Australian Forests & Timber News

JUNE 2014 Issue 3 Vol. 24 • P: (03) 9888 4834 • E: m.dolphin@ryanmediapl.com.au • www.timberbiz.com.au

Chip exports to be ‘ramped up’ W

OODCHIP EXPORTS out of Tasmania are set to ramp up following the sale of Gunns’ timber plantations to New Forests.

The Sydney-based company bought 176,000 hectares of freehold land, including 100,000 hectares of timber plantations owned by the collapsed Tasmanian timber company. It has also bought chip mills at Hampshire in the northwest and Longreach, on the Tamar River. [The transaction completion is scheduled by 30 June] The sale also secures the jobs of 150 harvesting and haulage contractors.

Chief executive officer David Brand told the ABC the aim was to ramp up woodchip exports and then possibly look at processing the wood domestically.

New Forests has come a long way since being formed. It was on July 1, 2005, that Hancock Timber Resource Group, the world’s largest Timberland Investment Management Organization announced the sale of its Australiabased New Forests Program in

a management buy-out to David Brand, the director of the business.

Just who is the man behind the New Forests success story, what are the core values he and his team work by, what is the NF current asset base, and what have been its milestone events. Australian Forests & Timber News answers these questions in this special focus on New Forests.

David gained his B.Sc.F., Forestry at the University of Toronto, Faculty of Forestry, Canada, in 1978, then gained his Ph.D., Forestry at the University of British Columbia, Faculty of Forestry, Canada, in 1985. Following that he worked as a Research Scientist, Silviculture/Program Director, Forest Management Systems for Petawawa National Forestry Institute, Canadian Forest Service, Chalk River, Canada (1985-1990).

He then took over the role as Acting Director-General, Science and Sustainable Development/ Director, Sustainable Development/Director, Environment for the Canadian

Forest Service, Department of Natural Resources Canada, Ottawa, Canada (1990-1995).

Next came his move to Australia and he was appointed executive general manager of State Forests of New South Wales (now known as Forestry Corporation NSW). David filled that role from 1995-2000 then joined the Hancock Natural Resource Group (Australia), Sydney, as its director of new forests programs.

Now, as head of New Forests (an investment management business supporting an internationally diversified client base of institutional and other qualified wholesale investors) he and his team still work by a four-point core value system – responsible investment; third party certification; transparency; and continual improvement.

New Forests’ assets and funds under management (at April 30, 2014) are more than AU$2.3 billion across investment funds in Australia, Southeast Asia, and the United States. Its timberland area under management is (once the

AFCA chief executive quits COL MCCULLOCH has quit his role as chief executive officer of the Australian Forest Contractors Association, citing “directional differences” as the reason behind the move.

Col said he had been given a “directional” choice but had chosen to resign. “I’m going back into the bush,” he said, “getting my hands dirty. I’m pretty happy with that.” Col has been appointed HR manager for the Kevin Morgan Group.

According to an official statement

Inside:

from AFCA, a board meeting in Maroochydore late May decided to undertake a major review of AFCA’s operational structure.

With a growing array of political, professional development and local business issues to assist with and develop around the country, the board determined a team approach using the skills and experience of a broader range of people to address specific issues would be the best approach.

• NEED FOR FORESTRY/ FIBRE PLAN

continued on page 4.

 Col McCulloch.

• HALF OF FORESTRY • PLANTATION SA WORKFORCE PRODUCTIVITY TO GO CAN BE DOUBLED

Gunns transaction is complete): • Net stocked area: 340,000 ha in Australia • Gross area: 530,000 ha in Australia • Net stocked area in Malaysia: 12,000 ha • Gross timber asset area in Malaysia: 18,000 hectares (does not include 34,000 ha conservation investment) • Global timber stocked area: 350,000 ha • Global timber gross area: 550,000 ha continued on page 3.

 Dr. David Brand.

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Australian Forests & Timber News, June 2014 – 3

Chip exports to be ‘ramped up’ continued from page 1.

Dr Brand’s positivity for both New Forests and the industry were highlighted during a recent speaking engagement in Mount Gambier (the “capital” of the Green Triangle).

"We have a substantial position in both hardwood and softwood timber. On the softwood side we have a very strong business including the whole supply chain from the forest to the customer via the Timberlink Australia business,” Dr Brand had told the gathering.

“Our hardwood business expanded substantially last year as we bought the Managed Investment Scheme plantations originally established by APT and Great Southern Plantations.

“Our business now includes the sale of domestic softwood sawlogs, the export of surplus softwood sawlogs to China, and the export of softwood and hardwood woodchips to Japan, China and most recently India. In addition, via Timberlink we are the third largest timber producer and distributor in Australia.

