Australian Forests & Timber - May 2019

May 2019

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• INSIDE: Federal Election: Rhetoric or Reality?

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Federal Election

Focus on Forestry Industry

How the main political parties see the forestry and timber industry Rhetoric or reality?

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t’s getting near election time and there are a number of knowns and unknowns facing everyone in the forestry and timber industry when it comes to the political front, so, Australian Forests & Timber News put a comprehensive questionnaire to the major parties for comment.

The 2019 Australian federal election will be held on Saturday 18 May to elect members of the 46th Parliament of Australia. You can vote early either in person or by post if on election day you: are outside the electorate where you are enrolled to vote: are more than 8km from a polling place. More details are available through the Australian Electoral Commission.

Like most elections, the outcome of this ballot will be crucial for Australia’s future. www.timberbiz.com.au

Our industry plays a major role in the overall scheme of things (economically, socially, sustainably) and we must rely heavily on the ultimate decision-makers to ensure a strong future for us all.

There was little surprise in the response from the Greens, they expressed their stand against native forest logging and also RFAs. The Liberal Nationals (Coalition) responded directly to the questionnaire.

Labor chose to opt instead for an overview.

Hopefully we’ve covered as many bases as possible to ensure you are fully informed on where the main parties stand on the forest and timber industry.

It’s up to you decide whether it’s rhetoric or reality.

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Federal Election

MAY 2019 Issue 3 Vol. 28 Established 1991 Federal Election 3-7 In the News 8-14 Research 15 Bio 16-17 Sawmilling Profile 18 Milestone 19 Kilns 20 Forwarders 21-29 Guest Columnist 30 Haulage 32-33 Forest Machines 34 Log Loaders 36-37 Steep Slope Logging 38-40 Publisher and Chief Executive: Hartley Higgins General Manager: Robyn Haworth Editor: John Hudswell j.hudswell@ryanmediapl.com.au (08) 7127 6370 Advertising and Classifieds: Gavin de Almeida g.dealmeida@ryanmediapl.com.au Adelaide Office (08) 8369 9517 Production: Peter Frezzini & NEM Creative Team Subscriptions: subs@forestsandtimber.com.au Adelaide Office (08) 8369 9532 Subcription rates One-year (8 editions) $55 Two-years (16 editions) $95 Accounts: Adelaide Office (08) 8369 9514 Postal Address: 630 Regency Road, Broadview South Australia 5083 Phone: (08) 8369 9555 Fax: (08) 8369 9501 Melbourne Office: Suite 2262, 442 Auburn Rd, Hawthorn VIC 3122 Phone: (03) 9810 3262 Website www.timberbiz.com.au Printed by Lane Print, Adelaide, SA Conditions The opinions expressed in Australian Forests & Timber News are not necessarily the opinions of or endorsed by the editor or publisher unless otherwise stated. All articles submitted for publication become the property of the publisher.

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How the main political parties see the forestry and timber industry Continued from Page 3

The Greens Response There was little surprise in the response from the Greens, they expressed their stand against native forest logging and also RFAs. Although Senator Janet Rice is the Greens spokesperson on forests, Policy & Parliamentary Adviser Simon Bakker was empowered to provide a response, and listed the Greens forest policy for the 2019 elections, under the banner End Deforestation In

Australia, that says: “It’s time to end the destructive logging and deforestation that is destroying our wildlife habitat, carbon stores, regional landscapes and water catchments. The Greens will ensure long-term sustainability of regional jobs and local wood products industries, by completing the transition to 100% plantation-sourced timber and fibre and by protecting the natu-

ral resources that our precious endangered wildlife, local tourism and sustainable agriculture rely on.”

The Greens will scrap the Regional Forest Agreements and end logging of native forests on public land; End broadscale land-clearing of forests and woodlands on private land to protect our precious places, animals and carbon stores that are being destroyed;

Unlock jobs and community benefit from environmental restoration and tourism and recreation; Invest $20m in research and development to support a long-term wood and fibre products industry from plantations (which already account for 88% of our wood products), other fibre sources such as hemp, and farm forestry.

The Liberal Nationals (Coalition) Response The Liberal Nationals (Coalition) responded directly to the questionnaire.

How and when will be funding be allocated to ensure the National Forest Industry Plan is implemented fully?

The Morrison Government is committed to delivering a billion new plantation trees over a decade to grow our forest industries and create jobs.

The 2018 Budget allocated $20 million over four years to 202122 to support the implementation of the National Forest Industries Plan and to bring certainty to the forestry sector. Funding over the forward years is also set out in the 2019 Budget. Our funding allocations include Nine Regional Forestry Hubs including four pilot hubs to receive an initial $250,000 during their first year.

Each Pilot Hub can then access up to four years funding overall of $250,000 per annum subject to reaching contractual milestones. At least two additional centres of the National Institute for Forest Products Innovation (NIFPI) will also be delivered in addition to the existing nodes in Tasmania and South Australia. This will be subject to fund matching of $2 million over three years from relevant State Governments - helping to progress greater productivity from our forests.

Will you guarantee the sanctity of the new 20-

year old Regional Forest Agreements? Will you take any action against a State government that breaks an RFA, given they are joint commonwealth-state agreements?

Only the Morrison Government supports the native forestry sector and is committed to the policy of 20 year rolling extension of all the Regional Forestry Agreements (RFAs) as the best mechanism for balancing the environmental, economic and social demands on our native forests, and to provide long term certainty for the forest industry. We have delivered new RFAs in Tasmania, New South Wales and, most recently, in Western Australia and we are the only party with a true commitment to extending RFAs further. RFAs include five-yearly review and the Commonwealth also retains the ability to audit an RFA State where requirements are not complied with.

Specifically, do you support the new RFAs in Victoria?

Our record in government has been to deliver renewed 20 year rolling agreements with Tasmania, New South Wales and Western Australia and we are in ongoing renewal discussions with the Victorian Government to renew the Victorian RFAs.

Should the RFAs, particularly in Victoria, take a landscape

approach to forest harvesting so that the industry and forest fauna can exist together?

The Morrison Government believes that the ideal form of management of our forests would be to take a landscape approach with harvests managed within RFA regions integrated.

RFAs are long-term agreements negotiated between the Commonwealth and state governments that strike a balance between the environmental, social and economic uses of our forests, including supporting the forest industries. Unfortunately, State-based measurement of fauna and flora have concentrated on RFA areas (particularly in Victoria) which has given a distorted perspective of fauna and flora populations rather than across the whole estate including national parks. Through the RFAs, a comprehensive, adequate and representative (CAR) reserve system for forests based on nationally agreed reserve criteria was established, to protect and manage Australia’s ecosystems. Since the signing of the RFAs more than 4 million hectares of forests have been added to the CAR reserve system across RFA States – an increase of 74 per cent. In Victoria, this is an increase of 64 per cent.

vides the framework for industry to plant the right species in the right places at the right scale, and we are developing the regional forestry hubs with financial support to ensure this goal is supported effectively.

What specific incentives should be given to farmers to plant trees?

How much money are you prepared to allocate to plantation development?

The Coalition already has a variety of incentives for farmers to plant trees on their farms, including for ongoing biodiversity, private native forests and for plantations. These include: The Smart Farming program grants; Our new $30 million pilot Agriculture Biodiversity Stewardship Program that would see farmers receive incentives for projects that boost biodiversity and also, if appropriate, absorb carbon.

Projects such as maintaining or enhancing remnant forest, regeneration of gullies or waterways, or mixed species native tree plantings could be examples of projects; Access to incentives under the current Farm forestry methodology under Carbon Farming Initiative for specific access to the emissions reduction fund; and Supporting development of further methodologies to support a combination of: storage, harvesting, and shelter.

The Morrison Government’s $20 million plan pro-

How important are payments for carbon abatement to

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 www.timberbiz.com.a

Federal Election encourage farmers to plant trees?

Individuals and farmers make their own decisions and reasons for planting trees on their properties, whether for biodiversity, shelter for animals or crops, or for forestry, or a combination. Sometimes incentives to plant trees – including for carbon abatement, can provide extra encouragement to undertake farm forestry whether as a shelter belt, harvest, or both. Our Plan is looking at how best to achieve that, including for harvested forests, and bundling the benefits, help to ensure we reach our goal of planting a billion new trees over the next decade. Plantings for long term biodiversity and forestry planting not intended for harvest are able to access the Carbon Farming Initiative and also our Government’s new Agriculture Biodiversity Stewardship Program.

Will your greenhouse policy emphasise that carbon is stored in timber products, be they from native forest or plantations?

The Morrison Government recognises the importance of

carbon stored in timber products. The land sector—land use, land use change and forestry—is an important sector for Australia in how we account towards our international emissions reductions targets, and the sector is currently a modest carbon sink nationwide. At the federal level, the Morrison Government’s Emissions Reduction Fund is the key mechanism for recognising the value of the land sector in removing greenhouse gases from the atmosphere, and to date 125.7 million tonnes of abatement has been contracted, valued at around $1.5 billion.

There are two methods currently available for forest products specifically, including the Plantation Forestry and New Farm Forestry Plantations methods. To date, 15 projects have been registered under these two methods across Tasmania, Victoria, Western Australia, Queensland and the ACT.

Will forest biomass be encouraged and recognised as renewable energy as it is in Europe?

Forest biomass already qualifies as renewable energy following changes to regulations

by the Morrison Government.

Biomass is one of the technologies included in our underwriting new generation program and will be considered as part of our Northern Australia energy business case.

Similarly, will renewable fuels made from forest biomass be recognised as a renewable product?

Forest biomass already qualifies as renewable energy following changes to regulations by the Morrison Government. Biomass is one of the technologies included in our underwriting new generation program and will be considered as part of our Northern Australia energy business case.

How important is a sustainable native forest industry for fire protection, given that the industry pays for the roads that provide access to the forest, and logging contractors and forestry staff play a big role in fighting fires?

Effective forest management is necessary across our forest estate in accordance with the principles of whole of land-

scape measurement. Native forestry operations are absolutely critical to fire protection and we have seen the greater impact of bushfires after forest lock ups. Our native forests are well managed under the RFAs and the industry and staff who work in this industry are fundamental to ensuring any fires in our native forests are minimised, with staff monitoring and easy access to help manage and contain fire. The Morrison Government also continues to invest in mechanical fuel load trials in our forests, and the results (due mid-2019) will inform us of this method in fighting against fire.

Do you feel there should be incentives to value-add in Australia?

Ultimately the market will dictate the demand and where value-adding is best undertaken. The Morrison Government believes that where we do have a role is in investment in new innovative research through our National Institute of Forest Product Innovation (NIFPI).

By developing further opportunities in new technologies such as CLT, timber-based alternatives to petrochemicals and bio

pellets, the market will be wellplaced to invest in value-adding industry and create more jobs here in Australia.

Will you allocate more finances to increase research capability?

The Coalition took to the previous election a promise to establish a National Institute for Forest Products Innovation (NIFPI), which has already funded new forestry-related research through the nodes in Mt Gambier and Launceston.

The NIFPI has delivered $2 million over three years, with matched funding from relevant State Governments and additional investment from industry. As part of our $20 million National Forest Industries Plan the Morrison Government is developing at least two further NIFPISs, seeking fund matching of $2 million over three years from a corresponding State Government, and then co–investment with industry.

We also invest significantly in forestry research by matching industry levy funding contributions through Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA).

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Federal Election

How the main political parties see the forestry and timber industry Continued from Page 5

Labor Party Response Labor chose to opt instead for an overview.

Labor believes that it is time to bring together federal and State Government leaders and key stakeholders in our forestry industry for a national summit. The forestry industry has waited long enough for a National Forestry and Forest Products Industry Strategic Plan and meaningful action from the current Coalition Government.

The Turnbull Government committed $20million dollars to develop a National Strategic Plan in 2017 and the Morrison Government has refused to provide full details about how the $20 million will actually be spent.

The Morrison Government’s National Forestry Industry Plan lacks full detail on how the actual plan will be achieved or how much funding will actually be needed for the industry to meet its full potential.

Labor will continue to work with State Government leaders and key stakeholders to determine what additional funding may be required to fully

implement a National Forestry and Forest Products Industry Strategic Plan.

Labor recognises industry is seeking to grow new plantation levels by an additional 400,000ha; removing barriers to forestry’s participation in the carbon market will stimulate greater investment in the sector and grow future forestry jobs. However, new plantation establishment will be a means to an end and not an end in itself under a Labor government. A more strategic policy approach than exhibited in the past will result in the encouragement and stimulation of the planting of more of the right trees (from a species perspective), in the right places and locales, under the right management regimes necessary in order to maximise the benefits to local communities.

Labor has been working closely with the forestry sector and unions to understand the barriers preventing it reaching its full potential.

Key ask The key ask from the Forestry industry is for the water

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rule restrictions to be removed.

Labor has made it clear that a future Labor Government would remove the water rule.

Mr Hampton said “AFPA has been seeking equal footing for production trees with environmental trees in carbon reduction policy for more than three years.

It is gratifying that we are finally seeing some common sense applied to this matter but deeply disappointing that it is coming in the dying days of this Parliament when there is no time left for the Morrison Government to table the regulation and have the anomaly corrected.

“AFPA will be making this our number one issue in the coming election campaign and will be seeking unequivocal commitments from candidates and Parties particularly in forestry focused seats.

Labor supports the social, economic and environmental benefits that flow from the sustainable management of our native forests and supports Regional Forest Agreements (RFA) that are based on the best available science as it applies to the proper consideration of social, economic and environmental factors. Labor supports proper, independent and full scientific assessments of RFA outcomes as part of the agreed framework. This includes all relevant science, including climate science and impacts on threatened species.

Labor is committed to ecologically sustainable development within the forest industry.

Building community understanding of the role and social and economic contribution of environmentally sustainable forestry industries including and expanding plantation sector is vital.

Labor supports a goal of adding a billion new plantation trees including by: Working with industry, unions and state governments to allow Regional Forestry Hubs to maximise their capacity to accommodate plantation expansion;

Reviewing other legislation, policies and processes that may be unintentionally restricting plantation expansion; Removing the water rule in both the plantations and farm forestry in relation to forestry’s interaction with Carbon Farming Initiative methodologies.

Wood building products provide a unique opportunity to displace materials that are more carbon emission intensive to produce, to supply industries like construction.

Rather than ignoring it, a Labor Government will take seriously the long standing position of industry, that the Australian Government develops procurement policies that support the Australian forest industry and its broader contribution to the Australian economy.

Local projects, local jobs Labor has unveiled a detail ‘Local Projects, Local Jobs policy’. The policy will require government departments to properly consider the economic benefit that local businesses provide and to work with local firms to ensure they can benefit from government contracts. In addition, Labor will ensure that more public and large private projects will be required to put plans in place to give Australian firms a chance to win work on major projects.

Good procurement choices should always seek to achieve value for money, which cannot be decided solely by comparing purchase prices. Any sensible procurement decision will take into account the impact of the decision on communities and the broader economy. Under Labor’s policy, procurement officials will be required to consider relevant financial and non-financial costs and benefits of the procurement, including commitment to local or regional markets and a more competitive supplier base.

Labor will lead on sustainability and ethical procurement practices including by requiring all Government Departments and Agencies when procuring from the Whole of Government Stationery and Office Supply Arrangement to factor in their value for money considerations that purchasing 100% Recycled Australian made copy paper provides distinct environmental, social and economic benefits including by participating in closed loop recycling.

