organised a task group made up of a Queensland University professor, three representatives from BHA – including one based in WA – myself from ArbWest, and Matt Clark from local government.
The group has been working with three different chemical combinations based on proven results using individual chemicals which have given positive
Dead beetles have been found after trees have been injected.
The new PSHB Ambrosia beetle.
results in southern California. Along with those three combinations we run a control, and the aim of all the work is to find a combination which stops the beetle, and which can be licenced by the Australian Pesticides Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA). Once we’ve tested the combinations and carefully logged the results, and they stand up to scientific scrutiny, they’re peer reviewed. From there the results go to the APVMA, and hopefully we’ll end up with a licence which will allow us to deal with the PSHB beetles safely and effectively.
The state of play
Based on what we’re seeing right now, it looks like the borer is travelling. Given that it was only in Fremantle in 2021, and now in 2025 it’s expanded to cover a huge area, it’s a possibility it could move interstate. DPIRD has conducted an extensive publiceducation campaign so people understand not to transport wood or timber products, and the zones restrict movement of wood. But when people collect firewood – and with winter on the way people are collecting – they go into some of these areas and may unknowingly pick up timber which is infected. It would only take one person with a trailer-load of timber in which one branch or log hosts a mated female, and a whole new colony will start.
Timber with borer holes and larvae.
Hopeful
The chemical compounds on trial appear to be working.
We’ve found dead beetles, but the chemicals have caused dispersal in some of the host trees. The beetle has also shown a plastic response. It’s underdeveloped.
That underdevelopment is still being studied so we’re not certain what it means yet. We haven’t been able to quantify the extent of the underdevelopment, but the chemical has forced the mature borers to leave the site because the Fusarium has either died or doesn’t serve the beetle’s purpose any more. In response, it seems the beetle has sped up its development and is leaving the host sooner.
So we know our injections are causing some interesting results. If we can continue to work with a number of LGAs to tackle the borer, I think we have a good chance of slowing it down, and with the eradication program moving ahead, I think there’s a very good chance we’ll be able to arrive at a satisfactory outcome where PSHB is concerned.
The Fusarium active in WA is different to the Fusarium active in California, Israel and South Africa.
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Why life insurance is essential for Australian arborists
With over 20 years of experience providing life-insurance advice to professionals, small business and sole proprietors, Lawrence Kennedy is a seasoned adviser specialising in personal and business risk protection. Here he shares some hard-won experience relating to tree-care professionals
WORDS: LAWRENCE KENNEDY.
Arborists play a vital role in the preservation, safety, and sustainability of natural and built environments. From managing hazardous trees to providing expert consultation on vegetation and tree health, arborists operate in a physically demanding and high-risk industry.
Surety Life specialises in tailored lifeinsurance solutions for professionals in high-risk trades, including arboriculture. With over 20 years’ experience providing expert insurance advice, Surety Life understands both the occupational hazards and the coverage needs specific to Australian arborists.
The daily risks
Whether climbing, cutting, or consulting, arborists are frequently exposed to physical danger. Falls from height, chainsaw injuries, electrocution, and machinery-related incidents are just a few of the risks encountered on the job. According to Safe Work Australia, arboriculture consistently ranks among the most hazardous professions in terms of serious injury and fatality rates.
Yet despite the high level of risk, many arborists – particularly those who are self-employed – operate without adequate personal-insurance coverage, leaving themselves and their families
Surety Life understands both the occupational hazards and the coverage needs specific to Australian arborists.Image: lenaivanova2311/stock.adobe.com
financially exposed in the event of an accident, illness, or death. What types of insurance should arborists consider?
1. Life Insurance: a core policy that pays a lump-sum benefit to beneficiaries in the event of a fatality or diagnosis of a terminal illness, ensuring families or dependents are financially supported and able to cover debts, mortgages, or future costs.
2. Trauma Cover: also known as critical illness insurance. This cover provides a lump sum payment if there’s a diagnosis of a serious medical condition such as cancer, stroke, or
heart attack. For arborists whose livelihood depends on physical ability, trauma cover is vital for recovery and maintaining financial stability during periods of serious illness.
3. Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) Cover: TPD insurance pays a lump sum in the event of permanent disability leaving an arborist unable to work again in their current, or any other, occupation, depending on the policy. For arborists whose careers depend heavily on physical capability, this cover can provide essential financial relief and support long-term care or retraining.
4. Income Protection: this provides a regular income for someone unable to work due to illness or injury. Income protection is particularly important for self-employed arborists who rely solely on their ability to perform physical tasks to generate income.
Why specialist advice matters
Generic insurance policies often fail to account for the unique demands of
high-risk industries like arboriculture. Surety Life takes the time to understand an individual’s occupation, business structure, and personal circumstances before recommending a solution. The goal is to ensure a policy is fitfor-purpose and that you’re not underinsured or paying for unnecessary cover.
Surety Life also assists with policy structuring for tax efficiency and can liaise with accountants or financial advisers if needed.
Life insurance that grows with you
As your career evolves – whether a business expands, takes on employees, or specialises in consultancy work –insurance needs will change. Surety Life provides ongoing reviews and advice to ensure cover remains aligned with your goals and lifestyle.
Start with a conversation
If you’re an Australian arborist and haven’t reviewed your personal insurance recently – or if you’re unsure
LIFE INSURANCE FOR ARBORISTS
PROTECTING THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE PROFESSION
Working as an arborist involves daily exposure to significant risks — from operating at heights and using heavy equipment to providing critical advice and assessments. Yet many professionals in the industry remain underinsured or unaware of the protection available.
At Surety Life, we provide tailored life insurance solutions designed specifically for arborists. Whether you're self-employed or part of a larger team, our expertise ensures your policy meets the needs of your profession and personal circumstances.
We understand the complexities of your work and offer guidance to ensure your financial security — and that of your family or business — is well protected.
Because your life is as important as the work you do.
whether your current policy truly protects you – it’s time to talk. Your work protects communities. Let Surety Life help protect you.
Visit arboristinsurance.com.au or call 03 7053 0792 to arrange a confidential consultation with a specialist.
AirSpade 2000
Using the power of compressed air, AirSpade 2000 uncovers underground objects, utility lines and sensitive tree roots without harm.
Green Extraction Technologies, LLC, is an arboricultural specialist that offers expert tree care and education on protecting and preserving the urban forest. Green Extraction Technologies CEO and International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist Daniel Miraval explained the impact urban development and cultural greenindustry practices have on soil and trees
Impact
“Clearing land for development has a long-term impact on the health of trees and their root systems.,” explained Miraval. “Soil is tamped down for building and heavy equipment is transported across what is known as ‘the critical root zone’. This action removes air pockets –also known as pore space – that support
a healthy environment for root growth, tree vigour and survivability – and that’s just for existing trees.
“Beyond that, trees are often unknowingly planted too deeply due to excess soil covering structural roots when trees are grown in the nursery.”
“It’s not that anyone purposefully adds dirt onto trees to hurt them,” said Miraval. “It’s often just a by¬product of cultivation and growing practices.”
“In addition,” he said, “there’s this horrible practice called ‘volcano mulching’ that’s an epidemic problem in the urban forest.”
Not good practice
Often maintenance companies unknowingly add excessive amounts of mulch to trees, piling it up and
creating what looks like a volcano, further smothering the roots. The trees then either start growing in the wrong direction, causing stem-girdling roots that choke the tree, or the roots are unable to breathe and they die.
“AirSpade tools give us the ability to remediate these issues if caught early,” said Miraval, “and reintroduce life to trees and soil that face many challenges and have been disrupted by urban development.”
Miraval first started using the AirSpade in 2014 to improve urban situations where trees need to not only live, but thrive.
“The AirSpade tool allows us to be a multidimensional tree-care and treeservice company,” he offered.
Miraval’s early use of the AirSpade
2000 and phenomenal visible results inspired the launch of a division focused on root-collar excavation work for Green Extraction Technologies, LLC.
The AirSpade 2000 has offered many opportunities for the urban-forestry firm to ensure the longevity of important resources like trees, but also to help companies working in and around existing green spaces to develop land more responsibly.