“When we bought our softwood forests in both Tasmania and the Green Triangle, thinning operations were up to two years behind schedule,” he had told the gathering.

“This hot China market is letting us aggressively catch up

our silviculture programs and ensure we have properly managed forests. We are aiming to ship about one 25,000 to 30,000 tonne load of small softwood sawlogs per month, combining the cargo from Burnie in Tasmania and Portland in Victoria.” Dr Brand predicted that in two or three years the Port of Portland may need to handle three million green metric tonnes per annum of hardwood woodchip, 1 million green metric tonnes of softwood woodchip per annum, 1.5 million tonnes of softwood logs, and 0.5 million tonnes of hardwood logs.

“That means about 90 woodchip vessels per annum and probably about 75 log ships per annum—a significant increase in the cargo being transferred through that port.

“We are also expanding our Tarpeena mill over the next two years from the current 460,000 tonnes per annum of sawlog intake to up 600,000 tonnes per annum. To do that we are investing about $20 million into the green mill, drying kilns and dry mill operations. About $8 million of this is coming from a South Australian Government grant. The basic sawmill technology in Tarpeena hasn’t been updated since the 1990s so this will increase throughput and efficiency and cut our production costs by about 10% per cubic metre of timber produced,” Dr Brand had said.

New Forests' milestone moments • Company launches in July 2005 and expands the Sydney office to support a growing investment and advisory client base.

• The company is awarded an Australian Financial Services Licence in July 2006.

• Establishes US presence in May 2007 to capitalise on growing investment interest in environmental markets in the US. • Launches the Eco Products Fund in partnership with Equator LLC in January 2008. (US fund investing in environmental markets for forest carbon and mitigation banking) • In August 2008, opens subsidiary New Forests Asia to manage assets in the Southeast Asian region and capitalise on growing institutional interest in forestry investment in this region.

• In July 2010, New Forests receives an expanded Australian Financial Services Licence and becomes a signatory to the UN Principles for Responsible Investment.

• In September 2010, New Forests closes the $500 million Australia New Zealand Forest Fund.

• New Forests closes $415 million acquisition, on behalf of its clients, of 270,000 hectares of Australian forest land from the receivers of Great Southern Plantations and crosses the milestone of $1 billion in assets under management.

• In 2011 launches Forest Carbon Partners, an investment vehicle to supply the California carbon market with high quality forest carbon offsets and enters initial transactions with landowners in 2012.

• In early 2012, New Forests takes a significant position in Australian softwood markets acquiring 46,000 hectares of radiata pine plantation in Tasmania (Taswood Growers Estate) and 40,000 hectares of radiata pine plantation in the Green Triangle region of Victoria and South Australia (former Auspine Ltd estate).

• New Forests completes first close of the Tropical Asia Forest Fund in June 2012 with commitments of $100 million.

• In January 2013 New Forests acquires timber processing, marketing and distribution assets with establishment of Timberlink Australia (acquisition of the assets of Gunns Timber Products Pty Ltd).

• In June 2013 New Forests completes initial close of the Australia New Zealand Forest Fund 2 with commitments of $570 million.

• In July 2013 New Forests announces the first transaction and final close of the Tropical Asia Forest Fund with $170 million in commitments and first investment of the TAFF with acquisition of 18,000 ha Acacia mangium plantation in Malaysia.

• I n March 2014 New Forests announces the final close of the AU$707 million Australia New Zealand Forest Fund 2 and announces ANZFF’s initial transaction, acquisition of 20,000 ha eucalyptus plantation land estate.

• I n April 2014 New Forests announces the agreement to purchase the Tasmanian forestry estate of Gunns Ltd.

Desperate need for national forestry and fibre plan A

USTRALIAN FOREST Products Association boss Ross Hampton is firmly of the belief that we need a national plan for forestry and fibre and a nationally organised, coordinated, industry-led global scale research and development organisation.

But he’s a realist, too. Speaking after the Federal Budget was brought down he admitted “we (the forestry and timber industry) are part of soaking up the outcome of a tough budget process”.

“At a high level I would have to say we do accept it was important Australia reset some structural settings in the budget to allow us to live within our means, and we understand that this was a very difficult environment in which to prosecute our arguments for a national innovation centre, for which we had the support of six State Governments as well as the whole research community.

“So, that hasn’t been successful and indeed the research component of the budget was cut pretty dramatically -- $80 million was taken out of the forward CRC commitments “In light of that, though, we are not despairing. We certainly have been given some comments by the Government that suggest there is understanding of the arguments that we have been providing to them,” Ross said.