Research and development Labor believes that Australia today is competing in a global innovation race. To secure our future prosperity, Labor has established a clear aspiration that the nation will devote 3 per cent of GDP to research and development by the end of the next decade.

To create jobs in an increasingly competitive and technologically advanced global economy we must invest in the drivers of economic growth by putting innovation, science and research at the heart of industry policy.

We must foster a culture of entrepreneurialism across the economy, from start-ups to established businesses and within the public sector.

Labor will reinvest in the capabilities of Australian firms to attract new investments through a suite of measures, including through sectoral approaches. A $1 billion Advanced Manufacturing Future Fund will support innovative Australian manufacturing firms seeking to modernise and move into high-value production, making them globally competitive. The Fund will address the finance gap for small and medium enterprises, by partnering with private finance to reduce the perceived risk in innovative projects, making them more attractive to lenders of private capital.

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 www.timberbiz.com.a

Federal Election Native forestry harvesting will not end: Coalition

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he Coalition has categorically ruled out ending native forestry harvesting in any State or Territory, including Victoria, unlike the Victorian Labor Government who clearly have an agenda to do just that.

The Coalition’s policy for forestry is to ensure both a strong plantation and native forests sectors, including in Victoria into the future.

As stated in our ten year National Forest Industries Plan, the native forest sector will remain an important part of the industry going forward, especially in regional Australia, with special timbers to be continued to be harvested from appropriate regions.

We remain committed to the 20 year rolling extension of all the Regional Forestry Agreements (RFAs), including the current negotiations with the Western Australia and Victorian Governments, as the best mechanism for delivering environmental, economic (including the forest industry) and social demands on our native forests.

These include an ongoing five-yearly review of the RFA’s performance, including consultation with stakeholders and utilising the latest science.

Strong support: For South West Slopes Regional Forestry Hub Deputy Prime Minister and Leader of the Nationals, Michael McCormack, has backed a Regional Forestry Hub in the South West Slopes (Tumut-Tumbarumba region) of southern NSW. In a letter released by the South West Slopes’ Softwoods Working Group (SWG), the Deputy Prime Minister expresses his ‘strong support’ for establishing a Regional Forestry Hub. He goes on to say there is ‘a compelling case for establishing a hub’ and commends the SWG push for the region to be a ‘pilot hub’.

In February, Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced the launch of nine Regional Forestry Hubs, but said four would happen immediately and five would be delayed until 2020.

Tumut-Tumbarumba was in that list of delayed announcements.

Forestry has friends in SA Parliament

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iberal, Labor and plantation-based. The first Mt Gambier) and the high Independent parlia- plantation in Australia was rainfall strip stretching from mentarians gathered planted in South Australia: the the Mt Lofty Ranges, through in Adelaide with representa- Bundaleer Forest, near James- the Fleurieu Peninsula to Kangaroo Island. tives of forest industries Some SA timber is to celebrate the launch exported and much is of a cross-party parlialocally-processed at mentary friends’ group. some of the most soCo-chairs Nick Mcphisticated mills in AusBride (Member for tralia. The industry emMacKillop) and Shadploys around 130,000 ow Forestry Minister people directly and inClare Scriven MLC directly, and generates welcomed guests to the $2.8 billion annually for timber-lined hall that the State’s economy. served as the South KIPT was representAustralia Parliament’s ed by directors Greg first meeting chamber. ■■ Forestry has friends in South Australian Boulton AM, John SerBoth co-chairs have a Parilament. geant and Keith Lamb, long history with our town, which still produces and by Company Secretary industry. and CFO Vicky Allinson. The Forestry in South Australia pine logs for local sawmills.

Today, Bundaleer is a north- event was organised by the SA has an even longer history, and it differs from the industry in ern outlier. Forestry is centred Chapter of the Australian Forother states because it is 100% on the Green Triangle (around est Products Association.

Politicians urged:

Major forestry area hub should be fast-tracked, say candidates

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he Liberal and National Party candidates vying for the federal electorate of EdenMonaro in NSW, have demanded that the Tumut-Tumbarumba region be included in the initial list of ‘pilot’ Regional Forestry Hubs.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced in February that nine new Regional Forestry Hubs would be created with $12.5 million in funding, but limited the initial rollout to

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four ‘pilot’ Hubs: north west Tasmania, south west Western Australia, the north coast of NSW and the Green Triangle which overlaps South Australia and Victoria.

The Tumut-Tumbarumba area, called the ‘South West Slopes’, is listed as one of five named Hubs delayed until 2020 for rollout, despite it being one of Australia’s largest forestry regions in terms of employment and wealth generation.

According to the Tumut and Adelong Times, the Liberal candidate for Eden-Monaro, Fiona Kotvojs said she is working with industry and the Morrison Government to have the planned Tumut-Tumbarumba Hub brought forward.

The Tumut and Adelong Times also reported National Party candidate Sophie Wade saying, “I am already working towards getting the South West Slopes included as one of the pilot Hubs.”

Support forest industries to keep economy strong New polling conducted for the Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) in the federal Tasmanian electorate of Bass, shows voters overwhelmingly believe a strong forest industries sector is important to Tasmania’s economy.

The uComms poll of 847 voters in the northern Tasmanian electorate found 8 in 10 voters regard forest industries as either important or very important to the economy.

The poll also found a clear majority (more than 60 per cent) of voters believe Tasmania should have a native timber industry for the production of quality timber products.

“This survey in a key

electorate of national focus, demonstrates that voters want political parties and candidates to support forest industries,” said Ross Hampton, Chief Executive Officer of AFPA. “Thousands of people across Tasmania draw a living from these renewable and sustainable industries and it’s important that their futures are secured by commitments from federal political parties.”

“This election, the 120,000 Australians who work across the full value chain of forest industries will be looking closely at which political parties offer the best plan for their futures,” Mr Hampton said.

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 7

In the news

Victorian Government accused of “unconscionable behaviour” towards timber communities

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he Victorian Government’s failure to come clean on its Timber Release Plan has met with condemnation from many quarters.

The Government’s actions (or should that be in-action; maybe it’s a bit like the now two-year old State Government pledge of $110 million for plantation forestry development in Gippsland) have been variously described as unconscionable; of having a detrimental impact on the mental health of those affected; of turning its back on established practice; and of appeasing trendy ideological opposition to forestry.

Mark Poynter, a Fellow of the Institute of Foresters of Australia (IFA) in Victoria, vented his feelings … “In the absence of any explanation, it can only be assumed that the Andrews Government is happy to effectively cripple the livelihoods of several thousand rural Victorians to appease trendy, ideological opposition to forestry that has been shaped by decades of misinformation. The Andrews’ Government’s actions

“The industry is deeply suspicious that the behaviour of the Victorian Government suggests that ‘modernising’ means that the Victorian Government actually is planning a reduction of area available for harvest,” he said.

are at odds with the Premier’s from their Government. Na- a detrimental impact on the claim that the government’s tive contractors in Gippsland mental health of those affected. position is not to be playing are struggling to meet their “The Andrews Government politics with these industries, contracted supply, have no has turned its back on these these jobs and these commu- money to pay the bills, and timber workers. This has nities.” many are reporting a grow- gone on for too long. More The Australian Forthan 1600 directly afest Contractors Asfected regional work“The industry is deeply sociation (AFCA), ers are at desperathe Victorian Assosuspicious that the behaviour tion point,” he said. ciation of Forest InCEO Ross of the Victorian Government AFPA dustries (VAFI) and Hampton said failure the Australian Forest suggests that ‘modernising’ of the release of the Products Association timber plan is part means that the Victorian (AFPA), have united of a larger wrong in an unprecedented the Government is Government actually is show of force to deto replanning a reduction of area committing liver the strongest gional workers and of messages possiregional communities. available for harvest” ble to the Victorian “The Government Labor Government. claims it is in the proAFCA CEO, Stacey Gardiner, ing sense of despair,” she said. cess of modernising Regional called the Victorian Govern- VAFI CEO Tim John- Forest Agreements, which ment’s actions “completely ston said politics should are the agreed management unconscionable behaviour”. play no part in the secu- processes used across Ausrity of people’s well-being. tralia to manage the environEmpty promises “However, for months now mental, social and economic “The Timber Release Plan that’s what the Andrews Gov- balance in using our precious was due a year ago. The Gov- ernment has been doing to forest resources,” he said. ernment appears to be drip hard-working Victorians in “Regional Forest Agreements feeding snippets of informa- the native timber industry. The have been signed between tion to the media promising Government’s ongoing failure the Commonwealth Governthat some release is due some- to approve a new Timber Re- ment and the State Governtime. This is playing with lease Plan is on the verge of ments of NSW, Tasmania the lives of Victorians who bringing the hardwood indus- and the Labor Government of expect more care and concern try to a standstill and is having Western Australia.

“This would be ridiculous as only six per cent of the Victorian timber estate is available and suitable for harvest now and any further reduction beyond the thousands of hectares which have been added to national parks would potentially drive the industry and the regional jobs which rely on it into collapse.

“State and Federal Governments of all persuasions have understood for 20 years that Regional Forest Agreements provide certainty that environmental values will be maintained, and timber processing allowed at a very modest scale. The Victorian Andrews Government may be the first to turn its back on that established practice and science,” Mr Hampton said.

■■ Mark Poynter.

■■ Stacey Gardiner.

■■ Ross Hampton.

■■ Tim Johnston.

Driven to collapse

Harvest area reduced The exceptionally-long-overdue release of Victoria’s Timber Release Plan (TRP) amendment following the government’s release of the Allocation Order (AO) has been made. This edition of Australian Forests & Timber News was on its way to the printer when this news broke but we needed to keep you informed of the latest developments.

The government also announced a new plantation program across Gippsland from this winter, including hundreds of hectares of crown land in the Latrobe Valley.

Again, the latest news has been met with cynicism, criticism and consternation with the industry demanding immediate answers regarding when the new TRP will 8

be put in to operation on the ground. Further delays will cause further distress and uncertainty.

A statement by the Victorian Association of Forest Industries (VAFI) said the new AO reduced the total harvestable area in State forests by 5,000 hectares.

“This raises questions about VicForests’ ability to meet its existing contracts. Further reductions in timber supply from state forests only serves to undermine already vulnerable businesses,” VAFI said.

The statement went on to point out that the proposed new plantations the government announced cannot supply the high-quality hardwood timber that has been removed from State forest supply.

“The Victorian forest industry needs a long-term plan that integrates native and plantation timber as equally important parts of the overall resource mix, and the state government needs to provide its future forest policy intentions immediately.

“Where does that leave the long-term future of the timber industry and the thousands of workers dependent on it?

“The timber industry collectively is sick of the games,” VAFI said.

We will be looking at this issue in depth in the June edition and seeking comment from all quarters. In the meantime, the above article still holds true. – Ed.

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 www.timberbiz.com.a

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In the news

Nominations sought for coveted award

N

ominations are sought for this year’s coveted Richard Stanton Memorial Award for Excellence in Forest Management or Chain of Custody. This is the fifth year of the award which pays tribute to a man who devoted his life to sustainable forest management in Australia and internationally.

Richard (pictured) was CEO and national secretary of Australian Forestry Standard Ltd (now Responsible Wood), and had a number of key roles with the Australian Plantation Products and Paper Industry Council, the Australian Paper Industry Council, Plantation Timber Association of Australia, National Association of Forest Industries, and State Forests NSW. Nominations for the award are open to individuals who have contributed significantly to either forest management or chain-of-custody certification under the Responsible Wood certification program.

■■ Richard Stanton

The award nominees will be those who have contributed to sustainable forest management under AS4708 or chain of custody under AS4707.

The award is open to, but not restricted to, forest owners and managers; chain-ofcustody certificate holders; staff of certification bodies; forest scientists and researchers; and designers of products manufactured from sustainable timber.

The award also carries a

$2000 bursary prize.

Applicants for the award will have demonstrated excellence in the following areas: A significant and valuable contribution to sustainability.

Innovation, improvement or excellence in Forest Management or Chain of Custody Certification.

A strong commitment to the Responsible Wood Certification Scheme and Sustainable Forest Management.

Innovation and Improvement in the promotion and marketing of Responsible Wood Certified Products Nominations for the award close 4 October 4, and the selection of the successful applicant will be made by the Responsible Wood Marketing Committee and announced at the Annual General Meeting in Mount Gambier on 22 October .

Nominations can be forwarded to: Responsible Wood, PO Box 786, New Farm, Qld 4005. Email sdorries@responsiblewood.org.au

Previous award winners have been: 2015 Dr Marie Yee, Senior Conservation Planner, Sustainable Timber Tasmania, who helped develop a system of forest management planning which provides a high level of certainty that biodiversity is being managed effectively within the forest at a landscape scale.

2016 Mark Leech, a driving force behind Fine Timber Tasmania, a sustainability-focused, non-profit association which represents the specialty timber supply chain – growers, processors, design makers and retailers – and promotes Responsible Wood certified products. For more than a decade, Mr Leech has played a pivotal role in the development and strong uptake of RW chain-of-custody certification in Tasmania.

2017 Lou Coutts, External Relations Manager, HVP Plantations, based at Shelley, Victoria, who is moving plantation forestry into new ground for stakeholder management, public access to plantation land, interactive websites, on-line inductions and social media.

2018 Liliane Kao, Digital Marketing Specialist, Hyne Timber who developed unique Building Information Model (BIM) content for glue laminated timber which captured and electronically communicated sustainability data available through Chain of Custody certification into the BIM environment.

Playing possum with the real figures Thousands of Leadbeater’s Possums, the species which is officially listed as facing extinction, have now been found in the Central Highlands forests of Gippsland, the latest surveys show. A total of 688 known Leadbeater’s Possum colonies have been detected, according to the latest figures from November 2018 on VicForests’ website. This figure includes the pre-existing 153 colonies estimated to have existed by 2014, and the 535 colonies that have been found in the more extensive and systematic State Government surveys since then.

Each colony represents between three and 11 individual possums. The surveys are conducted by VicForests, the Department of the Environment (DELWP), the Arthur Rylah Institute, Parks Victoria, Zoos Victoria and community groups.

The possum’s status as ‘critically endangered’ is being reviewed by the Federal Government. Environmentalists are pushing for a Great National Park to protect the possum, but this threatens the existence of much of Gippsland’s native forest industry and the hundreds employed in it. At risk are Australian Paper in the Latrobe Valley, Australian Sustainable Hardwoods in Heyfield and mills in West and East Gippsland.

The surveys have been conducted in 6%-10% of the possum’s potential or likely habitat. There are 204,400 hectares of potential Leadbeater’s Possum habitat found in the Central Highlands, with 70% of that in parks and reserves and 30% available for potential timber harvesting. Most searches have taken place in the timber zones.

The 2014 Leadbeater’s Possum Advisory Group advocated 12 ha buffer zones around each new colony detected, along with a ceiling of 200 new buffers.

Forestry consultant and author, Mark Poynter, writing

10

in ‘Online Opinion’, said the Andrews Government had ignored the upper limit and continued to install extra buffers, thus creating now 688 buffers, which had greatly cut the area of forest available for harvesting.

“New Leadbeater’s Possum detections have now become so numerous that its critically endangered status is under review,” he said. This was acutely ironic.