Applications
During development trees are cut down and soil compacted. After development is completed, what’s left is considered dead dirt that lacks the necessary air pockets and beneficial microbes remaining trees need to thrive. The AirSpade 2000 helps Miraval’s team re-establish a healthy soil environment through aeration and without hurting the existing root structures.
It’s also a boon when diagnosing rootsystem issues.
Green Extraction Technologies often receives calls from homeowners looking
to remove trees because they think the root system is causing damage to driveways and foundations. Rather than unnecessarily remove a tree, Miraval’s team uses the AirSpade 2000 to safely excavate soil to discover the cause of damage. If roots are the problem, they can alleviate it by cleanly cutting the roots and avoiding damage to the tree.
The AirSpade is also a very useful tool when it’s time to amend root-collar soil.
Tree nurseries sometimes have cultivating practices where the bottom of the tree or root flare is buried underground. Landscapers are often unfamiliar with the science behind tree health and plant the tree too deeply or with too much dirt or mulch on the root ball. Homeowners plant the trees too deeply, not allowing for proper aeration and water penetration. As the tree grows older it becomes weaker and damaged and eventually dies prematurely.
The AirSpade 2000 safely removes unwanted material from the root ball without damaging the tree’s veins and roots.
A proprietary, supersonic nozzle turns compressed air into a high-speed, laserlike jet moving at twice the speed of sound.
Improved safety
AirSpade 2000 is designed for safety, which Miraval appreciates.
If one of his employees were to slip and fall, the handle is equipped with technology that immediately stops the tool, preventing accident and injury. Beyond that, Miraval likes the patented nozzles that can control the volume of air released. This feature helps control noise pollution, as well as keep debris contained in a smaller area.
““The AirSpade 2000 is the most magical tool on the planet,” said Miraval.
Airspade tools help professionals maintain healthier trees with less disruption. Images: AirSpade
AIR-SPADES® are in use in arboriculture, utility, construction, and industrial applications worldwide. AIR-SPADE is the tool of choice due to its fast, non-destructive method of excavation.
Flows from 25cfm to 330cfm.
• Ideal for Bare Rooting
• Radial Trenching
2000 Series
AirSpade
See It. Believe It. Be Part of It.
Brisbane will be the heartbeat of skills excellence as it hosts the 2025 WorldSkills Australia National Championships — and you’re invited to witness the future of our workforce in action.
WORDS: TREVOR SCHWENKE, CEO, WORLDSKILLS AUSTRALIA
Over the course of three exciting, action-packed days, young champions from across the country will come together to compete, create, and showcase their skills across more than 60 skilled trades and professions. From traditional trades like bricklaying and plumbing to modern specialisations like beauty therapy and programming, this is where the best of the best will go head-to-head — not just for medals, but to benchmark their abilities against national standards and set new benchmarks of excellence in their chosen industries.
But this event is about more than just competition. It’s a celebration of possibility.
A possible future
For young people still wondering ‘what’s next?’ — those who haven’t yet found their path or are unsure what careers are out there — this event can be a game changer. Seeing others their age mastering practical, hands-on skills, using industry-standard tools and equipment, and thriving in careers that demand precision, creativity, and innovation can be incredibly inspiring. Sometimes, the simple act of seeing someone in action is enough to spark curiosity, passion, and ambition. Because
This is more than just a skills competition — it’s a living classroom and a launchpad for the future
sometimes, seeing really is believing.
Across the entire Championships, the venue will come alive with energy, ideas, and inspiration. From interactive Try’aSkill zones and hands-on demonstrations to career conversations with trainers, employers, and industry mentors, visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the many pathways skilled careers can offer.
There will also be opportunities to connect with former competitors who
Sometimes the simple act of seeing someone in action is enough to spark curiosity, passion, and ambition. Image: Pinklife/stock.adobe.com
have turned their WorldSkills experience into successful, fulfilling careers.
This is more than just a skills competition — it’s a living classroom and a launchpad for the future.