He added that Richard Colbeck (Parliamentary Secretary for forestry) had reiterated the makeup of the National Advisory

Council for the Forests and Forest Product Industries would be announced soon. “The need for really organising our research and development activity in Australia into a coordinated place is going to be a point of discussion in that group.

“In light of that we are probably not despairing; that would be the best way to put it.

“There is potential for us to take those ideas forward during this coming year,” said Ross.

“The other major point we will be pressing that Council to really

There is potential for us to take those ideas forward grapple with is the need for a National Forestry and Fibre plan for Australia.

“We are not at the moment involved in the agriculture white paper process except on the periphery as an input into what broad acre agriculture has to offer for us in the coming decades and the more traditional farming enterprises and we have argued successfully that it is vital our industries are also given a road map; some sort of road map that

 Ross Hampton.

shows us the way forward... you know, how big we can be or should be; what’s the impact for regional jobs in Australia; what’s the potential growth based on global markets.

“We really need that work done.

Without that to some extent we are groping in the dark when it comes to arguing our case for resources in the ground for input into regional infrastructure etc.

“We will be putting our efforts into those two really big goals and in a lot of ways if we can get those right then much of the other work that we have to do becomes much simpler and much clearer and they are that we need a national plan for forestry and fibre in this country and we need a nationally organised, coordinated, industry-led global scale research and development organisation,” Ross said.

He will soon be visiting Scion in New Zealand ... “a very good example of Government backing its industries into the future. In Australia we’re not doing that”.

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4 – June 2014, Australian Forests & Timber News

Reversing fortunes of Hardwood Forests Division

ISSN 1444-5824

June 2014

F Rob Rule will facilitate a discussion on ‘Training Package requirements for trainers and assessors’. He is shown here demonstrating how to start a device that’s likely to have a big future in the timber industry – a hand-held mechanical saw with a rotating chain. Rob is the General Manager of Timber Training Creswick. Read more pages 12-13

Features AFCA Transport Chainsaws ATTA Head-Lines Classifieds

8-9 10 11 12-13 14-21 22-23

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O R E S T R Y CORPORATION of NSW has announced its new leadership team, which is tasked with turning around the financial performance of its Hardwood Forests Division and improving focus on environmental compliance and land management.

The leadership team will head up a new structure that separates sales and production from land management and planning activities in a bid to drive efficiency, bolster environmental performance and improve customer and community service.

The new structure will see sales and production activities managed by dedicated teams led by Mike Farrow in the north, Daniel Tuan in the south and Senior Manager Marketing Martin Grealy. Andrew O’Brien will head up operations in the west of the State Forestry Corporation has also established a new State-wide planning team led by Dean Kearney, which will sharpen environmental focus, and a new Forest Stewardship team led by Kathy Jones, which will take responsibility for land management activities including fire management, weed and pest animal protection, and provision of recreational facilities.

Mike Farrow, who will head up sales and production in the north of the State, was Chief

Operating Officer at Forestry Tasmania before joining Forestry Corporation of NSW and prior to that had extensive private sector experience in Indonesia and South Africa. He will be drawing on his extensive forestry background and international experience to improve customer service and operational efficiency.

“The new production team will be firmly focussed on improving service and delivering on our commitments to our customers,” Mr Farrow said.

“Forestry Corporation is the largest commercial forest manager in NSW, but we are just one part of this State’s timber industry and working with our customers and contractors to ensure the industry remains competitive is crucial for the industry as a whole.”

Hardwood Forests Division General Manager Dean Anderson said reversing the current lossmaking position would ensure the division could continue contributing to the NSW native forest timber industry into the future.

“The viability of our hardwood operations is important to the NSW timber industry and to consumers looking for quality, sustainably-grown native timber products, so we have made it our priority to improve our financial performance,” Mr Anderson said. *** Recently retired forest engineer

Bob Cooper, of Eden, has had his 42 years of public service recognised with a new $700,000 dual lane bridge over Bondi Creek officially named Coopers Crossing in his honour.

Forestry Corporation of NSW’s Operations Manager Marty Linehan said the new bridge at the top end of Imlay Road was constructed to improve road safety for log haulage and to facilitate the transport of oversize windfarm components from the wharf on Twofold Bay to the Boco Rock Windfarm near Nimmitabel.

“Bob Cooper recently retired from Forestry Corporation after 42 years working in the engineering section, during which he took a leading role in the design and construction of forest roads, fire towers and bridges across the State,” Mr Linehan said.

“The causeway over Bondi Creek has been named Coopers Crossing in recognition of the role he played in the construction and maintenance of Imlay Road over more than four decades.

“Bob was instrumental in surveying and supervising key elements of the bridge’s construction and a morning tea was held beside the new bridge to unveil the new name, while two trucks loaded with propeller blades destined for the wind-farm made their way over the bridge on their way to Nimmitabel.