A big conservation change has been a transition from clear felling to ‘regrowth retention harvesting’, where a half of each harvested coupe must remain within one tree height of adjacent unharvested forest.

“The industry is now being denied access to forests because there are too many possums rather than too few!”

Mr Poynter, in a peer reviewed article in ‘Australian Forestry’, said the original survey methods that suggested the possum was facing extinction were inadequate and had been overtaken by the more comprehensive surveys since 2014.

These used thermal imaging equipment and call playback, along with motion sensor cameras.

“Collectively, the use of such equipment has revolutionised nocturnal species surveying,” he said.

Mr Poynter said the detections in only 6%-10% of habitat were mainly in forest wood production zones in State forests. The two-thirds of possum habitat in various reserves were far less surveyed.

“State forests are also easier to survey due to a more extensive and accessible road and track network,” he said.

Mr Poynter said the environmental benefits from actively managing forests were shown by the surveys, which had found many possums living in State forests used for timber harvesting.

The legally required practices, set out in forest management plans, involve retention of streamside reserves, limits on coupe size and distribution, retention of old trees or patches of trees, slope limits and exclusion of specific areas with identified special values.

A big conservation change has been a transition from clear felling to ‘regrowth retention harvesting’, where a half of each harvested coupe must remain within one tree height of adjacent unharvested forest.

“This increases the influence of adjacent older forest on regrowth harvested areas,” he said.

Other revised regeneration practices increased protection of areas of regrowth forest containing scattered large old ash trees. “This means that the highest quality LP habitat is already excluded from timber harvesting,” he said.

Mr Poynter said other possum protection measures included the installation of nest boxes and chainsaw carving of nesting hollows in standard trees. “There is strong evidence that they are effective,” he said.

By 2016, there were signs of occupancy in 53% of the 498 nest boxes. Similarly, of the 72 artificial hollows at 18 sites, possums had been found nesting in 37 (52%) of them at 78% of the sites.

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 www.timberbiz.com.a

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In the news

Working together means we can all breathe a little easier It’s taken time and money but the Jubilee Highway Sawmill is now totally compliant with stringent environmental air quality emissions.

No-one can deny the importance of local timber mills for regional jobs and the economy, however, the oftenageing infrastructure has, in the past, presented challenges with air pollution and quality.

Even before purchasing the Jubilee Highway Sawmill last year, OneFortyOne was in discussions with the South Australian Environment Protection Authority on air quality to meet legislative requirements for the site.

“The purchase of the Jubilee Highway Sawmill was a landmark investment for the business, cementing our commitment to the Green Tri-

angle region and becoming a local domestic processor ourselves,” said OneFortyOne’s Executive General Manager, Cameron MacDonald.

“As a member of this community, with nearly 400 employees, it was important to us to reduce emissions from the site. We committed to a significant capital expenditure for the boiler emissions project of $4.2 million as soon as we took over,” he added.

The boiler emissions project was undertaken by a dedicated team of OneFortyOne’s engineers, boiler operators, maintenance and safety teams, along with local contractors Whitty Engineering and Gabriel Electrical. It involved the installation of advanced cyclonic technol-

ogy to ensure compliance with environmental air quality licence conditions.

EPA’s Mount Gambier Manager, Naomi Grey said the reduced air emissions not only ensured OneFortyOne was compliant with its environmental obligations, but would also significantly improve the air quality for the community in Mount Gambier.

Paul Hartung said “This is great news for our workforce and the local community,” said Paul Hartung, OneFortyOne’s Jubilee Site Sawmill General Manager.

“It was the first investment of its kind at Jubilee and as well as improving emissions, it is just one of many significant investments OneFortyOne has undertaken since it took over the mill in January 2018.”

Local students showcase why they love forests

Major prizes were awarded to 4 students and their schools, along with prizes to the 3 runners up. The videos can be found on OneFortyOne’s Facebook page.

Winners

■■ Jan Rombouts and Anne Kerr from OneFortyOne and winning students Hiroki Owen, Bonny de Nys and Archie Thomas.

Runners Up Gianna Morello, Finn Dickson and Elijah Bond.

T

he videos are in, the votes have been counted and it is fair to say there are some very talented young people across the Limestone Coast who just love forests!

The team at OneFortyOne have been overwhelmed by the response to their International Day of Forests competition, with 36 students from across the region submitting their one-minute videos answering the question “Why are our local forests and trees important to you and your community?”

OneFortyOne’s Estate Man12

ager, Andrew Matheson said: “We were blown away by the calibre and quality of the videos put forward. It was obvious to us that all the students had put a lot of hard work in and were passionate about the importance of forests and timber industries.”

The entries were assessed for their originality, creativity and relevance to the theme. Judges were delighted to see clear and well-informed opinions and ideas coming through, of just how important forests are for the environment, responding to climate change, regional jobs and fun for anyone visiting them!

Milla Walmsley (Reidy Park Primary School) Hiroki Owen (St Martins Lutheran College) Archie Thomas (Tenison Woods College) Bonny de Nys (Tenison Woods College) Runners Up Elijah Bond (St Martins Lutheran College) Finn Dickson (Tenison Woods College) Gianna Morello (Tenison Woods College)

“The videos were so good, that we couldn’t pick just one winner. Watching these videos has been a real highlight – reminding us all why we love forests, and that the future of our industry is very bright, and in very safe hands”, said Mr Matheson.

■■ Andrew White: one of the crew involved in the major work.

Report confirms the importance of Latrobe Valley Energy from Waste project $600 million investment.

1046 construction jobs.

911 direct and indirect ongoing jobs across Victoria.

Following more than two years of detailed work, Australian Paper has released the key findings from its $7.5 million Energy from Waste (EfW) feasibility study, co-funded with support from the Victorian and Australian Governments, which confirms that an EfW facility at the Maryvale Mill would be socially, economically, environmentally, and commercially viable.

The Summary Report highlights the major waste management challenge facing South East Melbourne and concludes that Australian Paper’s $600 million EfW facility provides a unique opportunity to address pending landfill closures. This could prevent approximately 550,000 tonnes of waste per annum being trucked across Melbourne from municipalities in the South East to landfill sites located in the City’s West.

The Report also demonstrates that the facility would allow Australian Paper to return significant quantities of natural gas back to Victorian households and create valuable jobs for the Latrobe Valley community at a pivotal time in its economic transition.

Australian Paper’s Chief Operating Officer Peter Williams said: “This project would result in an investment of over $600 million in the Latrobe Valley, creating 1,046 jobs per annum for the three years of construction, and supporting 911 direct

and indirect jobs ongoing across Victoria.

“Importantly, with Melbourne’s looming landfill challenge, Australian Paper’s EfW project is the missing link in waste management infrastructure for the South East, creating efficient energy from residual household and commercial waste, achieving a more sustainable outcome than disposal to landfills. The facility would reduce CO2 emissions by more than 540,000 tonnes per year.

“By diverting 650,000 tonnes per annum of residential and commercial waste from Victorian landfill, the facility could provide Melbourne with essential waste management and resource recovery infrastructure,” he said.

Mr Williams noted that by replacing natural gas at the Maryvale site, Australian Paper would return enough gas to the market to meet the annual needs of up to 70,000 Victorian households annually.

“EfW technology is a proven and reliable low emissions technology, meeting the strictest European emissions standards and has been used extensively in Europe, Japan and North America for decades.

“Australian Paper is now focused on taking this important regional investment for the Latrobe Valley to the Development Stage where with our partner SUEZ we will work to finalise approvals and seek to secure long term waste supply contracts as well as appoint suitable partners to undertake the engineering, procurement and construction phases,” he said.

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 www.timberbiz.com.a

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In the news

Rescued possum gives forestry firefighters a photo to remember

A

dazed juvenile brushtail possum rescued by Forestry Corporation of NSW staff has given a cheeky wave of thanks after a recent fire on Perricoota State Forest.

The photo was taken by Forestry Corporation staff Jean Dind of colleague Phil Murphy relocating the possum while they were firefighting.

“The possum appeared to have been affected by smoke and fell out of its tree in front of us,” Phil said.

“We checked it over and once it livened up, we moved it to a safe spot outside the containment line.

“It soon scurried off unharmed, and we were left with a great photo of the ap-

preciative possum.”

The small fire was started by a campfire and was soon controlled by Forestry Corporation firefighters with initial assistance from the Rural Fire Service.

Forestry Corporation is responsible for preventing and managing fires in two million hectares of State forests across New South Wales.

Forest Corporation staff are trained as forest firefighters as well as being forestry professionals, so are well placed to prevent and manage fires affecting the NSW forest estates. The organisation also assists with large bushfires on private property, other bushland in Australia and also overseas.

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Tree-sit protest delays firefighting response A Romsey logging contractor working in the Castella Logging Coupe has said that anti-logging protesters who tied themselves to his machinery delayed him from helping build fire containment lines at the Bunyip State Park bushfire on Saturday 2 March.

Brad Meyer said he was called in to help fight at some local fires by VicForests on the Saturday, but six machines, including two bulldozers and a harvester, were unusable due to the protests.

“I got a phone call Saturday morning at 10.30am from VicForests requesting some of our machinery to go to the fires,” Mr Meyer said.

“I said my crew is ready to roll whenever they need it, but the problem we’ve got is our machinery is tied up with the (protesters) … I think we moved the machines out at about seven or eight o’clock at night.”

Since 20 February the Forest Conservation Victoria group had been holding a protest preventing logging operations in Toolangi, after volunteer citizen scientists reported finding a critically endangered Barred Galaxias fish species in the area.

As part of the protest, one protester was suspended 30 metres high on a tree-sit platform, and was tied to Mr Meyer’s machinery for several days.

Jake McKenzie, from Victorian Forest Alliance, said that following police arrival at 4pm on Saturday 2 March protestors fulfilled their request to leave

the area and the tree sitter came down immediately.

“Police rocked up to the camp at about four o’clock in the afternoon. That was when we were first notified and no request was refused. One logging machine left the area within a couple hours,” Mr McKenzie said.

“If these contractors weren’t in here, where they’re not supposed to be, logging threatened species’ habitat then it wouldn’t have been an issue.

“There are a number of machines throughout the area they could have grabbed, they didn’t need to come in and grab this one that was tied off.”

VicForests refuted the claims that they selected the machinery based on the premise of the protest and confirmed that the Department of Environment, Land and Water and Planning (DELWP) made a request to utilise timber harvesting machinery for firefighting efforts including machinery in the Castella quarry coupe.

The spokesperson also confirmed that there were difficulties accessing the machinery in one of the coupes due to protest activity at the time.

“Suggestions that the machinery in Castella Quarry was specifically selected due to ongoing protester activity is inaccurate and misleading,” a spokesperson said.

“The request to access the machinery was made by DELWP, not VicForests.”

- Mail News Group

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 www.timberbiz.com.a

Research

Making green timber light could save a bundle!

T

here’s a new tool that could potentially save the forestry industry millions of dollars.

Green wood is about 50% water, but new desktop planning tools and a smartphone app will help managers balance the reduced transport costs from drying forest biomass and timber infield against product quality, storage costs and machinery wear and tear.

Researchers on a project funded by FWPA and managed by the University of the Sunshine Coast’s Forest Industry Research Centre (FIRC) say the new tools could save the forestry industry millions of dollars.

Given that green wood contains so much moisture, sub-

stantial transport cost savings are achievable through infield log drying.

“With more than 25 million tonnes of predominantly green logs and chips transported in Australia per year at a cost of over $350 million, potential annual savings of millions of dollars in annual land transport costs are possible, even for relatively small reductions (less than 10%) in moisture content,” Professor Mark Brown, director of FIRC, said.

“The initial phase of our research into infield log drying found that summer drying rates of more than 1% moisture content per day were possible in the first week of storage.”

A literature review showed that use of post-harvest forest

biomass for domestic energy use and for export is common overseas but is a largely untapped resource in Australia, and will continue to be so unless delivered costs can be reduced.

“High harvest and transport costs are a critical barrier to increased forest biomass use, and integration of forest biomass harvesting with conventional forest harvesting has been shown to be an efficient option,” Professor Brown said.

“Biomass and logs for chips and other wood products can then be dried infield to reduce transport costs – and for biomass, increase its energy content.”

Professor Brown explained that infield drying of chip logs

and higher-value logs can lead to deterioration in quality and additional processing machinery wear and tear however, little was known about the magnitude of these issues and at what moisture content they become significant.

The FIRC project included infield drying trials of biomass, chip-logs and highervalue wood products, as well as chipper time and motion studies, with variables such as location, season, species and pile size.

Field trial results were then used to create drying models and software tools and this was followed by operational trials conducted with industry collaborators.

The predictive tools developed through this research

■■ Professor Mark Brown.

will enable forest growers to make informed decisions regarding infield storage of logs and biomass so they can reduce moisture content to the point where returns from lower transport costs outweigh any losses from reduced quality, increased storage costs and increased machinery wear and tear.

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Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 15

Bio

Wood pellet power – it’s here now!

By Tony Esplin from RTG

W

e have seen pellet heaters. They’ve been around for many years, mainly in Europe, and now the predicted annual sales in Australia is close to 1000 units p.a. We now have specialised pellet powered hot water boilers to replace expensive to run electric element boilers. These are well insulated, dedicated HW boilers that are very efficient to run. They are used to generate HW for the home or commercial use and can run multiple independent circuits that can

provide hydronic under floor heating, potable HW for consumption and they can also heat the pool!

And who hasn’t watched the TV series Pit Masters where self-proclaimed BBQ experts pit their formidable skills against each other in the quest to win the coveted Pit Master challenge for the best brisket?

A lot of these BBQs are fired with wood pellets!

And now we have outdoor patio pellet powered heaters to extend our entertaining hours outside in the cooler months.

The common fuel in all these

consumer devices is the humble wood pellet.

then be pelletised into a useful energy rich product.

What is a wood pellet?

Typical wood pellets contain about 17 - 18Mj/kg.

It is a cylindrically shaped fuel pellet typically 6mm diameter and between 10 – 40mm long. It is made from dried fibrous waste material and pressed and extruded in a Die to make an energy dense, flowable, pellet.

Pellets can be made from pretty much any fibrous biomass material; wood fibre, sugar cane trash, PKF etc . .

But it must be dried to about 10 – 11% moisture content first. It is then reduced in size using a hammer mill and can

For comparison purposes wet firewood is about 8 – 9 Mj/kg, coal is 29Mj/kg. Put another way - 1kg wood pellets has a calorific value of 4.5kW. Deduct 10% heat loss up the flue pipe and what you feel from a pellet heater is about 4kW heat / kg wood pellets combusted.

An 8kW pellet heater will consume 2kg / hr at full power.

Of course, they only run at full power initially and then drop off to typically run at about

40% capacity once the room is warm.

A big benefit with pellets heaters is the lack of smoke.

Because the fibre is dry, not wet, the flame burn is very efficient and minimal soot (carbon particulate) is emitted.

They really are quite an efficient device. A lot cheaper to run than electric heaters and a lot more convenient than cutting and splitting firewood.

Why is all this important?

If you are reading this publication chances are you rely on the forestry industry, either directly or indirectly, for a living. You probably understand the amount of waste generated

NZ hospital changes to biomass boilers Christchurch Hospital is ready to excise its current coal-fired boilers and is switching to the more resilient and environmentally sustainable woody biomass boilers. will improve the Canterbury DHB’s resilience and environmental sustainability.