For everyone
Whether you’re a student exploring your options, a parent guiding your child, a teacher encouraging your class, or simply someone who believes in the power and potential of skills, you’re encouraged to come along. The 2025 National Championships & Skills Show provides a rare and valuable window into the trades and professions that keep Australia moving — and the talent that will lead us forward.
Come and see the passion, the precision, and the potential. Discover the power of skills. Join us as we cheer on the next generation of skilled professionals — the future builders, creators, carers, makers, and innovators of Australia.
The event will present at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre from June 12 to June 14, so you’ll need to be quick make arrangements if you haven’t already.
Find out more at worldskills.org.au/2025national-championships/.
Tougher penalties for illegal tree clearing
Under the proposed policy changes, additional enforcement powers would be given to councils and exemptions would be tightened for dead, dying and dangerous vegetation to close loopholes which have been open to abuse.
The Minns Labor Government has responded to calls from local government to help address the growing number of cases of illegal tree clearing in NSW.
An Explanation of Intended Effect (EIE) is aimed at protecting tree canopy by proposing stronger penalties for illegal tree and vegetation clearing.
Cooler Places hub
A new ‘Cooler Places’ hub has also been launched by the Minns government to help address urban heat, and the NSW Government’s Cooler Places online resource has been released to assist
Enforcement powers would be given to councils to close loopholes which have been open to abuse “ ”
The Minns Labor Government has proposed stronger penalties for illegal tree clearing. Image: Andriy/stock.adobe.com
councils, residents and developers in accessing practical guidance to incorporate cooling measures into their homes and designs.
The resource encourages cooling through low-cost and innovative measures such as water-saving features, trees, shrubs awnings and the use of materials and colours prone to absorb less heat.
In 2020, a study from Macquarie University found shade provided by urban trees can lower temperatures at ground level by up to 6°C. Similarly, research from Wollongong University in 2019 showed areas with at least 30% tree-canopy cover experience improved mental and physical health outcomes.
Working
with councils
Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Penny Sharpe, said, “NSW records some of the hottest temperatures on the planet, and we need to minimise the impacts of urban heat and build climate resilience. Tackling illegal tree clearing is an essential part of this.
“Working with councils on these proposed measures will increase the ability to crack down on illegal activity.”
Eye on the industry
Maximum effort in challenging times
At the recent Cat® Global Operator Challenge Final in Western Australia, Max Harris was crowned WA’s best operator. If he gets through the regional final in Japan, he’ll be off to the USA to challenge for the crown of the world’s best.
Is there something magical in the red dirt at Kalgoorlie?
Two years ago, Jake Myers from WA’s Goldfields was crowned the state’s best equipment operator following an outstanding show of skill at the inaugural WesTrac-hosted Caterpillar® Global Operator Challenge (GOC).
At this year’s GOC, the trophy went to Northern Star open pit supervisor Max Harris from Boulder, located in the Kalgoorlie vicinity. Max outperformed 10 other finalists in a series of three challenges, designed to test the skill, accuracy, and agility of competitors.
Taking out the title of State Champion, the 32-year-old won an all-expenses-
paid trip to Japan, where he will put his skills to the test against international operators at the Asia-Pacific Regional Final in October.
From there, only three operators will be selected to travel to Las Vegas in March next year to compete against the world’s best operators in the Caterpillar Global Operator Final held at CONEXPO 2026. Max will be hoping to do better than Jake, who finished fourth in Japan.
Even with 15 years of operating experience, Max was overwhelmed.
“I wasn’t expecting this, I came here looking to have a bit of fun and was shocked when my name got called,” he said. “That was a very tough competition
and some of the finalists are on the next level when it comes to diggers and that sort of thing.
“I look forward to representing WA over in Japan and can’t wait to give it a red-hot crack.”
And an even more exciting opportunity awaits if Max makes it to Vegas. “I’ll get married to my fiancée in an Elvis wedding ceremony,” he said.
Max’s winning time was 19 minutes and 29 seconds, followed closely by Steve Farley of Connect Resources on 22 minutes and 48 seconds, who pipped third-placed Luke Davis, an operator with the Avalon Group, by four seconds.