“The new bridge replaced a causeway over Bondi Creek, which

 Bob Cooper beside the new bridge Imlay Road.

was built in 1950 as a temporary crossing.

“Some loads of the wind-farm materials exceed 60 metres and others weigh over 100 tonnes.

Coupled with an increase in log truck traffic in recent years, the 64-year-old causeway was in need of an upgrade and has been replaced with a new concrete bridge.”

“Imlay Road was built by the old Forestry Commission in the 1970s, and continues to be owned and managed by Forestry Corporation.

The timber industry pays a levy to help maintain the road, which is also a key route used by locals and visitors to the region.

“The Downer Group is transporting windfarm components along Imlay Road and contributed a significant proportion of the cost of Coopers Crossing.”

AFCA chief executive quits continued from page 1.

“With the sterling work Col McCulloch has been doing with the business accreditation program trial in Tasmania (his home State) and the delicate political state in which the TFA remains, the board asked him to focus his entire energies in that State while AFCA board members took up the various other national issues and delivered a renewed focus on the requirements of all States.

“Having been involved with AFCA as its founding president and director before being Chair or CEO for the past 12 years, Col apparently took the decision to step aside from AFCA to allow the board full scope in its

restructuring,” the board statement said.

“Of recent times, the AFCA board has been undergoing renewal with new members drawn from a variety of business backgrounds, which are all part of the overall forest industry as well as having representation from all States and Territories.

“With a reported growth in demand for services nationally and growing complexity in the issues facing forest contractors, the AFCA restructure requires individual board members to take on specific national portfolios while keeping an eye on local issues affecting their State.

“Our aim is to deliver the growing service requirement without growing

the association’s cost structure,” said Joanne Wilson, Deputy Chair, AFCA. “To do that we will be calling on the skills and experience of our individual, non-paid directors to supplement the work carried out by our paid staff.

“It’s a real pity to see Col go even though we’re sure we’ll be working closely with him on projects or issues in the future. However, as in the case of all businesses and teams, succession has to happen and this will now give us the opportunity to demonstrate to members and the industry as a whole that AFCA is making great progress in renewing itself to ensure the service it provides is even more relevant today than

when it started just over a decade ago.”

Col said he had been proud of his work with AFCA, especially the formation of the body … “that was when the industry was at its lowest ebb in living memory. Noone had spare money to put into the organization back then, but we took it on,” he recalled. However, in latter years AFCA had started to claw its way back to recognition as a strong entity. “Membership has gone up markedly,” Col added.

AFCA chair Ian Reid was in Finland as Australian Forests & Timber News went to press. For a recent interview with Reid on the role of AFCA, see pages 8-9.

Overseas demand will boost need for Australian timber INCREASED DEMAND for timber overseas will bring a turnaround for some local producers, according to the head of the body that advises the Federal Government on forestry.

“Long-term demand for woodchip exports is quite strong, because there is strong growth in China, and Japan is building, as well as some of the smaller states,” said co-chair of the Forestry Industry Advisory Council, Rob de Fegely.

He added that uncertainty for the industry in south-east Australia had been heightened with the decision by South East Fibre Exports (SEFE) not to renew its contract with VicForests in Gippsland when the present contract expires at the year’s end.

Rob said SEFE needed to get through this

tough period to stay in the market and stay viable. He said overseas buyers were all looking for wood “so there are wood shortages looming”.

South East Fibre Exports general manager Peter Mitchell says international market pressure was the main reason behind the decision, and that company shareholders were yet to give SEFE any final direction on its next move.

“This is a serious development, but it isn’t an imminent ‘shut-up shop’ and there have been no decisions made in terms of the people who are working here,” Peter said.

“There has been uncertainty around SEFE’s future as part of the Victorian timber industry

for some time,” said Robert Green VicForests CEO. “There is strong demand for the unique and highly sought after timber produced from our State forest in East Gippsland and we will continue to meet our commitments to our sawlog customers to ensure this demand is met.

“However, SEFE’s decision to cease taking timber from Victoria will affect the market for residual timber produced from our harvesting operations.

“The challenge in front of us now is to build a different future for the timber industry in East Gippsland which continues to provide jobs and economic benefits to the region but may not include export woodchips,” he said

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6 – June 2014, Australian Forests & Timber News

Roundwood and woodchip exports show strong growth EXPORTS OF some wood products, particularly roundwood and woodchips, increased substantially in the September and December quarters of 2013, according to the latest report from the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES).

ABARES Executive Director, Karen Schneider, said that while the harvest of logs and domestic processing of wood products decreased in 2012–13, exports of some wood products, particularly roundwood and woodchips, increased substantially in the September and December quarters of 2013.