NZ Health Minister Dr David Clark said Polytechnik Biomass Energy, based in Austria, had been awarded the contract to design, manufacture and install replacements for the current coal-fired boilers. The total budget for the project is approximately $45 million.

“The existing boiler house at Canterbury DHB’s main hospital campus was damaged in the 2011 earthquake and is at increased risk of failure in the event of another significant earthquake.

“This investment will tackle that vulnerability and ensure the critical energy supply for the hospital is modern and reliable.

“The new boilers will use sustainably produced wood biomass, which is a renewable resource and affordable.

The boilers are a great way to dispose of waste wood, and will emit far less carbon dioxide than conventional fossil fuels,” the Minister said.

Information.

Intelligence.

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• • • • • •

16

production, imports, exports prices, volumes, trends housing & other markets logs and woodchips sawn wood wood panels

“The design and construction of the two 7.5Mw capacity biomass boilers is a key next step towards building the new Energy Centre, which is needed to service the new Christchurch Hospital, Hagley (formerly known as the Acute Services Building) and all of Canterbury DHB’s main hospital campus.

“Once the design of the boilers has been completed, then the design and procurement of the Energy Centre building can take place.

“This is a key piece of the hospital’s infrastructure.

Staff and patients need to know the energy supply can be relied on. This investment will give them that confidence,” the Minister said.

“It is great to see Government putting its money where its mouth is with regard to reducing emissions.

Such investment leadership will encourage business to also move to use biomass energy,” Said Brian Cox, Executive Officer of the Bioenergy Association.

“The decision by the Canterbury District Health Board and the Government to install two biomass fuelled boilers at Christchurch hospital to replace the existing coal fuelled boilers demonstrates the increas-

ing growth in the use of biomass to replace coal and natural gas for heating.

“The decision provides a show of confidence in the availability of biomass fuel into the future, and the capability of the biomass fuel suppliers to reliably deliver specification fuel to meet demand.”

He said the growing pool of heat plants fuelled by biomass in Canterbury was also providing the critical mass necessary for having adequate levels of advisers and service providers in the region.

“Government has signalled that it wants a focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions from process heat so it is encouraging to see that its own investment decisions are making Canterbury a role model on how 20PJ of coal and gas could be replaced by biomass fuel by 2050.”

It is expected that construction of the new Energy Centre will get under way in late 2019, and that the project will be completed by the end of 2020 or early 2021. Funding for the project is drawn from the Earthquake Repairs Program of Works, which was established with insurance settlement funds.

When you need to know, you need IndustryEdge

T 03 5229 2470 www.industryedge.com.au Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 www.timberbiz.com.a

Bio during harvesting and some downstream further processing operations. All this fibre can potentially end up being fuel in a wood pellet!

It’s renewable, it’s green, and it’s valuable.

Why are wood pellets so popular now?

Electricity flows. Gas flows. Oil flows.

Pellets flow. Firewood does not flow. It cannot be turned on and off when we need it.

But pellets burn like firewood, only more efficiently. We are now seeing a lot of consumer devices entering the market that are fuelled with wood pellets. Therefore, the demand for wood pellets will increase domestically. Bunnings are already stocking wood pellets in Tasmania – and once the mainstream outlets start stocking a product then you know its’ only a matter of time before it spreads around Australia to all states.

What about pellet quality?

This is an important point.

Pellet consuming devices

need homogeneity in their fuel source in order to operate effectively. And how can device emissions be compared when the fuel specification varies? Currently there is a very weak set of guidelines that state that the minimum pellet density should be 640kg / m3 and the pellet length should be between 10 – 40mm. The domestic standards need to define mechanical durability, ash content parameters, trace element analysis parameters just to name a few. The European market has various standards that define the pellet quality.

I1. I2, Industrial grade etc . . .

The Australian market needs to quickly adopt and implement some pellet quality standards so that manufacturers can make quality pellets to suit the various consumer devices. Both hardwood and softwood are suitable for making pellets.

How are pellets made?

The five main processes are: collection of raw fibre / wet grinding / fibre drying & stor-

age / dry grinding / pelletising & cooling. This complete system can be as small as 1T / hr up to 20T / hr for larger export volume production facilities.

The larger lines typically run for over 7000 hours p.a., are fully automatic in their operation and represent a significant capital investment. A lot of fibre is required to feed a beast this size!

Australia is blessed to have an abundance of suitable raw fibre.

Getting it to a suitable location for processing and then to market is where the challenges lay. Regionally located Integrated Processing Hubs that can utilise forest waste together with processing waste fibre is one answer. Having a range of smaller pellet processors geographically dispersed and consuming local waste fibre is another. And there will be other solutions not yet identified. But one thing is certain; the domestic and international demand for pellets is only going one way – and that is up!

Bio Briefs More pellets, more value

Boral’s bio-refinery bid

The US exported more than 6 million metric tons of wood pellets in 2018, which was up roughly 17% up on the prior year. It has been estimated that the total value of these exports increased nearly 22%, from $666 million in 2017 to $812 million in 2018. The US exported wood pellets to over 30 countries last year, although the volumes exported to most of those countries were quite small.

Manufacturing giant Boral is pressing ahead with research into creating a bio-refinery in New South Wales using its hardwood sawmill residues. The $1.2 million feasibility study aims to determine the technical and financial viability of building a second-generation bio-refinery that would produce renewable diesel fuel and bitumen.

Funding for the study comes from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency ($500,000), with Boral providing the other $700,000.

Steve Dadd, Executive General Manager of Boral Timber, said the company had been looking for some time for a value-added use of timber residues from its six northern NSW coast timber mills.

The residues, previously exported to Japan for pulp and paper, are currently used for landscaping, boiler fuel and other low-value applications.

Mr Dadd said only a small percentage of the hardwood timber became high-value products such as decking and flooring.

“There are a lot of leftovers from forest to mill. No supply chain in the world can survive if such a small percentage of its resource ends up in products,” he said.

Demand keep rising Japan’s consumption of wood pellets continues to increase significantly in the wake of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in 2011, as its government has targeted a “best energy mix” of roughly 4 GW of biomass-fired capacity by 2030. By then, Japanese demand for wood pellets will be upwards of 15 million tons per year—a staggering 3,000% increase from its consumption of roughly 500,000 tons in 2017.

In 2018, Japan was home to 145 operating pellet facilities that produced just 125,000 metric tons annually; most facilities produce between 100 and 1,000 tons annually.

www.timberbiz.com.au

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Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 17

Sawmill Profile

■■ Neil stands next to large logs that will be finished and exported to China, Japan, Vietnam and Korea.

Sawmill Profile: Whiteland Milling State-of-the-art operation worked from the heart

By Keith Smiley

N

eil Whiteland epitomises a dwindling tribe of green saw millers in Western Australia, dissatisfied by the overindulgence of green-enabled governments. When they purchased Whitelands in 1981, the world of logging was a far cry from today’s abandonment of riches.

Ever the realist, Neil waxes lyrical about the state of forestry and felling: “The result of the Government’s decision to release more areas for logging have provided us with logs that are too small to be

18

viable. We can’t get enough out of these tiny logs but we persist.

“I paid my father out when he retired but maybe he should have paid me out,” said Neil, with a touch of irony.

In the midst of a second decade of licences to log jarrah from the state’s south west forest; value-adding continues to underpin their success with the construction of 13 drying kilns, and automated machinery. The machine shop is managed by Neil’s son Marc, employing 10 workers in addition to 25 others in the two saw mills, and indirectly

supporting local businesses in nearby Busselton.

The 64-year old is ready to retire as soon as the business is sold. He and wife Andrea have five adult children between them, from two marriages. Neil’s daughter Amanda is CEO of the Margaret River Wine Association, and flits about the world, promoting Aussie wine - another daughter, Lauren, brings the joy of grandchildren - while the Whiteland seniors find time to holiday overseas.

Neil’s hobby, is his 400 acres of paddock, supporting 120 Angus breeders, and a feedlot for 400 cattle, fed

and sold to the abattoirs. “We grow 1000 bales of hay and cut it ourselves. But outside of this we do a bit of crabbing and fishing. I am a Gemini and get on with everyone, have a few beers but I admit to working too hard.”

Whiteland Milling began life with four-man manual benches, later securing a third grade licence for cutting jarrah, and cutting sleepers for Bunnings who had held a contract for railway sleepers.

With a penchant for growing the business, the Whitelands installed Grey benches in two mills beside each other, ‘not locked into cutting one at a

time’, for making the process that much easier.

With a bevy of drying kilns to add panache to their operation, they could also dress timber for flooring, decks and mouldings. Their finished products use jarrah, marri, blackbutt, karri and their trusty sheoak for flooring. The WA Government has granted the company logging rights for these timbers.

Nothing is squandered at the Busselton plant, with the leftover firewood, bark, and sawdust sold as fuel or useful waste. The Whitelands run a state-of-the-art operation and ‘love’ what they do.

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 www.timberbiz.com.a

Milestone

25 years of real “cutting edge” technology ortable Sa ill P M

25th

lls mi w

Luc as

Lucas Mill milestone anniversary SI

L

N C E 1994

ucas Mill, a brand now synonymous in the forestry/timber industry – not just in Australia but also around the world -- is currently celebrating 25 years in the business.

The Lucas family owned and operated business had its beginnings back in 1994 with the “factory” originating in a small farm shed on a sheep property nestled within the native stringy bark and red box trees in a locality called Wooragee.

Founded on the intention to expand the horizons of landwww.timberbiz.com.au

holders and small-medium forestry operators, Lucas Mill was established with the objectives of developing a timber-milling machine that was: Simple to operate; Affordable without compromising quality and; Versatile with regards to its ability to be used in any environment.

These goals have led to the development of a machine that is effective, economical and only limited by the initiative of its operator.

With low early expectations, it came as a welcome surprise that orders for more than 50 machines were placed in the first month of manufacturing – a quantity the Lucas family would have welcomed as a typical annual output.

Initially the company specialized in manufacturing the model 6 sawmill with a 6¼” (160mm) cut until early 1996 when a model 8 was

launched capable of cutting 8½” (215mm) and powered by a 20H/P engine.

In 1996 Lucas Mill manufactured the first dedicated slabber, a machine specifically designed for cutting timber slabs.

The electrically powered swing blade sawmill was the next addition to the range in 1998 powered by a 3 phase electric motor.

The Lucas portable sawmills continued to grow over the next 21 years with five different circular swing-blade machines now available, from 6¼” (160mm) model up to the versatile 10” (254mm) model. Optional attachments are available for each model including slabbing, planning, sanding and weatherboard.

March 2019 represented Lucas Mills’ 25th anniversary in manufacturing their popular and proven portable sawmills… and here’s some-

thing the business is extremely proud of … the first Lucas portable swing blade sawmill ever made, a model 6, is still operating 25 years later!

The Lucas Portable Sawmill can be transported to almost any location and set up to select harvest timber with minimal impact to the surrounding environment.

Whether your project is cutting timber for private fencing, building or furniture making, hobbyist or if you are a subcontractor, there is no doubt that there is a strong demand for a quality Australian made product such as the Lucas Mill.

From the owner builder to the contract timber miller, from the freezing extremes of Alaska to the humidity of the Pacific Islands, the Lucas Mill has proven its claim to extreme durability, versatility and portability.

To date over 18,500 Lucas

Mill portable sawmills have been sold into more than 100 different countries around the world.

Although the company has grown significantly, its original objectives are still fundamental to the company’s daily operations and ongoing development. In addition to providing equipment to small operators, Lucas Mill has also filled orders for large organisations such as the Australian Army and numerous not-for-profit groups overseas.

This company mandate is not only a formula for success on Lucas Mill’s part, but also exemplifies the level of opportunity that the company endeavours to provide to each and every one of its customers.

If you would like to learn more about the Lucas Mill; 03 5728 7283 admin@lucasmill.com.au www.lucasmill.com.au

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 19

In the news

New state-of-the-art kiln system helps future-proof Wespine operations

W

espine has placed its future on a firm footing with a new Continuous Drying Kiln – the largest in Australia – that produces a more energy efficient and enhanced product. The $8 million CDK, at the company’s Dardanup plant near Bunbury, has the capacity to dry 180,000 cubic metres of timber per year.

It replaces five existing kilns that operated with older technology.

The new technology – a different drying and reconditioning technique in the kiln – will allow Wespine to cut its gas usage by 40% and lower its electricity consumption 25%. Ground water usage in the drying process will be reduced to zero.

“This technique also allows for the wood to be dried at a lower temperature, which will result in timber that is less stressed,” a company spokeswoman said.

The new CDK is 127 metres in length (including loading zones), is about 14 metres wide and about five metres high.

The processing time for the wood depends on the size and moisture content of the timber being dried.

“As a guide, 38-millimetre thickness timber would take about 42 hours inside the chamber,” the spokeswoman said.

“The opening of the CDK is a major milestone for Wespine and will be critically important to secure the business

into the future,” said Wespine Chairperson Andrew Webster.

“The whole project has been a success and I thank all those involved over the past 12 months to safely bring about this outcome which is so important for this business.

“The new technology CDK which was constructed over the last 12 months with assistance from many local businesses has been commissioned with no injuries, on time and below budget,” said Managing Director Patrick Warrand.

The construction of the kiln involved 16,390 hours of local South West contractor man hours, including some the major companies in and around Bunbury. These included Perkins Builders, Picton Civil,

Phillip Best Gas and Plumbing, Millers Contracting, BIS, BVA Fabricators and Cooper Fabrication of Busselton.

“Without the help of these local businesses this project would not have occurred.

“Wespine was thrilled that they could source so much of the project requirements from the local area,” said Mr Warrand.

The sawmill has operated at the Dardanup site since the early 1980s, with Wespine starting the current sawmill operation in 1992.

Over the past 25 years, production has consistently grown, with capacity now between 450,000m3 and 500,000m3 each year.

It is the only major WA sawmilling operation in the

Dardanup region’s timber hub.

“The sawmill is centrally located to a large volume of renewable plantation timber and next to the Laminex particle board plant and the Bunbury Port,” said Mr Warrand.

“The proximity to these services was an important factor in determining the location of the mill many years ago.”

Wespine, which is owned equally by Laminex (a Fletcher company) and Wesfarmers, sources its timber from WA’s Forest Products Commission and private growers.

Mick Murray, WA’s Minister for Seniors and Ageing; Volunteering; Sport and Recreation, Member for ColliePreston, officially opened the new plant.

Landmark agreement secures WA forestry future In Western Australia there are around 6,000 jobs in the forestry and wood products industry Valued at $1.4 billion, Western Australia’s forest and forest products industry sector makes a significant contribution to both the Australian economy and many regional and rural economies Nationally, the sales and service income of Australia’s forest product industries amounted to over $23 billion in 2016-17, and provides more than 50,000 jobs The Australian and West Australian Governments have signed a landmark 20 year extension of the Regional Forest Agreement (RFA) for the south-west forest region of Western Australia (WA RFA).

Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources Richard Colbeck said that the improvements and extension to the RFA provides long term confidence in the sustainable management of Western Australia’s forests, including securing the future of the forest industry.

“The extended WA RFA will continue to deliver the right balance of economic, social and environmental outcomes for WA’s forests,” Minister Colbeck said.