WesTrac WA General Manager of Construction, Cameron Callaway, said the GOC recognises and celebrates one of the key factors behind successful use of equipment: the people who operate the machines.
“I can’t emphasise that enough. It is about the person behind the controls that really delivers the value of what we do in our product,” he said.
The challenges
The WA final, held at WesTrac’s Perth Branch dig pit, involved a variety of different challenges and required
WA Global Operator Challenge winner Max Harris with his trophy. Images: Prime Creative Media
skills across three different Caterpillar machines.
“The tasks performed by competitors included digging a trench, loading and carrying material over an obstacle course, and navigating a tight course, which all had to be completed with safety front-of-mind,” Cameron said. “All of the operators, who have come from various companies across WA’s mining and construction industries, completed these tasks with remarkable precision. And as good as they all were there could only be one State Champion.
“Congratulations to Max, and on behalf of the entire team at WesTrac, we wish him every success as he heads to Japan to represent Western Australia.”
The challenges
• The Big Dig: operating a Cat 313 Next Generation excavator, contestants had to pick up and place an oil filter with a hook attached to the bucket, without knocking any barriers along the way. They then had to dig a trench using the built-in 2D Cat Grade feature.
• Navigate the Narrows: competitors had to navigate a Cat 255 Compact Track Loader through a narrow course while carrying a log, without it hitting any safety cones. Along the way, they had to knock six tennis balls off the cones and carefully steer the pole through metal gaps. At the end, the 255 had to be reversed back up to a bollard as close as possible without hitting it.
• Load and Go: driving a Cat 930 Next Generation Wheel Loader with Cat Payload technology, operators had to move material through the course to achieve a target payload into three buckets in only three passes.
Major milestones
This year the 2025-26 GOC coincides with two important dates: Caterpillar celebrates its 100-year anniversary of providing industry-leading equipment globally; and WesTrac WA commemorates 35 years as a Cat dealer.
WesTrac CEO Jarvas Croome said the event provided the perfect platform to celebrate the milestones by showcasing the latest and most advanced Cat equipment alongside the best operator talent in the industry.
“The Global Operator Challenge showcased just how far Cat machines, tools, and technology have evolved over the past century,” Jarvas said. “The challenges were designed to test the agility and accuracy of each of the
operators, all the while keeping safety at the front of mind throughout each and every task.
“We’ve also seen some of the latest and most advanced Cat technology at work, which is part of what the Global Operating Challenge is all about.”
To commemorate the occasion, a bonus challenge was held for the competitors, named the Rotorama Showcase. Operators had to use a Cat 308 Mini Excavator with a tiltrotator to pick up five tyres from different spots and place them in a neat and orderly stack.
The winner of the event was Cormack Catterson of PCH Civil, who impressed all by manipulating the grapple hook expertly to line up his tyres in the
GOC staff assess the alignment of tyres for the Rotorama Showcase challenge.
Eye on the industry
quickest time, and winning a limitededition model of a Caterpillar Twenty… the very first model to be ‘all-Caterpillar’ from the ground up.
Indeed, Cormack’s presence at the GOC was a historic one. From a field of about 70 preliminary finalists, he and brother Connor made the final cut, making them the first team of siblings to make it to the last round.
“I love the excavation stuff, using the big diggers and the track machines,” Cormack said.
The younger of the two, he said he enjoyed the friendly but competitive rivalry with Connor in the pits.
The Cattersons came from an earthmoving background in Ireland, where their father was a building contractor.
“He had his own machines and from a very young age, we grew up around our own diggers and we learned to love them. Our youngest memories are of us being on machines, even when we were barely walking,” he said.
Coming to Australia in 2018, Cormack said they found the terrain obviously
A challenger trying to align his stack of tyres using a tiltrotator attached to a Cat 308 mini excavator.
The finalists (from left): Luke Davis, Maikol Taseski, Samuel Kersten, Max Harris, Nick Duma, Aaron Nitschke, Chris Whild, Steve Farley, Cormac Catterson, Connor Catterson, and Ben Hayward.
different to the ground conditions in the Emerald Isle.