“The volume and value of logs harvested in Australia reached their lowest point in 10 years in 2012–13, with most of the decrease in logs harvested from native forests due to declining market demand for some native forest products,” she said.

Production of wood-based panels decreased by 5.1% in 2012– 13.

“Over the past decade, domestic consumption of panel products has been increasingly met by imports while domestic production and exports have declined,” Karen said.

While the volume of paper and paperboard production decreased by 5.5% in 2012–13, exports of paper products reached an all time high of 1.13 million tonnes.

“Exports of roundwood and woodchips showed strong growth in the December quarter of 2013, with woodchips exports up 51% year on year and roundwood quarterly exports the highest in two decades,” she said.

The figures were released in Australian forest and wood products statistics, September and December quarters 2013, which provides the latest data for log harvest, production and trade of key forestry commodities, and forestry worker household incomes.

“We must remember that the ABARES statistics are a ‘lag indicator’ showing us how things were in the industry over the past two years,” said Australian Forest Products Association chief executive officer Ross Hampton.

“The significant upturn in the latter part of the reporting period is something to celebrate coupled with increased growth in key production indicators over the current financial year.

‘The future looks bright for the forest products industry and we are pleased with the recent upturn in woodchip exports and other domestic production indicators along with the Australian Newspaper’s editorial today which clearly states the value of traditional newsprint,” he said.

Senator Richard Colbeck, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Agriculture, said it was disappointing that the volume and value of logs harvested in Australia was at the lowest point in 10 years following a decrease in harvesting from native forests.

Leadbeater’s Possum engagement brings results

By Robert Green Chief Executive Officer VicForests

H

OW DO you effectively engage with stakeholders?

It’s a perennial question for forestry organisations who are required to balance a range of views regarding how our forests are managed.

The interests of stakeholders are often competing, their views are strongly held and, at times, it can be hard to find common ground.

The Leadbeater’s Possum Advisory Group, established last year by the Victorian State Government, was a new approach to engagement around forestry issues in Victoria and brought together different organisations to work on a common goal – developing recommendations which would support the recovery of the Leadbeater’s Possum while maintaining a sustainable timber industry.

The Advisory Group was coconvened by Zoos Victoria and the Victorian Association of Forest Industries, and included Parks Victoria, the Leadbeater’s Possum Recovery Team and VicForests.

The Advisory Group process included consultation with a range of experts, scientists, and key stakeholders from the community, environmental organisations and industry.

The concept required a great show of faith by the State Government with the Minister for Agriculture and Food Security and the Minister for Environment and Climate Change asking a diverse group of organisations to develop solutions to a complex problem.

By including such a broad suite of stakeholders, the process was able to develop and consider a variety of alternative proposals. These different proposals were evaluated by the Advisory Group before consensus around recommendations was finally reached.

The success of this nine month process was highlighted by the Government’s recent announced it was endorsing all 13 recommendations developed by the Advisory Group.

Of the 13 recommendations developed, the most significant change announced was a move away from traditional clearfelling methods in the forests which are home to the Leadbeater’s Possum.

Retention harvesting will replace traditional clearfell methods in 50% of the area harvested across the Leadbeater’s Possum’s range beginning from July 1 this year.

Retention harvesting will mean additional areas are reserved, such as ‘islands’ of unharvested trees, to provide habitat and better connectivity for animals as well as assisting to establish older forest across the landscape.

Other key recommendations include: • placing 12 hectare buffers around the site of all Leadbeater’s Possum colonies – four times the size of the average colony’s range • a change to the definition of habitat zones to exclude additional areas from timber harvesting operations • an expansion to the nest box program to provide further habitat options for the species • investigating ways to speed up the creation of tree hollows to develop future habitat more quickly • a suite of other actions designed to improve the quality of current and future habitat for the Possum As well as developing recommendations to assist the Possum’s recovery, the Advisory Group process allowed the organisations involved to share their knowledge and information regarding the species.

The timber industry should be proud of the role it has played in developing the recommendations put forward by the Advisory Group.

Discussions were difficult at times, requiring everyone involved

to work hard and focus on finding solutions. I am proud that the industry had the courage to be involved in a new and innovative engagement process.

This consultation with a diverse group of stakeholders allowed different concepts to be considered – a key step in developing a vision

that creates a brighter future for Victoria’s State faunal emblem.

There remain challenges ahead but the recommendations developed by the group and endorsed by the Ministers provide a strong foundation to build for the future, both for biodiversity outcomes and a vibrant timber industry.