“This 20 year extension includes five year reviews to provide ongoing confidence and monitoring of forest management practices, and a stable investment environment for Western Australia’s $1.4 billion forest and forest products industry.

“This is a critical agreement that builds on similar agreements already signed with Tasmania and New South Wales and delivers on our election promises,” the Senator said.

20

“Forest management within the RFA region provides for the sustainable co-existence of forest-based industries (including timber production) and biodiversity outcomes.

“The south-west has a proud history of generations of foresters, and the WA RFA means that the next generation will have the opportunity to work in our sustainable forest industry too.”

Since the WA RFA was signed, the area of forest in reserves has increased by 52 per cent and over one million hectares of forest is now protected. It also protects important environmental assets and threatened species.

The extension offers a modernised approach to forest management through greater transparency, outcomes-focused reporting and long-term sustainability of a truly renewable industry.

The signing has been termed a “vital milestone” in WA’s forestry history and has been given the thumbs up from the Forest Industries Federation of WA (FIFWA) and the Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA).

“The RFA is a key element in the regulatory architecture governing the timber industry. Forestry and timber industry stakeholders in WA have been waiting a long time for this extension and for the certainty it provides to allow them to plan and invest for the future,” said FIFWA Acting Chief Executive Officer Matt Granger.

The WA RFA establishes a bilateral framework recognising the State’s comprehensive, adequate and representative (CAR) reserve system within the South

West region and provides for the sustainable management of public multi-use forests and plantations and for a long-term sustainable native forest products industry.

The Forest Management Plan 2014-2023 (FMP) remains the primary framework for managing forests and plantations on public land in WA. The RFA is an administrative agreement between the State and the Commonwealth that recognises WA’s forest management system processes are based on the principles of ecologically sustainable forest management and are sufficiently robust to address impacts on environmental values.

“We appreciate the work of the WA and Commonwealth Governments in consulting with stakeholders and implementing improvements to aspects of process relating to the RFA. This conclusion follows the completion of the NSW RFA last year and the Tasmanian RFA prior to that. Unfortunately, there is a delay on a final RFA in Victoria until at least next year,” AFPA Chief Executive Officer Ross Hampton said.

“With its 20-year rolling horizon, subject to fiveyearly reviews, the extended WA RFA provides stability to the regulatory framework that is essential for investment and employment in WA’s $1.4 billion per year industry.

“In WA, forest industries provide jobs for thousands of people and underpin numerous regional communities and economies. Those people can now be assured their children will have productive jobs in our renewable industries,” Mr Hampton said.

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 www.timberbiz.com.a

When you get up and running, we know how important it is to keep running. That’s why Waratah is determined to keep you working by providing second-to-none customer support. Whether you need a simple recalibration or you’re really up aganist it, you can contact our service team through our 24/7 contact lines.

No matter what time you need us, we’ll find a solution that keeps you working. And earning

Melbourne

24/7 Hotline 03 9747 4200

Bunbury WA

24/7 Hotline 08 9726 0411

www.waratah.net

Forwarders PONSSE Elephant King/K121 key specs • • • • • • • • • • •

23,700kg weight 275hp Mercedes Benz OM906 TIII engine 195kNm lifting moment 48kNm slew torque 240kN tractive effort 260lt fuel capacity Automatic fire suppression system Electric hydraulic oil fill Electric tilting cabin and engine bonnet LED high performance lighting Horizontal and vertical hydraulic load gate

■■ Elephant King, it reigns supreme, and now it’s got a new crane option!

Elephant King and Buffalo A formidable duo – strength and reliability

P

onsse has always been renowned for building tough, reliable forestry machines. This point has been proven in Australia since the introduction of the 20T Elephant King Forwarder back in 2015.

Since then, a good number of Australian contractors and their operators testify that the Elephant King really does pull its weight in regards to quality, reliability, operator comfort and performance.

Fast forward from 2015 to today and there have been more than 20 Ponsse Elephant King forwarders go to work in Australia. Quite an achievement when you consider Ponsse had never had any representation in Australia until late 2014.

In addition to the large and powerful Elephant King Forwarder, there is also a slightly smaller but nonetheless impressive Buffalo Forwarder 22

now available in Australia.

This machine fits neatly into thinning work or can still be used as a clear-fall machine thanks to utilisation of the same 275hp engine and K100+ crane as the Elephant King, giving the Buffalo the same impressive power and crane capacity in a slightly smaller package.

Starting inside the cabin of both machines, the layout is clean, quiet and ergonomic and provides the operator excellent visibility all around and above through the unique sloped rear screen.

Luxury car quality There is loads of storage space and enough room to comfortably accommodate two additional riders behind the operator. This space becomes particularly useful when training new operators.

Fitted out with automatic climate control, handsfree tel-

ephone, bluetooth radio and a heated high back seat with neck and side rests, the cabin finish and comfort is likened to the quality of a luxury car.

The K100+ crane, manufactured by Ponsse is strong and powerful. It is controlled via mini levers which are easily fine-tuned to suit the operator’s needs on Ponsse’s OPTI touch screen control system.

This control system also helps operators understand all critical on-board systems while they are in control of the machine.

Getting its immense power to the ground starts with a Tier 3, 275hp Mercedes Benz, 6 cylinder engine. The use of this engine has helped Ponsse’s customers in non-European countries avoid the use of costly and troublesome Ad Blu and after treatment systems not required by Australian regulations. From there, power is transferred through

a hydrostatic transmission and German built NAF axles and bogies.

Elephant King goes to the next level Ponsse has officially launched a new crane option for the world class 20t Elephant King Forwarder.

Building on the strength of the existing K100+ crane that has served the Elephant King so well, the K121 is set to take the Elephant King into a league of its own with a massive 22% more lifting power and 45% more slew torque when compared to the K100+.

This increase in lifting power will enable installation of larger grapples up to 0.50m2 which will increase overall productivity of the Elephant King particularly when unloading at roadside or when loading trucks.

The K121 crane can also be installed as a tilting base crane

enabling a maximum of 24 degrees rearward tilt, further enhancing its impressive capability in steep terrain.

The King post and boom ends are manufactured from a complete single piece casting providing superior strength and reliability.

Lighting has been improved to include a total of 7 boom and stick mounted lights to direct light more effectively to where it’s needed, all with ample protection.

Overall boom geometry is improved with even speed and power through the whole movement range. Extension glide pad surface area has been increased by 15% providing lower friction and overall lifetime. All hose routing is now fully enclosed within the main boom and stick which creates a clean look but more importantly, less external hoses prone to damage from external hazards such as limbs and load

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 www.timberbiz.com.a

Forwarders ■■ There is loads of storage space and enough room to comfortably accommodate two additional riders behind the operator. This space becomes particularly useful when training new operators.

bolsters which will equate to less downtime and lower operating costs.

Productivity will be further enhanced with the introduction of Ponsse Active Crane.

This is a system of sensors and modules integrated to the OPTI system which allows the operator to control the grapple movement instead of individual functions separately. Active Crane is easily controlled using two control levers, one that controls the height of the grapple from the ground and the other controlling the direction of movement. This results in the oper-

ator not needing to control all functions simultaneously with the machine control system deciding to lift, fold and extend based on the inputs from the operator. This ease of use is particularly helpful for new operators with the ability to switch Active Crane on or off with the push of a button.

Both the K121 and Active Crane will be introduced on the Elephant King for Australia in 2019.

Ponsse pride themselves in manufacturing their own frames, cabins, cranes and electronic systems. Unlike many manufacturers today

PONSSE Buffalo/K100+ key specs • 19,80000kg weight • 275hp Mercedes Benz OM906 TIII engine • 160kNm lifting moment • 33kNm slew torque • 185kN tractive effort • 200lt fuel capacity • Automatic fire

• •

•

•

suppression system Electric hydraulic oil fill Electric tilting cabin and engine bonnet LED high performance lighting Horizontal and vertical hydraulic load gate

who outsource much of their manufacturing and then assemble components to make a machine, Ponsse, through their own manufacturing of major components and electrical systems, have far greater control over the quality of their finished machine, and it shows.

Based in Finland, Ponsse is one of the largest manufacturers of Forwarders and Wheel Harvesters in the world, with more than 70% of their machines exported outside of Finland to countries such as USA, Russia, Brazil and China.

Ponsse Bison Active Frame Faster Forwarder Ponsse launched the PonsseE Bison Active Frame at the FinnMETKO trade fair in the autumn of 2018. The main strengths of the new forwarder model are its speed and efficiency.

The continuously variable transmission and the Active Frame cabin suspension system raise productivity to a new level, especially over long transport distances.

The Ponsse Bison Active Frame demonstrates its speed especially over long transport distances. The new continuously variable transmission (CVT) always balances the driving speed and engine load, ensuring low fuel consumption and high productivity. In addition to fuel efficiency, the benefits of the powertrain include high tractive force and seamless transmission – work doesn’t have to stop when changing the driving speed.

www.timberbiz.com.au

The Ponsse Bison is equipped with the Ponsse Active Frame cabin suspension system. The system has a simple and functional structure, dampening any lateral movement affecting the operator effectively and unnoticeably.

The Active Frame allows the operator to stay alert and productive hour after hour, even at high speeds. The large load space combined with the powerful and easy-to-use loader ensure efficient load handling at all work sites.

CVT for the first time in forest machines The transmission of the Ponsse Bison Active Frame is based on CVT technology. Product Manager Juha Haverinen, who is responsible for forwarders at Ponsse, says that the experiences have been good.

“Thanks to the CVT, driving speed can be increased considerably if the situation per-

mits. This is especially useful over long transport distances.”

The CVT includes seamless changing of gear ratios and thus the traditional switching between slow and fast gear is no longer necessary. The operator can drive at any speed without having to stop, depending on the driving conditions.

In a machine with CVT, the traditional hydrostatic transmission can be replaced with a separate CVT gear system. This enables lower fuel consumption as well as a higher tractive force, the benefits of which become obvious when driving on steep hills, soft terrain or in deep snow.

CVT systems are based on a very robust technology. They have been previously used, for example, in large earthmoving machines, so there is plenty of experience in demanding conditions.

Ponsse is the only forest machine manufacturer to offer CVT in forest machines.

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 23

Forwarders

Komatsu Forest Forwarder success in Tasmania

K

omatsu Forest initially opened their first Tasmanian branch in 2000 (the year of the Sydney Olympics) with the current branch opening in 2009 which is located at 6 Monroe St Bredalbane near the Launceston Airport. This location has proven to provide a great advantage when parts have been required to be airfreighted in from the mainland. The branch is headed up by long-time employee David Oliver, with the well-

known Shane McCarthy running spare parts.

Every branch requires an experienced field service team, backing up David Oliver in Service, KF have Brett Spilsbury and Jamie Whelan supported by apprentice Mitchell Bennett. In the southern region Mick Gray looks after the local contractor’s service needs. In Sales Nigel Howard has returned to the “Apple Isle” with great success.

It takes a real team effort to be successful which the KF

Tasmanian team have certainly achieved over the last 12 months with the sale of 9 forwarders, consisting of 3 x 875 and 6 x 895, to customers such as Les Walkden, Kevin Morgan, Adrian Bennett, Ten Mile Developments, Jake Hughes and Orana Enterprises to name a few. The forwarders sales have been well supported with the sales of seven purpose-built harvesters in this same period.

Brett Jones (General Manager Komatsu Forest) is extremely pleased with the

Tasmanians efforts and notes some of the following contractor’s experiences.

Jake Hughes has gone from part-time worker in a timber mill to a fully-fledged forestry contractor in Tasmania’s north-west.

He left school in 2004 and entered the industry after working a summer at a mill close to home town Scottsdale (the now closed Frenchpine). He worked in a variety of roles in the industry in Tasmania, Western Australia and NSW before returning to Tasmanian in 2012 to drive a log truck.

In 2014 he went on to establish the beginnings of JCH purchasing two log trucks, sub-contracting to various contractors; while working in timber harvesting operations.

Contracting ranks

■■ JCH Harvest & Haul (Jake Hughes) Komatsu 895.

24

It was from this point that Jake pursued the opportunity to enter the industry and become a contractor in Tasmania.

In November 2018 his operations were officially started with a crew of seven including Jake operating a new Komatsu Forwarder.

He has established himself in the north-west of Tasmanian with a shed site in Somerset, he now employs 10 people locally.

While on the Forwarder (Komatsu 895, a high produc-

tivity 20-tonne unit), Jake has given it the thumbs up.

“The Komatsu 895 was the best and most viable option for JCH initial operations,” he said.

“The value the machine offered, the consistencies and the overall reputation of the product; was a great option for our initial start-up of more extensive operations.

“The aftermarket service provided by these guys allowed us to make informed and consistent projections on machine costs and efficiencies into the future,” said Jake.

Primary operator Jason said the spring gate was one of the best developments – “it allows for more robust action, more durable”.

Some of the standout points Jake commented on:The payload; The back-up and support from Komatsu Forest, which has been second to none; The Proact 2.0 service process-customer care meaning lots of follow up and aftermarket care; The Maxi Fleet management system in having the ability with scales and communications capabilities resulting in optimisation into the future; Our local product support team is contactable 24/7 and this has strengthened our confidence in the product and the Komatsu brand.

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 www.timberbiz.com.a

Forwarders

“This machine has allowed for consistent production targets within reasonable time frames to be met and maintained,” he added.

“The reliability, the quality and the aftermarket followup and service has allowed for operational consistency, something we are attempting to build our company around.

“It’s reliable, which means it can achieve quotas week in, week out.”

Jake reported that his operators were also impressed with the operator comforts of the 895 …. “It’s got a very spacious cab in all directions; comfortable in all environments; a very quiet operator base; the visibility allows for awareness of all surrounds in every direction; very comfortable ergonomic seat that all operators have commented on; a vast improvement over the last model, roomier overall comfort, vision good’ and it allows for multi-operator settings.”.

When asked if any improvements could be made to the machine Jason (operator) replied: The centre of the gate where the crane sits, a v-like gate allows for smaller product to potentially slip through.”

Then he added …. “Every machine needs a bigger oven, only fits a part pie in it… ha ha ha!”. www.timberbiz.com.au

JCH is split into two separate operations in the area surrounding Burnie. (Most of Jake’s logging for previous contractors had been conducted close to his hometown of Scottsdale).

One job has two Harvesters and the new Komatsu Forwarder, and the second has three Harvesters and a Forwarder, harvesting in hardwood plantations.

Jake has built his business based on operational consistency plus a keen interest to reflect and continuously improve within the industry.

First new machine When TP Bennett & Sons decided to buy a Komatsu 895 Forwarder for their Tasmanian operations it wasn’t just another purchase, it was something special. As Adrian Bennett (one of the directors) said … “it was a fairly big deal. It was the first brand new machine we had bought”.

So, why was it, the familyrun business opted for the Komatsu?

“A few reasons,” says Adrian …. loyalty, research into the machine and that it had been seen in action.

TP Bennett and Sons is operated under the directorship of Adrian and Neil, but is a family run operation with Mum, Carol and sisters Tammy and Jacqui complet-

ing the picture. The business ventured into plantation work in the past 12 months with a 60,000t contract. “We’ve still got the cable going on state forest at 40,000t per year.

Across all operations we have just under 20 employees,” said Adrian.