“We work in the Pilbara where it’s obviously a lot drier and the soils harder,” he said, “but the machines are incredible and some of the conditions we put them through are unbelievable.”
The heat is on
On behalf of the WesTrac team, Jarvas thanked the participating operators, and the businesses involved, for bringing a vibrant energy and atmosphere to the WA Final.
“We are exceptionally proud to have hosted this renowned industry event for the second time at our Perth Branch and we look forward to cheering on our State Champion at the Asia-Pacific Regional Final,” he said.
The Global Operator Challenge was launched by Caterpillar in 2019 with WesTrac participating for the first time in 2022.
Learn more about the Global Operator Challenge by visiting cat.com/operatorchallenge.
The WA final was held at WesTrac’s Perth Branch dig pit.
Understanding the subordinated tree by illustrating the unsubordinated human
Cassian Humphreys has some thoughts on mimicking environmental subordination.
When I use the word ‘arboriculture’ I do so with intent: ‘arbor-I-culture’. I emphasise the ‘I’, the ‘tree-I culture’ as a reflection of the fact that to culture trees we have to be in service to them. This article considers the optimal tree and the most integrated human being in illustration.
Ideals
Though human credentials can give guidance and perspective, they also get in the way, especially when educational frameworks promote closed thinking or a righteous viewpoint. Being righteous has us fixed like a tree’s apoplast, blocking the depth of integration
symbolised by the tree’s dynamic symplast and an open human mind. I describe human dynamism as stillness, sensitivity, creativity, compassion, discernment, critical thinking, courage, the ability to surrender and to take a stand for the truth. To give perspective on the optimal
WORDS AND IMAGES: CASSIAN HUMPHREYS
In the same way trees unite heaven and earth, so do we.
human being I pose these traits as being Christ-like qualities, though I leave religion to the masses.
Education that teaches dualistic thinking (school-age and university education are prime examples) reinforces a fixed mental structure, often described as the ego – a fixed form of identity. This is defined in spiritual science as the self-idolising mind. The ego is led by the illusion of comfort. The greatest curse of our human times is being enslaved to the idea of comfort, especially when the experience of getting there is the opposite. Subordination to governing bodies that nurture life on Earth would be very different.
Self-idolisation is a phenomenon promoted and popularised in the mainstream. Proponents are the financial elite, the bankers, politicians, scientists, teachers and mass media. Those who promote the propaganda
Fig: 2. This 127-year-old Kurrajong – Brachychiton populneus – was planted in 1898 in Queanbeyan, NSW. The site is on an old creek system, hence the tree’s health. Heavily diversified at its crown periphery, with optimal taper and internal canopy, it has the hallmarks of an environmentally subordinated tree.
Fig 3. Nutrient cycles move through inorganic and organic phases with plants as the vector. Image: from Modern Arboriculture by Dr Alex Shigo.
Technical feature
fail to know the truth of themselves and encourage the same in us. In this preoccupation ego is celebrated as the new god, with artificial intelligence – AI – its latest protégé.
I believe AI seeks to give rise to its own body, as if hijacking ours is not enough.
Science
Although science can be a gift to seeing, unless we subordinate our sense of grandeur we are blind to seeing the real magic: creation.
In the obscuring of our view of natural intelligence we are imprisoned like those inert woody plant cells of the apoplast. Natural intelligence has been directing life on Earth from the first singlecelled organism through to the highly advanced body of cells called Homo sapiens – us.
As a 25-year arboricultural writer I have been making sense of trees based on patterns or cycles that repeat, as well as observations in light of the human record. My drive has always been to see for myself first, to listen to the interpretations of others second, and then respond. This interest has largely involved interpreting Australian trees
in reflection of the British, American, German and Australian science I grew up with.
This article is a musing on the human condition as a means to illustrate the tree. This is where I believe science and creation converge, as does the tree that unites Heaven (atmosphere) and Earth (rhizosphere) via its body, connected to those interfaces by its very cells.