You’ve got to look at the big picture THIS PLANTATION of mainly sugar gums and red ironbark being grown for sawlogs near the Pyrenees ranges in western Victoria is owned by one of the directors of SMARTimbers cooperative. Getting the words all marked out and the spacing correct took a fair bit of doing, but obviously worth it in the end.

 This plantation is now almost finished its first thinning and the CO2 sequestration is going along well, regardless of politics.

Plantation productivity in Australia can be doubled AUSTRALIA CAN lift its plantation productivity considerably if we are prepared to fund the co-ordinated and systematic research needed to get us there, says Rob de Fégely, President of the Institute of Foresters of Australia (IFA).

This was the key message from the IFA plantation productivity symposium in Mt Gambier last month that was attended by more than 80 of Australia’s best forest researchers and managers along with experts from New Zealand and China.

“The symposium has been discussing how plantation productivity can be improved,” Rob said. “Today we saw a patch of 11 year old ForestrySA plantation that has an average growth rate of 50m3/ha/yr.

This is a phenomenal achievement and one we would only expect to find in places like Brazil.

“If we could permanently lift the mean annual production of our

We have all the skills we need here in Australia but recent closures and downsizing of research facilities by CSIRO and various State forest agencies has fragmented the research effort softwood plantations from their current level from around 15 m3/ha/ year to closer to 30 we would improve the economics of plantation businesses significantly and remove any need for sawntimber imports.”

The symposium’s keynote speaker, Dr Sadanandan Nambiar AO, from CSIRO Ecosystem Sciences, was not surprised by the result, saying “we do not need to go overseas to find solutions to our plantation productivity research problems.

“We have all the skills we need here in Australia but recent closures

and downsizing of research facilities

by CSIRO and various State forest agencies has fragmented the research effort,” he said.

Forest managers and researchers were also reminded that wood quality is more important than just growth rate and in particular wood density and stiffness are key attributes for processing softwood logs into quality sawn timber.

Dr Nambiar is confident that implementing research will pay dividends if plantation investors ensured they had the right harvesting

 Dr Sadanandan Nambiar AO, from CSIRO Ecosystem Sciences.

and silvicultural systems in place so as to protect soil health, which is crucial to improving productivity and the right genetics to ensure the best quality wood.

“To ensure our plantations reach their potential we need to continue to carry out research, and work with plantation managers to develop the knowledge, technology, tools and operational skills and apply the results at a whole-of-plantation scale,” he said.

Australian Forests & Timber News, June 2014 – 7

Innovation capabilities improving across the industry T

HE INNOVATION Skills Program being conducted

by ForestWorks ISC is fast approaching the half-way point in its efforts to support industry innovation capabilities.

Over much of the last year many regions across Australia have been exposed to the Innovation Skills Program. Attendance at Innovation Forums from Bunbury to Gympie and in many locations in between has been significant. In fact, more than 1,200 personnel from across the industry have participated.

Most importantly, the need to innovate, driven by the constant pressures and changing world in which we work, has never been so clear.

The major innovation skills event of the year was held in Canberra in March 2014. The main day attracted close to 200 participants from the forest, wood, paper and timber industry, including from 18 employer and employee associations, business executives, industry consultants, managers and employees and registered training organisations. Topics included innovation in work health and safety, business accreditation and a leadership forum exploring the role of women in the industry.

These forums were a key part of the first stage of the Innovation Skills Program. It offered industry an opportunity to collaborate and work with all levels of the supply chain however the next stage is now upon us.

Working groups drive practical innovation While Innovation Forums will continue throughout the next financial year, culminating in

a major event in Canberra in March 2015, the next critical element of the Innovation Skills Program is the creation, facilitation and management of Innovation Working Groups.

There are two aims of the working groups - One is to assist industry to pursue innovation to lift productivity and opportunity. The second, and the focus of this program, is to provide participants in the working groups with a learning and skilling experience. This will assist them to build their capacity to work in innovative and collaborative ways in the future.

Topic and outcome focussed Working Groups are being formed within three clusters.

Participants are being identified by industry associations and from among those who have attended Innovation Forums.

Each Working Group is centred on distinct areas in the industry’s overall value chain and will be professionally facilitated with specialist support.

The Clusters and Working Groups are:

Business Capabilities and Accreditation Cluster •S mall Business Value & Capabilities Development ~ focused on developing and recognising the business capabilities of smaller wood processors • Forest Operations Contracting Capabilities and Business Accreditation ~ centred on establishing a standards based and industry specific capabilities and business accreditation program for forest operations contractors

Detailed scientific assessment FORESTRY TASMANIA has undertaken an extensive and detailed scientific assessment of the forest within its Forest Management Unit to identify forest areas which are of High Conservation Value (HCV), and to identify proposed management prescriptions to maintain and/or enhance these High Conservation Values.