“Me and Neil talked to the rest of the family and stuck our neck out a little bit and bought our first brand new machine, the Komatsu 895. We did research especially with a few of the mechanics who do work on Komatsu’s, then we settled on the 895 and took delivery of it in September 2018.”

When it comes to what he sees as standout points, Adrian lists good bunk capacity, swing out bolsters, great ground clearance and comfy to operate.

“I’ve got my niece, Meeghan Price, driving it.

She was still at school completing year 12, she said she wanted the job and to hold it for her. She left Hobart College and came straight to operate it for us. She has worked in the business since she was 14, it’s special we can share this with the next generation.

“Also working on the plantation operation is my nephew, Brock Cordwell along with long time employee, David Lorkin. Meeghan and Brock are like brother and sister and whether our employees are blood or not – they are all our family,” said Adrian.

“The visibility is really good. We’ve had it (895) in some pretty steep going here

at Ranelagh and my niece drove it. It was right on its limits to gather the wood going downhill. We had to build an access road out for it. It handled that spot on. She (Meeghan) talks to the mechanic and gets herself familiar with the machine and the computer system. She’s going well with it,” said Adrian.

“It’s really the backbone of the operation. We’ve got a good processor here and if you don’t have a good forwarder …. with the Komatsu you can get in and just go.

Yeah, you haven’t got to worry about anything.”

The Bennett name has been synonymous with forestry in Tasmania for over 50 years and the family is making sure this continues to be the case into the future.

■■ T.P.Bennett & Sons Komatsu 895.

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 25

Forwarders

■■ A Tigercat 1075C forwarder working near Tumut in New South Wales. The new hooked profile increases the working envelope of the Tigercat F195T85 crane.

Designed for peak performance in demanding situations Tigercat C-series Forwarders

T

igercat forwarders, ranging in capacity from 14 tonne to 25 tonne are designed to achieve high production and lowest cost in the most demanding transporting applications.

They are built tough for high duty cycle applications, heavy loads and challenging terrain.

The forwarder family includes the 1055C, the 1075C and the 1085C. The 25 tonne 1075C now fitted with Tigercat’s own 25 tonne rated bogies is the largest forwarder available on the market and the most popular Tigercat forwarder in Australia. The 1075C is equipped 26

with the biggest crane delivering unmatched productivity with the lowest cost per tonne performance. Innovative lowwide bunk system and Tigercat’s high capacity hooked crane allows the operator to lift heavier loads with more slew torque than competing class cranes. This combination expands the working envelope of the crane for reduced machine travel, decreased loading and unloading cycle time, improved productivity, operator visibility and ergonomics are enhanced.

The first 1075C forwarders with 25 tonne rated bogies in

Australia were sold to Sunchip Group. This specification is now standard on all new Tigercat forwarders coming in to the country.

Mark Blackberry, owner of Sunchip Group, explained why he opted for the 1075C forwarders, “Tigercat products are not the cheapest option on the market but with a lot of other brands you need to look at replacing the equipment after around 5 years. Tigercat machines are exceptionally strong and reliable – they’re a long-term investment that will last longer than 5 years. The 1075C forwarders have out-

standing fuel efficiency and the software is great too”.

“We operate in a lot of extreme conditions so robust and stable machines are a necessity. The 1075C is a stronger, bigger capacity forwarder and as mentioned, the fuel economy is fantastic. The operator acceptance is exceptional.

They’re just extremely tough machines and the reliability and service is second to none”.

Hooked crane profile and low-wide® bunks The Tigercat F195T85 crane is capable of lifting 20-30% heavier loads at the same reach

compared with any other forwarder crane on the market. In addition, the crane boasts 2266% more slew torque than any competing crane. The tapered roller bearing in the slew base is designed to last the life of the machine, an improvement over the plain bearing and spherical rollers used in other cranes.

The crane’s hooked profile is designed to increase the working envelope of the crane for reduced machine travel and improved productivity. But where the crane really shines is when used in combination with Tigercat’s new low-wide expandable bunk systems. The

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 www.timberbiz.com.a

Forwarders

A 25 tonne bogie bearing load rated 1075C forwarder equipped with low-wideÂŽ working in eucalyptus. The angled bunk system allows for a lower overall gate height. Combined with the hooked crane, the system significantly improves productivity.

low-wide bunks are angled to reduce overall gate height and eliminate the need for a vertically sliding gate. The expandable bunk improves productivity by increasing payload in applications where the wood is relatively light in weight and load area is the constraining factor. In combination with the hooked crane, the low-wide bunk system significantly reduces the chance of contact with the gate or bunk stakes.

Operator visibility and ergonomics are enhanced. The operator enjoys a clear sightline to the top of the load, increasing log placement accuracy and decreasing cycle times.

In addition, the grapple stays within the operator’s view through the entire loading and unloading cycle for reduced operator strain. The low-wide system is available for all Tigercat forwarders.

Tigercat grapples Since an average of 50% www.timberbiz.com.au

of the forwarder duty cycle is extended windows for ex- under the cab, on the engine spent loading and unloading, cellent visibility to the load wall area, and the engine increasing the number of logs area and the ground. The hood to reduce driveline and per crane cycle is another way large window area provides engine noise. All connections that Tigercat is improving an open feeling, reducing the to the cab use bulkhead fitoverall machine productivity perception of being confined tings to reduce noise transfer. and reducing forwardService ing cost per tonne.

The FG43 and FG53 Tigercat forward50% of the forwarder duty series Tigercat grapers have unsurpassed ples compliment the service access to all cycle is spent loading crane with larger load electrical, mechanical and unloading. The high area capacities at 0,43 and hydraulic sysm2 (4.6 ft2) and 0,53 tems. Access to the capacity FG43 and FG53 m2 (5.7 ft2) respecdriveline and series grapples increase the engine, tively. The grapples pumps is through the are fitted with thick tilt-out hood enclosure number of logs per crane walled bushings for and tilting cab. All cycle and complement the extended service life. the hydraulic valves The link has a patent and computer control powerful F195T85. pending hose routing modules are located design to better proin one compartment tect the hoses and the swing in a machine cab for long pe- in the wagon frame. Easily acdampener has been designed riods. A quiet environment is cessed from ground level, hyfor heavy duty. important for operator com- draulic adjustments are simple fort and productivity. The to perform. Electrical reliability Operator’s Station forwarder cab is insulated, is excellent due to short wire Tigercat forwarders are and isolation mounted for re- runs between the control modequipped with a modern, well duced noise levels and vibra- ules and valves located immedifinished, spacious cab with tion. Sound insulation is used ately beside them.

The Tigercat 1075C forwarder specs at a glance: Tigercat FTP N67 engine with 308HP; Heavy-duty Tigercat construction for demanding forwarding applications; Tigercat hooked cranes are easier to operate and increase the working envelope; Tigercat F195T85 crane & telescopic stick with massive 195kN-m lift torque; High-capacity Tigercat FG43 grapples; Extreme-duty widespread Tigercat 25 tonne rated bogie axles for high performance on steep terrain and low ground pressure when equipped with tracks; Long life centre section is equipped with tapered roller bearings in the articulation and oscillation joints; Comfortable, ergonomic cab design with excellent all-round visibility and automotive style finish.

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 27

Forwarders “Your comfort is guaranteed by the revolutionary operator station that automatically levels and rotates ensuring faster load cycles, but if preferred the durable fixed cabin remains an option”

New standard for forwarding heavy loads over difficult terrain John Deere’s cut-to-Length, Joensuu factory in Finland has produced in excess of 11, 000 John Deere branded wheeled forestry harvesting machines and before that produced the globally renowned Timberjack wheeled harvesters and forwarders. In total the factory has manufactured well over 25,000 units. Today, the factory produces the full range E & G Series John Deere forwarders of which two models are shipped to Australia and New Zealand -- the 1510G and 1910E. The most powerful forwarder ever built by Deere, the 1910E sets a new standard for forwarding heavy loads over difficult terrain.

Boasting almost 250 hp and a tractive effort of 220 kN, the 1910E is the natural choice for those encountering steep slopes and large timber which is effortlessly handled by the Deere CF8 loader. And, of course, your comfort is guaranteed by the revolutionary operator’s station which automatically levels and rotates ensuring faster load cycles, but if preferred the durable fixed cabin remains an option.

The 1510G forwarder features improvements to the engine, cabin ergonomics, control system, powertrain and boom and again offers either the levelling and rotating cabin or fixed cab version. A larger 180-cm³ work pump, larger drive motor with 209hp, together with improved boom 28

control ensure your productivity day in day out.

Benefiting from increased power and tractive effort the 1510G boasts all the attributes you would expect from a market leading forwarder. A powerful yet efficient John Deere 6068 PowerTech Plus, 6.8L engine delivering 220hp and high tractive force of 185kN combined with a smooth powerful boom and of course, the new revolutionary operating environment adds up to improved reliability, productivity and lower operating costs.

Maximum performance John Deere continues to control their own destiny with engine technology. The only supplier of CTL machines to manufacture their own engines ensuring maximum performance from your forwarder, and other forestry machines, combined with exceptional fuel economy.

JDLink John Deere’s machine control and monitoring system transfers data through MTG (Modular Telematics Gateway) and mobile phone connection. In areas where there is not mobile phone coverage a satellite connection can be alternatively used. The JDLink main screen gives a good understanding of how the machine is performing right away: Location of forestry machines: Most recent base machine and system alarms;

Functionality of the remote connection; Operating hours and maintenance tracking; With JDLink Ultimate more information can be obtained: Fuel information: fuel rate l/h and fuel tank level; Fuel consumption per day, l/day; Maximum hydraulic oil and coolant temperatures; Odometer; Time range and high range distance traveled; Engine utilization (low, medium and high load); Curfew function; Geofencing function.

All John Deere forestry machines now come with five years free subscription to JDLink.

The John Deere TimberMatic F-16 control system features a configurable user interface, cruise control and inclination display. New control modules, simple CAN busses and a streamlined electrical system improves the efficiency of machine functions. Performance and precision provide a combination of balance and strength for superior operation and productivity.

Leading the way IBC - Intelligent boom control changes the logic of operating a forwarder boom. With a Conventional boom the operator needs to simultaneously control the individual movements of the main boom, jib and extension cylinders, and synchronize them for the required movement of the boom tip. With an IBC boom the operator just controls the position of the boom tip and the

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 www.timberbiz.com.au

Forwarders

MORE CUBIC METERS WITH IBC

+1 MORE/DAY

system takes care of the synchronization of the cylinder movements.

Intelligent boom control functions intuitively – it makes the boom work like the extension of an operator’s arm.

The customer value proposition provided

by IBC technology is very clear – by making forwarder boom operation easier, smoother and faster - IBC has an immediate impact on productivity, by up to an additional load per shift – and that typically equates 7 to 10% of incremental production.

Both experienced and new operators tell us that IBC machines are an absolute joy to drive – and that makes IBC a competitive advantage for contractors in attracting and retaining the best available operators, and it helps new operators to become productive sooner.

Intelligent Boom Control from an Australian viewpoint In August 2017, Merrett Logging of Penola took delivery of the first 1910E IBC sold into Australia; that machine has been trouble free for over 4,000 hours, and based on the success of this unit Merrett’s have invested in another IBC forwarder and their first 1270G wheeled harvester with IBC. Says Mitch Baugh operator of the second IBC forwarder: “I have driven competitive machines www.timberbiz.com.au

to John Deere, a John Deere 1710D and put more than 11,000 hours on my previous John Deere standard ESeries forwarder. I was given my current 1910E with IBC and have done over 450 hours with the new machine and consistently produced one more load per day, used less fuel doing it and felt much more relaxed after a full day’s work, than when driving a forwarder with a conventional loader. Combine IBC with leveling and rotating cabin and you can’t get much more operator friendly than this combination. The machine is smoother and much easier to operate, quieter due to the cylinder dampening on the loader, and I would imagine would make new operators become more productive quicker.”

Says John Merrett: “ IBC is proving to be the next real thing in advancement for forwarders, it’s done everything John Deere said it would, produce more wood, lower operating costs and make our operators more comfortable with less stress and we bought it after looking at a video.

“Time will tell, but I am confident that the initial investment in IBC that we calculated would be paid off in 30 days, is well worth the money we paid for it. So much so that we have now got our first John Deere wheeled harvester working with IBC. “The machine was only delivered a couple of

+220 MORE/DAY

+m3 MORE/DAY

weeks ago but our operator Bomber, who has been operating wheeled harvesters for 18 years with Merrett Logging, is really blown away. We will be able to compare productivity and the other benefits over the next few months, but like the forwarders, are expecting good things from our new IBC 1270G,” John said.

A summary Of IBC benefits to the customer and operator: Improved productivity; Lower fuel consumption; Shorter learning time for new operators; Improved ergonomics and less operator fatigue; Operator retention; Longer boom life due to improved durability.

John Deere is the only manufacturer of IBC technology and in Australia there is a take rate of 100% on all forwarders sold with 8.5m reach booms.

For more information contact your local John Deere Construction and Forestry dealer Queensaland, New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia, Norther Territory and Capital Territory contact RDO Equipment Sales team on 1300 008 608.

Western Australia contact AFGRI James McKillop: 0439 646 210 or jmckillop@afgri.com. au or Paul Casagrande: 0409 394 083 or pcasagrande@afgri.com.au

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 29

Guest Columnist

The environmental impact of forestry

By Joachim Nachmansohn

I

t’s important to be reminded from time to time that the forestry industry is very environmentally friendly, and makes the world a truly better place. As professionals we need to be armed with good arguments and sound reasoning when talking to non-forestry people.

Forestry produces the most renewable and sustainable material which we use to build our homes. It turns some of the atmospheric CO2 into an asset. And the industry constantly renews the forest land in a sustainable way. In fact, the world has more trees now than 100 years ago, in spite of a huge population increase.

Therefore, just as it’s a fact that the forestry industry has increased significantly since then, it’s clear that the industry has actually contributed to the increase of forest land in the world.

In my own experience from traveling the world, and spreading a sound perspective on environmental concerns in the green sector, I sometimes get astounded when I see, not only how empty the environmentalist arguments are, but also how infected the industry has become by that alarmist rhetoric.

Now, let’s be clear; I am off course not against environmental concerns and care.

And in spite of the current 30

alarmism, I can see the nuance in the debate. But when it comes to forestry, almost the very questioning of the forestry industry becomes absurd, as the industry makes the world more environmentally friendly and sustainable by its very existence.

A major problem is the widespread public misconceptions of the forestry industry. The first misconception is that forestry would be responsible for deforestation.

However, that is the very opposite of the truth; forestry is just as much in the business of planting trees, as in harvesting

farming is important. After all, the world has 7 billion people to feed, and the number keeps growing. Regardless if the results of deforestation are deemed good or bad, it’s still not the fault of the forestry industry, as deforestation really means not using the land for forestry anymore.

A common objection to forestry is that it lowers the natural biodiversity. While this can be true, it’s not necessarily true. This is not a matter of forestry or not forestry, this is a matter of responsible vs. irresponsible forestry. And the industry as a whole is very

“I sometimes get astounded when I see, not only how empty the environmentalist arguments are, but also how infected the industry has become by that alarmist rhetoric” them. In the exact same way as a farmer is in the business of both planting and harvesting annual crops. The only difference is that trees take more time to mature.