I see Shigo’s figure-8 model of the tree as a pump (ref: Fig 3) as the perfect analogy of the cycle of life on Earth, with the plant-pump as its beating heart. This analogy embodies us too, with our earth-bodies made of the same elements found in nature. In the same way the trees unite Heaven and Earth, so do we.
Tree subordination
So with nature as the guide, let’s consider how trees are subordinated. Trees as forest organisms are designed to occupy air space, to share resources, reproduce and support other life-forms. Should they overextend and break, their bodies are surrendered back to the nutrient-cycle we call life.
Forest trees fail young when
overstretched in body or resources. Elongation, or a lack of taper driven by light competition, is a primary cause of structural failure. This largely occurs between the nodes. Internodal failure is both triggered by the environment as it is mitigated by it.
Greater understanding on the form of the optimal tree came with recognising field-pasture trees (ref. Fay), but also the environment that subordinates them (ref. Lloyd-Jones). These trees are better tapered with multiple inner canopies, and through form they collectively attenuate or dampen force flow. Subordination as realised via the study of bonsai occurs at the level of the twig, the pinching out of terminal buds creating diversification (forking), and multiple peripheral losses via the buds keeps trees hedged at the periphery with shorter nodes.
On landscape trees we can see this when we study wind-pruned coastal trees. As with buds subjected to frost, insect and bird activity, woody plants are naturally subordinated. When you take a large tree with an elongated woody crown and give it a diversified or hedged outer edge, in time, with repetition (what we can call ‘training’), you get an unbroken, subordinated tree, ideal for urban environments where people congregate. A tree which is diversified at its periphery produces a smaller leaf size, grows internal canopies, and improves on taper, while sustaining optimal energy production and outliving its elongated forest cousin that breaks. When the subordination occurs at the twig the tree effortlessly compartmentalises the damage (ref: Shigo).
Though we only see the macro failures, overlooking the micro, the environmental subordination of trees for posterity is one of nature’s success stories. The longest-lived specimens, naturally subordinated with full crowns, I love to call ‘alpharised’.
Best cuts are smaller
Crown-reduction, as recognised in old-school arboriculture, involves cuts of 8.0cm or more. Because of the loss of a large surface area of leaf/ symplastic tissue and the oxygenation of heartwood, tree decline accelerates exponentially. Hence the bad media on heavy crown reductions.
Light reductions that target buds, twigs and the smallest-diameter
Fig: 4. The Tree Of Knowledge. An apt name for us concerning this alpha-specimen.
branches keep cuts in dynamic tissue below the 3.0cm mark. Ideally no more than two per cent to three per cent of a tree’s original height or spread is removed when subordinating a tree, with a maximum leaf surface area sustained for photosynthesis. Volume reductions are driven by tree-veteranisation, or pre-existing tension and break-out failures. Cuts into symplastic tissue can be made between nodes where the wind naturally hedges small-diameter elongations.
Volume reductions
As climbers with hand tools, firststage volume reductions are closer to the five-per-cent mark, as to work safely we can’t work much further out on the periphery unless we’re using EWPs. Climbers skilled with pole saws fare better. Subsequent doses can be less as woody-taper and safe-climber accessibility improves. The first five-
per-cent reduction is the heaviest, with pruning cycles being two to five years, extending to as few as three doses to achieve subordination. This strategy is great for training non-veteran trees to remain that way, as well as keeping veteran trees green while sustaining habitat – this of course suits the ancients, too.
The heaviest volume reduction I’ve done was 10% in crown-height. That’s a maximum 4.5cm to 5.0cm per cut (I don’t like to cut any larger). This was on a veteran hardwood with hollows up to 50cm in diameter and wall thicknesses down to 15%.
Hope for the future
Artful subordination may be in part genetic, but appears to be mostly an environmental influence.
We all know what the unsubordinated human looks like. I pray humanity can look to the alpha trees for guidance.
When the subordination occurs at the twig the tree effortlessly compartmentalises the damage “ ”
Fig: 5. A Red Cedar (Toona ciliata) demonstrating a patch of naturally diversified outer canopy. I suggest this was caused by Red Cedar tip moth.
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