On the basis of this assessment, FT has produced a Draft HCV Assessment and Management Plan for consultation with the public. Production of this plan is also a prerequisite for seeking Forest Stewardship Council (FSC®) certification.

The draft plan will be open for public comment until 30 June 2014.

Forestry Tasmania welcomes your views. To let FT know what you think you can: • e mail stakeholder@forestrytas.com.au; •w rite to the Stakeholder Engagement Coordinator, Forestry Tasmania, 79 Melville St, Hobart 7000: • o r call the Stakeholder Engagement Coordinator on (03) 6235 8151.

“If you would like further information on, or wish to discuss any elements of, this draft plan or the recently released Draft Forest Management Plan, please contact us as above. In addition, we will be arranging a series of dropin community meetings across the state in the first two weeks of June. The timing and location of these meetings will be advertised both via Branchline and through public notices in the major daily newspapers,” said FT chief executive officer Steve Whiteley.

“I encourage you to have your say as all input received will be taken into account in the development of the final plans, which are due to be considered by the Board of Forestry Tasmania in September 2014.”

Timber Building Systems Cluster •C ommercialisation of Existing Technologies ~ focused on methods to take existing technologies and systems and advance their commercialisation across the building products manufacturing sector • Standards for Timber Building Systems ~ advancing recognition and procurement of building products that meet or exceed Australia’s world leading standards, especially those applicable to wood panels and engineered wood products • Sawnwood Marketing & Integration ~ a possible Working Group, centred on shared, pre-competitive marketing opportunities

Workforce Development Cluster • I nnovative Solutions to Specific Skills Shortages ~ focused on developing employment and skill solutions, in a regional context, (in this case the Green Triangle Region) that improve employment outcomes across seasons and boom and bust cycles • P ulp & Paper Sector HR Development Solutions ~ centred around the small

number of large facilities in the sector and their need to integrate skills development, recognition and other systems focussed HR activities

Innovation Skill Sets •F orestWorks ISC and Box Hill Institute have designed an Innovation Skill Sets delivery program that is workplace and industry based. The skill sets aim to support leaders, managers and workers to work collaboratively and think innovatively, delivering increased capabilities and improved skills. These skill sets were delivered for the first time in May 2014 and are available (for a training fee) across the whole industry.

Coming Innovation Forums and events: • J une 2014, Melbourne Hosted by the Frame and Truss Manufacturers Association (FTMA) and ForestWorks ISC • M arch 2015, Canberra The Annual ForestWorks ISC Conference focussing on the theme of Innovation Visit www.forestworks.com. au/innovation for further information on innovation, upcoming forums and the Innovation Skills Program

Half of ForestrySA workforce to go FORESTRYSA will slash more than half its weekly paid workforce through a series of voluntary redundancy packages. Employees were told the news during meetings at ForestrySA sites in the Adelaide Hills and the State’s South East.

ForestrySA will be offering 60 targeted voluntary separation packages in the amount which will need to be concluded by the end of the financial year.

ForestrySA has 114 weekly paid employees.

Forests Minister Leon Bignell said there would be no forced redundancies and added that there was a strong base of private contractors in the state’s South East who would undertake the forest management work. He said the changes would not affect ForestrySA staff in the state’s Mid-North.

FORESTRY FACTS Forestry Corporation of NSW is the largest producer of plantationgrown radiata pine in Australia, producing enough renewable timber to construct about a quarter of the houses built nation-wide each year.

ForestWorks’ activities are assisted by funding provided by the Commonwealth Government through the Department of Industry.

Improving productivity in your workplace A learning program is now available for leaders, managers and workers to improve the operation of your business. · Build innovation capability at all levels · Improve innovative thinking, practice and development · Make innovation a workplace reality for future business growth

FIND OUT MORE: 1800 177 001 forestworks@forestworks.com.au www.forestworks.com.au

8 – June 2014, Australian Forests & Timber News

AFCA -

AUstralian FORESTRY CONTRACTORs ASSOCIATION

Australian Forest Contractors Association chair Ian Reid has seen the industry in its heyday and he’s also seen it struggle but there’s one thing for sure ... he believes that, with everyone pulling in the one direction, there is indeed a positive future. Ian shares his thoughts in this Q&A series.

Innovation is one of the keys to survival in a tough industry I

AN REID took on the role of Chair of AFCA in November 2012 at a time when the contracting industry was facing particularly tough times and the outlook for the entire forest industry was under something of a cloud. Eighteen months later, the outlook for the industry is a little brighter with something of a renewed confidence as forests change hands, changes in governments signal more favorable conditions for the timber industry and market demand for timber products is starting to lift.