Another misconception The second misconception is that deforestation necessarily is a bad thing. Off course it can be bad, but in many cases it’s not. The biggest reason for deforestation is the establishment of new farmland. And

committed to being responsible. Certainly so, compared to many other industries.

It’s also incredibly important to remember all the benefits that forestry gives us. And it’s not just the obvious ones like wood and paper, but also renewable energy, and not to forget microcrystalline cellulose; a key ingredient in many medicines. The industry provides thousands of products, some of which we use every day, that contributes not only

to a more sustainable world, but also provides benefits to mankind of tremendous importance.

The impact of the benefits leads us to my second big point; that sometimes the benefits for mankind is more important than the negative environmental impact. Off course this is not an environmental argument, but a moral one.

This is very important to raise in this context, as the environmental arguments often rest on a moral basis; that it’s morally wrong to treat the environment carelessly. Isn’t that the very reason why we all do care? Why would it otherwise matter if we would harm the environment?

Therefore, it’s very important to realize that the moral significance of providing mankind with places to live, energy, medicine, food and building materials etc., sometimes outmatches the moral significance of preserving biodiversity or preventing deforestation. In such cases the foundation for the environmental arguments are already rendered invalid, and can therefore not be used against the human enterprise in question, which in this case is forestry.

In summary: environmental care is a high goal, but human flourishing, and minimizing of human suffering, always remains the highest.

THE AUTHOR: Joachim Nachmansohn is an international fertilizer and soil & water management expert. Educated in Sweden with two separate masters degrees in both agriculture and soil and water management he laid a very solid foundation for his in depth research and immersion in plant nutrition, which now covers all big plant production niches such as forestry, agriculture and horticulture.

His unique specialty is Demand-Driven Fertilization, which was founded on Wallenberg Prize awarded discoveries and then was passed along to him by great innovators and scholars. Through this lineage he is the primary and officially authorized representative and keeper of this gamechanging concept.

Through his company Nachmansohn Consulting & Co he now, among other things, spreads unique clarity on the topic of plant nutrition, works with helping plant producers to optimize production, consults fertilizer producers and distributors, as well as contributes with expertise to different institutes.

He is a published columnist and article writer all over the Anglo-American world and beyond, he holds lectures and educations internationally, and not the least is an appreciated inspirational public speaker and takes on international speaking engagements, in which he shares his insights, thoughtfulness and wit.

Joachim can be reached at consulting@ joachimnachmansohn.com or visit www.joachimnachmansohn.com.

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 www.timberbiz.com.a

When emotion meets logic

50 years of enduring power Back in 1969 when we first married our V8 engine with a Scania truck, 350 hp and 920 lb-ft made for the most powerful truck on the European market. But even legends need to evolve. Today’s V8 delivers up to 730 hp and 2580 lb-ft of torque and still meets the toughest emissions standards in the world. The new generation Scania V8 – where emotion meets logic.

scania.com.au

Haulage

Factory-specification Scania XT Ready for logging work across Australia

S

cania has delivered the first of its New Truck Generation XT models to the logging industry, with Leeson’s Logging and Cartage of Rosedale in Gippsland receiving the first of three R 620 V8 prime movers in April.

These 130-tonne rated trucks have been specified for the logging industry, using experience gained over the past decade as Scania expanded its footprint in the forests of South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland.

The Scania XT is a close relative of the Scania longhaulage truck but trades an aero-efficient front valance for the protruding steel bumper and tough tow point.

Chief among the logging specification features are a high-riding dual rail reinforced chassis, 9-tonne front axle, 4100 Retarder, hub reduction drive axles, flat-bottom differentials, built-in weigh scales, 32

super single steer tyres, as begun to arrive, with several ly reduced, and by moving the well as a tough steel bumper new and long-time Scania log- driver’s seat closer to the door and 40-tonne centre-mounted ging customers ready to take and windscreen, vision when tow point. A steel front under- delivery. manoeuvring is even better run protection bar sits below than before.

Safety features the front bumper.

Ramping driver safety to a There are 700-litres of fuel The debut of the New Truck new level unmatched across onboard as well as an under- Generation cabin brings a the global industry, Scania has slung AdBlue tank mounted further advance in driver vis- added side curtain roll-over between the chassis rails. airbags both sides of the Further NTG Scania cab, to protect the occu“I’m expecting safety features fitted as pants in the event of the standard include LED truck rolling over which, Scania’s Fleet Care head and tail lamps given the operating enand Optimise to save Inside the cab, there vironment for logging, are red seat belts and could potentially save me money, and provide yellow grab handles for many lives. an overall reduction entry and exit security.

Scania also fits a large There is also the option number of active and in operating costs” of dirt-resistant leather passive safety systems to seat-facings, or optional all its trucks, justifying canvas seat covers. ibility and comfort, building the claim to be the world’s safThe logging specification on the impressive legacy of est truck. is based on the New Truck the previous PGR generation In addition to the side curGeneration Scania XT which trucks. tain airbags, all Scania trucks first arrived in Australia late in With a larger windscreen, come with a driver airbag 2018 with mining companies repositioned A-pillars and new mounted in the steering wheel the first to take delivery. Now door mirror mountings, centre, plus anti-lock brakes, the logging specification has blind-spots have been vast- advanced emergency braking,

electronic stability control, lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. Electronic braking systems can integrate with EBS-equipped logging trailers to deliver even more secure retardation, especially in adverse road conditions.

Scania customer Leeson’s Logging and Cartage has also specified the Air CTI tyre inflation system for the drive axles as well as a hydraulic tank to master control of the new Kennedy trailers the truck will pull.

Fleet Care The truck will be operated by Leeson’s Logging and Cartage on a full Scania repair and maintenance contract using Scania Fleet Care which places control of the vehicles’ servicing requirements in the hands of a specialist Scania fleet manager, leaving the customer free to focus on his core

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 www.timberbiz.com.a

Haulage

business of transportation, in return for a single monthly fixed payment.

The R 620 V8 prime movers will be pulling a 47-tonnes payload for a gross of 68.5-tonnes on 12-hour shifts travelling as far as Melbourne and Geelong, as well as delivering to the local paper mill.

“I am expecting Scania’s Fleet Care and Optimise to save me money, and provide an overall reduction in operating costs,” said Ricky Leeson, Managing Director of Leeson’s Logging and Cartage.

According to Mathew Staddon, Scania’s new truck account manager in Victoria, the new R 620 V8 is the first Scania to be delivered to Leeson’s Logging and Cartage.

“Our customer is very focused on safety, and the Scania ticks all the boxes in terms of active and passive safety, especially because the NTG Scania range comes fitted with standard side curtain rollover airbags,” he said.

“Leeson’s Logging and Cartage has always been concerned about the safety of their drivers and is always looking for ways to add to their safety.

In terms of safety, Ricky sees www.timberbiz.com.au

the acquisition of these three New Truck Generation Scania XTs doing that and leading the way for the logging industry for safety in the forest and on the highway,” Mathew said.

plan provides operators the flexibility to build exactly the vehicle they need for their application, which saves time and money and provides the most efficient solution. Reducing running costs and providing Total Operating Economy is Scania’s aim.

In addition to full repair and maintenance servicing contracts, Scania also offers Fleet Care which takes all of the fleet maintenance processes in-house at Scania, leaving operators free to concentrate on

to detect potential problems in advance, and optimise the vehicle or fleet’s service plan to achieve maximum uptime.

Service and finance

Scania can also configure a service arrangement where its factory-trained technicians “In addition, the drivers can attend in-house, rented or will be monitored via the ontemporary on-site workshops board Scania system and will to maintain or repair vehicles receive familiarisation and as well as ensure sufficient efficiency training from the supplies of spare parts are kept Scania Driver Trainers. They on hand. will also keep in touch via Scania Finance Australia Scania’s follow-up coaching is able to provide program, to ensure a tailored financial the efficiency and “Tailored solutions plan plan for all types of safety tips continue businesses, using to be practised over provides operators the a variety of finanthe longer term.” flexibility to build exactly the cial instruments that The New Truck suit each individual Generation Scania vehicle they need for their circumrange can be ordered application, which saves time customer’s stances. in XT logging spec, The Scania Driver from the G-series and money and provides the Support system is an mid-size all-rounder most efficient solution.” on-board assistant fitted with a 13-litre that provides conengine with up to 500hp and 2550 Nm of torque building their business, rather tinuous driver feedback on on tap, to the R-series cab with than worrying about their ve- driving style, safety and fuel efficiency and delivers a sum500 hp – 730hp (with up to hicles.

Scania Fleet Care provides mary after a completed assign3500 Nm of torque). Chassis configurations range from 6x4 a nominated fleet manager to ment. The system is designed to 6x6, with 8x8 to follow next support planning, coordina- to work in-line with the Scania tion and administration of all Driver Training Programme year.

Scania’s tailored solutions fleet services, who will work in order to reduce wear and

Coaching program

maintain a consistently fuelefficient driving style.

“The Scania XT is perfectly set-up for a range of forestry applications on sealed and unsealed surfaces,” said Mikael Jansson, Managing Director of Scania Australia.

“Trucks like these cover significant distances each year, so efficient fuel use is of great importance to the operator,” he said.

“Of course, the Scania XT features all the pertinent safety features and equipment needed to provide the greatest level of safety and safe operation to protect drivers from harm, unnecessary downtime and inconvenience,” he said.

“The logging and forestry industry face increasing demands for sustainable and cost-effective production and Scania stands ready to deliver.

“We have the right products, the right services, and the right skills to help Australian logging operators specify the perfect vehicle for their needs, securing maximum uptime and enhanced total operating economy, protecting their profitability, and therefore enhancing their long-term business sustainability,” Mikael said.

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 33

Forest Machines

Heavy-duty and purpose built carrier that does it all Tigercat releases largest machine in its forestry line-up

T

igercat continues to set the bar high with the introduction of the new 890 logger – the largest machine in the Tigercat forestry equipment line-up.

It’s a heavy duty, purposebuilt forestry carrier that can be configured for loading, shovel logging or processing.

Weighing 47,900kg (105,600 lb), the Tigercat 890 is the largest, highest capacity machine in Tigercat’s purpose-built forestry product line. The Tigercat FPT C87 engine delivers 245 kW (330 hp) at 2,000 rpm for Tier

34

2 and Tier 4 emission compliance.

The large swing bearing provides increased capacity and swing torque. The twin swing drive system reduces gear tooth loads, and a massive single-piece, forged pedestal strengthens the undercarriage and improves durability.

A new, longer F7-172 heavy-duty10 roller track frame with a wide stance carbody gives the 890 exceptional stability. Track components are co-designed with Berco to provide maximum

durability in forestry applications.

The 890 logger shares the modular main hydraulic valve with all other Tigercat 800 series carriers for improved parts commonality.

With the ability to easily swap out a valve section, the modular design simplifies maintenance. New larger capacity valve sections are used for main and stick boom circuits to provide higher flow rates and improve efficiency.

The 890 has plenty of cooling capacity with an automatic variable speed fan for

improved fuel efficiency and an automatic reversing cycle to clean the heat exchangers.

Another fuel saving feature is the energy recovery swing system. A closed loop drive feeds power back to the engine when swing decelerates, reducing fuel consumption and recovering energy for other machine functions.

Service access is outstanding with the power operated side engine door and overhead roof enclosure. The entire upper assembly is designed for extreme duty. Heavy wall side bumpers and a solid cast coun-

terweight protect the upper assembly from impacts when swinging.

Convenient walk-up access to the rear entry door leads to a generous interior cab. The cabin is quiet and comfortable with excellent visibility. The full-length front window and additional floor windows provide clear sightlines. The high output climate control system keeps the operator comfortable even in temperature extremes. LED lighting and the new rearVIEW camera system improve operator visibility.

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 www.timberbiz.com.a

MOVE MORE WITH VOLVO Volvo L220H “Our decision to invest in Volvo Construction Equipment was based on a productive, economic and reliability package with on-going back up support. We’re certainly pleased with the partnership we have with CJD Equipment which includes on-site service and maintenance.”

- Dean Smith Log Yard Supervisor

Timberlink

Timber is in high demand in Australia, and Timberlink’s Bell Bay operation is the only large scale, forest integrated plantation softwood Sawmilling Company located in Tasmania producing their widest range of commodities. Timberlink relies on the Volvo L220H wheel loader to deliver power, productivity and reliability in their high throughput log yard operation. Featuring a premium Volvo engine and perfectly matched drivetrain and hydraulics the L220H can unload and stack a B-Double load of logs in under eight minutes.

MEET THE TEAM:

L110H 18,560 kg / 190 kW

L120H

L150H

19,420 kg / 203 kW

24,090 kg / 220 kW

L180H

27,060 kg / 245 kW

L220H

31,190 kg / 273 kW

WANT TO PUT ONE TO THE TEST? CALL 1300 139 804 FOR A FREE DEMONSTRATION & QUOTE

BIG ENOUGH TO TRUST SMALL ENOUGH TO CARE www.cjd.com.au | 1300 139 804 | enquiries@cjd.com.au Facebook.com/cjdequipment

Linkedin.com/company/cjd-equipment

Instagram.com/cjd_equipment Images are for illustration purposes only.

Log Loaders

Volvo L220H loader spearheads efficiencies in Tasmanian timber operation

E

nhanced safety with increased productivity and outstanding fuel economy gains are key reasons why Timberlink, Tasmania, specified two new Volvo wheel loaders to manage their high throughput log yard operation.

Timberlink’s modern Bell Bay operation is the only large scale, forest integrated plantation softwood sawmilling company located in Tasmania where they produce their widest range of commodities. The product mix includes structural framing, outdoor structural framing, fencing, landscaping, decorative timbers and industrial supplies. They directly employ over 200 people and engage predominantly local contractors and businesses to support their Bell Bay operation. The indirect contribution to the local economy is estimated at $150M. Timberlink Bell Bay in conjunction with their treatment supply partner Lonza, developed their innovative “Low Odour Timberlink Green” range of products. The new 36

another sawmilling operation, where they were impressed with the reliability and economy of the Volvo machine.

Specifying the L220H as the main loader in the log yard increased productivity considerably because it is more than capable of lifting an entire bay of logs off a truck in one lift.

“The power of the L220H gives us greater Technological gains “Adopting new efficiencies through increased productivity and technologies and At Timberlink’s Bell economy gains beBay sawmilling operaspecifying components fuel cause the machine isn’t tion, Log Yard Superviworking beyond its caaccording to need sor Dean Smith believes operator Scotty that adopting new techrather than tradition will pability,” Harris said. “We can unnologies and specifying load and stack a B-Doucomponents according lead to higher profits ble load of logs in under to need rather than tradifor the company” eight minutes with either tion, will lead to higher machine. profits for the company, “We’re very pleased with despite timber prices almost details were correct to ensure remaining static for the last the machines would do ‘what our turnaround time for undecade, due in no small part to it says on the tin’. The overall loading, on average, from package was very competitive the time a log truck arrives cheaply imported products.

Smith monitors the process- too so all in all this prompt- at the weighbridge, they can es and movements in the log ed us to choose Volvo once be unloaded and back on the weighbridge within 15-mintyard with the sharpened pen- again.”

Dean and his team are no ues,” Scotty added. cil of an accountant. Combining a broad knowledge of the strangers to operating Volvo Versatility sawmilling industry and his equipment, having previously understanding of production run an L180C wheel loader in “The L180G is used as a patent pending product is a world first with 30 times less odour, which creates a more pleasant workplace for customers and end-users while still retaining the superior strength, stability and appearance of traditional LOSP products.

Today, timber in Australia is in high demand.

practices with consideration for future demands, he configures his loaders to safeguard the highest interests of the company.

“We found the CJD team to be very proactive in working with us to agree on the specification of the L220H and L180G and checking all the

secondary machine in the log yard,” Dean explained. “It’s more than capable of keeping the mill fed with fresh logs and equally at home unloading log trucks. Being a little smaller gives it the agility to perform other tasks around the mill and the simplicity of the quick hitch attachments makes swapping from the log grapple to a bucket a quick operation and adds to the machine’s versatility.”

The new L220H model is powered by a 13-litre Stage IV Final engine (373hp) and benefits from Volvo designed

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 www.timberbiz.com.a

Log Loaders

and manufactured driveline components, including the company’s Optishift system with torque converter lock-up and reverse-by-braking features – all designed to deliver better fuel economy.

Meanwhile, a 13-litre D13F-C engine (334hp) powers the L180G, a mere 39 horsepower less than the L220H. In addition to the productivity gains, the Volvo wheel loaders also have an ROPS/ FOPS operator’s cabin with a fully adjustable suspension seat. The cab is fully air conditioned, and all critical machine functions are displayed on an LCD screen located within the operator’s field of vision.

Scotty cites the rear view camera as a great asset and safety feature especially with

www.timberbiz.com.au

the addition of the blue light for night work.

He adds that the dash panel clearly displays all the vital machine information including fuel and oil levels along with warning messages even in bright sunlight all at a glance without hindering forward vision.

Fast response

up the ramp with a full grab of logs,” Scotty explained.

“I’ve found this gives good economy while still achieving maximum productivity.”

For ease of operation, Timberlink specified the optional, multi-functional joystick, which gives their operators simultaneous and precise control of the hydraulic functions. Forward, reverse and

Volvo’s load-sensing hydraulics are said to be at the forefront in “The power of the artificial intelligence, L220H gives us greater by supplying power to the hydraulic functions efficiencies through according to demand, increased productivity further lowering fuel consumption. The powand fuel economy erful hydraulic system gains because the ensures fast response for shorter cycle times machine isn’t working while delivering smooth beyond its capability” operation through superior control of both the kick-down functions are inload and the attachment.

Volvo’s unique eco pedal cluded on the console.

As you’d expect on a loadapplies mechanical pushback force when the accel- er working in a log yard, Volerator is used excessively vo’s unique Torque Parallel and engine RPM is about to (TP) linkage is a huge advanexceed the economic operat- tage, delivering high breaking range. This encourages out torque and excellent parthe operator to ease off the allel movement throughout throttle, reducing fuel con- the entire lifting range.

Timberlink specified the sumption.

“I normally run the loader optional Boom Suspension at 1400 RPM around the log System (BSS) that enables yard, but increase the revs faster and more comfortto 1600 RPM when going able work cycles to further

increase productivity and safety while at the same time extend the machine’s life. That’s because Volvo’s unique BSS absorbs shock and reduces the bouncing that occurs when operating on rough ground such as a log yard.

Scotty Harris believes that the cabin environment is one of the best he’s experienced.

“It’s certainly one of the more spacious cabs in this class of loader yet all the controls are sensibly positioned within easy reach.

It is also very quiet in the cabin and the smooth ride means I’m not exhausted at the end of the shift. One thing these Volvo loaders do well is remove the dust in the air,” Scotty revealed.

Volvo has located the cabin air intake high on the machine, where air is cleanest.

There is an easy to replace pre-filter that separates coarser dust particles before the air passes through the main filter and finally enters the cabin.

The design of the Volvo air system allows 90 per cent of the cabin air to be recirculated through the main filter for continuous dust removal.

The engine bay features a hydraulically driven reversible cooling fan that is electronically controlled to regu-

late the temperature of the vital components. It automatically activates only when it’s needed further reducing fuel consumption and noise. The reversible functionality which blows air in the opposite direction, allows for self-cleaning of the cooling units.

Both the front and the rear axle feature an axle oil circulation feature that allows the axle oil to flow and cool inside the axle protecting vital components.

“Our two Volvo loaders are enrolled in the CareTrack program and CJD monintor the machines via satellite,” Dean Smith explained. “They (CJD) know how each machine is going at any given time and when servicing is required which allows us to focus on what we are good at and that’s sawmilling.”

“Our decision to invest in Volvo Construction Equipment was essentially based on a productive, economic and reliability package with on-going back up support,” Dean concluded. “Those two machines average 90 hours each per week and in their first 12 months had each clocked up almost 5500 hours. Consequently, we’re certainly pleased with the partnership we have with CJD in Launceston which includes onsite service and maintenance.”

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 37

Steep Slope Logging

Felling with NO Breaks This is an abridged version of an article by John Ellegard, NZ Logger

T

here’s nothing more frustrating than watching an impressive 35-metre tall radiata pine topple to the ground and then shatter into two or more pieces.

Unfortunately, this is a sight that is all too familiar in logging operations throughout New Zealand forests, with some estimates putting breakages as high as 75% – that’s three quarters of the crop!

Amazingly, it’s accepted as normal practice by forest companies and contractors alike.

But now something is being done about it.

Hardly surprising. Fixed head feller-bunchers have been popular in ground-based Eucalyptus forests across the Tasman for many years, notably the US-style disc saw and shear head models that can cut and accumulate multiple stems and place them accurately and, most importantly, 38

gently on the ground. This results in better bunching for the skidder and virtually no breakages.

But disc saws don’t work so well with large diameter pines, which led to fixed head chainsaw models being developed and becoming mandatory in some Australian forests, particularly those under the management of HVP Plantations in the state of Victoria.

A Kiwi was involved in the HVP decision and on moving back to New Zealand, Ian Wilson has become the catalyst for a similar change that is now taking place here. That change can be precisely pinpointed to a discussion that Ian, now Director of Operations with ForestPHD (the company that owns the STICKS harvesting software), had with two Nelson contractors, which set things in motion.

Nathan Taylor and Hamish Matthews had recently established Mechanised Cable Harvesting (MCH) in partnership with their old boss, Ross Wood. They are fervent

believers in using mechanisation to create a safer working environment, along with making the most of technology to enable their operations to become more efficient and more productive.

Good use of information That led to talks with Ian about using the data from their harvesting equipment via the STICKS cloud-based software programme to understand what they are doing and how they could make good use of the information gleaned from the machines. Ian Nathan and Hamish went down the path to putting a fixed felling head with lateral rotation onto a new levelling felling machine for their Nelson operation – the first of its type in New Zealand – and discovering what a huge difference this style of machine can make to minimising felling breakages and improving the way they extract trees on steep terrain.

This is hardly news to Aussie contractors. People like Andrew Mahnken, from

Mountain Logging in Gippsland, Victoria had discovered the benefits of using fixed felling heads to harvest full stems long ago, says Ian. And HVP became aware of it when the company decided to take a more holistic approach to their value recovery program around 2003, rather than just focusing on the log making phase.

“There were contractors who already had fixed heads on their feller bunchers, like Andrew Mahnken and he was very much aware of what could be done – he’s an incredibly knowledgeable guy in steep slope tree length logging and, in my opinion, he’d be the leader in the Southern Hemisphere when it comes to felling heads.”

The fixed felling heads being used at that time included the US-built Timbco 33” barsaw, and a suite of Aussie designed and built heads such as VHLC LogMate and PulpMate, Rosin Developments’ CF750 and CF800 and Waratah’s FL235 via its purchase

of Unicon from Dennis Smith.

The LogMate, PulpMate, CF750, CF800 and FL235 had the added advantage that they had full lateral rotation, so could shovel, load trucks and put in extraction tracks if needed, turning the feller buncher into a real multi-purpose machine.

Ian says HVP took a very commendable approach to this gain, saying: “We didn’t go into it for productivity gains.

We said the value for us is in the tree crop and if there’s gains for the contractor in productivity, let them have it.”

That approach helped win over contractors when HVP went on to make fixed felling heads mandatory in its treelength harvesting operations, much as it did when the use of harvester optimisation became non-negotiable a couple of years earlier.

Zero breakage aim Ian says the goal was for zero tree felling breakage, i.e. eliminate it altogether, but the realism is that you’ll likely

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 www.timberbiz.com.a

Steep Slope Logging ■■ Neat herring-bone bunching: Mountain Logging’s Timberpro TL755 controlled felling in Gippsland.

never ever eliminate it and instead, stem breakage minimisation would be a better description…but there’s no harm in shooting for the moon! And that’s the way it’s been in HVP Plantations’ tree-length harvesting operations for the last 15 years.

So, when the discussion with Mechanised Cable Harvesting about how to capitalise on the information that STICKS had shown took place, which wasn’t long after Ian had returned to New Zealand, Ian used the opportunity to update the Nelson pair on his experiences in Australia, including the topic of fixed felling heads.

“I floated the concept of what Andrew Mahnken was doing and showed them some photos of all the stems nicely laid out on the hill and with minimal felling breakage, and Nathan said ‘that’s impressive, we should be doing something like that here’, which really got the ball rolling,” says Ian. It wasn’t long before Nathan and Hamish jumped on a plane bound for Australia to visit Andrew Mahnken’s Mountain Logging Operations in Gippsland and www.timberbiz.com.au

see first-hand how they could up their game in Nelson.

“I really take my hat off to them – they did all of it off their own bat. They built up a really good relationship with Andrew and he allowed them to operate his fixed head feller bunchers and speak in-depth with the operators, and once they had seen them working first-hand in conditions that were similar to their ones in Nelson, then they couldn’t see any reason why this style of felling machine wouldn’t be as affective in New Zealand as they were in Australia.”

When Nathan and Hamish formed this crew four years ago, they inherited the original Ross Woods winch-assist bulldozer up on the hill tethering a John Deere 909 base with a harvester boom set and a traditional dangle felling head feeding their yarder on the landing.

They’ve since updated the winch-assist machine to a more versatile excavatorbased version built by EMS, which has recently been joined by the very latest Timberpro TL765D and KF 800 fixed head, both are the first to go to work in New Zealand

and supplied by Komatsu Forest.. Extraction from the hill has also improved with the addition of a Falcon grapple carriage.

There were other options but Nathan and Hamish had seen the KF800 fixed felling head and the TimberPro base on display at the AUSTimber 2016 show.

“Bloody impressive” Although they liked what they saw, it was only after having their initial discussion with Ian that they were spurred into action. “Ian put us in touch with Andrew and we spent three or four days with him, it was bloody impressive and he was really helpful.

“We looked at the different types of fixed heads they operate over in Aussie and the one that seemed the best application for what we wanted to do was the KF800 because it could shovel as well as fall and bunch.”

Back in New Zealand, Nathan and Hamish weighed up their options after an informative chat with Brett Jones from Komatsu Forest, they decided to take the plunge and go for the all-new TimberPro

TL765D feller buncher base and KF800 combination, which would be set up right from the start.

Then came the process of learning how to make best use of the new TimberPro and KF800 fixed head combo.

Hamish explains that the controls are pretty much the same as on felling machines with dangle heads, but the last thing you want to do is cut a tree and just let it fall to the ground, which will likely result in stem breakage – it needs to be a controlled process. Even while the crew was still learning to use the of feller buncher, Nathan and Hamish could see results immediately.

“First tree it cut we could see it working the way we envisaged – we could see the benefits there in front of us, grabbing and then placing that tree into a precise bunch and not breaking it,” says Nathan.

Tweaked But there wasn’t quite the speed they had expected for a big 40-tonne machine boasting 255kW (342hp) of engine power and associated hydraulic performance. Clearly there

were some early gremlins which were eventually ironed out by Komatsu Forest technicians and it’s now running at full steam.

“150% better than when we first got it – just had to be tweaked,” adds Nathan.

So, have they completely eliminated stem breakages with the new TimberPro/ KF800 combo?

Pretty much, say Nathan and Hamish. Compared to where they were with a dangle head, it’s a massive leap forward and the proof can easily be seen in the number of fully intact stems brought up to the landing and via the harvester data using STICKS. “Every time I see full stems come up on the wire I smile,” says Nathan.

Being able to log-make a whole stem allows the processor’s optimisation system to really select log combinations that return better value.

That’s how true optimisation works. Sure, it can still make logs from the broken parts, but it’s not as effective as if it had been working with a full Continued on Page 40

Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 39

Steep Slope Logging

Felling with NO Breaks Continued from Page 39

stem, plus a full stem is much faster and less work for the operator.

The only broken stems that make it up onto the landing these days are cut from windthrow and the way the fixed head has been able to cope in these tangles of trees has been a revelation.

“Fixed heads normally don’t work well in windthrow but the KF800 does because of its full lateral rotation and the degree of fore and aft movement,” says Hamish, adding that it has a ‘float’ mode that makes it work a little like a dangle head to provide some extra movement.

That good range of movement allows it to shovel well

and the ability to place even part-stems into handy bunches in a controlled manner is another plus for the KF800.

Being able to bunch more effectively on the hill has been a key factor in the success of the fixed felling head introduction, as the yarder operator uses less time attempting to grab a good load in the Falcon’s grapple.

More multi-stem loads and fewer singles are arriving on the landing than ever before and that’s helped keep the processor well fed.

Guard added The KF800 has to ‘manhandle’ trees weighing anything up to six or seven tonnes. The head itself weighs in around 3.5 tonnes and that includes the guard that Hamish and Na-

than added after it arrived to protect the joints at the top.

It’s fitted with a 40” saw that boasts very good speed, thanks to the excellent hydraulic flows, plus the saw can cut past 180 degrees, making it a simple and quick process to scarf-cut a tree without moving the base if the need arises.

The TL765D is mostly familiar to us. Last year we tested the C-series model that is working for Kuru Logging over behind Tolaga Bay on the East Coast and we were impressed.

This D-series model has been upgraded with a redesigned cab that incorporates a larger side door for easier entry and exit. Together with a wider, deeper and taller front

screen, this redesign now provides more glass area and increases the operator’s exterior vision. The hydraulic performance has also been improved with fine tuning and the slew torque has also been increased by changing the size of the dual slew motors, giving it a clear performance edge in the market.

The tethered hitch is now fitted as standard for contractors like MCH who use the machine in a winch-assist harvesting system. There is also another model, the TimberPro TL775, which comes with a longer 10-roller track frame in place of the standard 9-roller unit.

Seeing the TimberPro/ KF800 cut, lift, turn and gently place large full-grown trees on

the ground feels like witnessing felling in slow motion, yet it isn’t any slower than how an operator would drop a tree with a dangle head. Taking into account that the operator with the fixed head machine doesn’t have to grab the stem again and drag it into a bunch, the fixed head is definitely quicker overall.

In the meantime, a lot of foresters are watching the progress of Nathan and Hamish and their crew. A number of forest managers and contractors from around the country have already visited their operation to witness their industry-leading approach to minimising felling breakage and better bunching, and we’ll undoubtedly see it adopted by others soon.

Just Arrived…

TimberPro 40

TL 775D Australian Forests & Timber News May 2019 www.timberbiz.com.a

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t n e m p i u q E y r t s e r o F h a t Wara

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