Q: W hen you took on the role of Chair, the industry was in the doldrums so it can’t have been a particularly enticing role. What were your thoughts as you approached the task of leading AFCA at that time?

A: I have a naturally optimistic outlook, which, I can tell you, was an important part in my taking on the position of Chair. Along with that, we had something of a renaissance in the make up of the board where we have ensured we have input from people in most states (we are working towards having true national representation on the board), and voices from women active in the industry as well as suppliers to the industry. The important thing is the board is not a collection of retired or ageing contractors but is a dynamic reflection of the contracting industry.

Things were certainly looking

quite grim at the time but I knew the industry AFCA serves is a vital one in that contractors are the important link in the chain that makes commercial forestry feasible.

We can apply all the science in the world to growing trees in the most productive way and we can use technology to efficiently process timber to meet new and growing addedvalue markets but if we can’t efficiently get the logs from the forest in the form that is required and when they are required, the whole process breaks down. Understanding that meant we needed to take a longer-term view than merely looking at surviving in the short term.

Q: Were the Business is different workshops AFCA held around the country part of your long term strategy or are they more of a tactical response to current business conditions?

A: Both. We know that contractors provide the practical means by which forest owners and managers can manage their resources. We also know that in large part, forest owners have been price takers on the international commodity market and have looked to improve their own bottom line by applying the screws to prices paid to contractors doing the harvesting and other practical work within the forest estate. Under these

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circumstances, it is important that contracting business owners look to innovate where possible to bring their cost of production down so they can safely deliver product to specification while still making a profit. We also believe it is important for forest owners to understand that contractors are prepared to innovate but, to do so, need resource owners to pay fair value for the work.

For contractors to assist forest owners and timber processors meet their social obligations under FSC and PEFC/AFS certification, it behooves the entire industry to understand that contracting businesses need to be profitable so they can invest in operator training and the technology required to produce logs efficiently, with minimum impact on the environment and maximum delivery of OH&S. Col McCulloch has been leading these workshops for us ably supported by ForestWorks and we have been getting good comments back from them.

The most satisfying feedback has been forest owners and contractors being in the same room and reporting a better understanding of each other’s position and an improved preparedness to work together to achieve realistic outcomes for all parties.

Q: Will there be an extension of this forum? Will you

be taking the Business is different now workshops to more locations or do you have something else in the pipeline?

A: G iven the feedback we have had to these workshops and the growing number of new members we are having join us, we will probably extend the program and continue running these workshops. We will no doubt have different content as market conditions change and the industry evolves but we see this faceto-face approach having a lot of value for our members and the industry as a whole.

In tandem with this program, we are also investigating the establishment of a professional standard that recognizes the achievements, experience and capabilities of qualified contractors to assure clients they can expect a high level of professional performance from those contractors who have been certified. This has been running as the Master Loggers program in North America but we see a need for a qualification in Australia that is perhaps a little more far reaching taking into account the needs of forest owners and processors (the owners’ customers) to not only produce product to specification and deliver it on time to meet demand but to do so in a manner that meets their obligations under the

 Ian Reid.

various sustainable production certification schemes. We have begun the consultation process with contractors, forest owners and processors and hope to be able to report the next steps of progress later this year.

Q: A FCA seems to be taking a more holistic approach to the work you do rather than concentrating on the here and now of individual contractor’s businesses. Is this a change in mindset?

A: We’re still desperately keen to hear of problems (and opportunities) being faced by individual contractors so that we can help where it is possible. While we are a national organization, many problems faced by individual contractors may be, or are being, faced by contractors in other parts of the country so sometimes it is possible to find a solution that works locally

Mobile communications technologies showcase in August EVER WANTED to know what the latest developments in mobile technologies are and how they are being used within the industry? Thinking about investing in technology for your business but don’t know where to start?

Whether its satellite imagery of plantation forests, GPS tracking and real-time scheduling of transport and logistics, sensor monitoring for soil and stock management, or automated water management systems, our primary sector businesses have a lot to benefit from improved mobile technologies.

While you’re probably using technologies such as smartphones, tablets, mobile apps, satellite mapping and communications, it’s also likely some of your neighbors are looking further ahead to improve their operations. Many are already investing in robotics, aerial drones, remote sensors, electronic tagging, intelligent data, machine to machine communications (M2M), real-time analytics and cloud-based platforms.

For those working in primary industries - what you really want to know is just what are these technologies,

how they’re being employed and used by industry leaders, what gains in efficiencies and productivity are being achieved and just what does it take to integrate some of these new tools into your own business.

Building on the momentum of last year’s Summit, MobileTECH 2014 will be running this year in Brisbane, Australia, on 5-6 August and again, in Auckland, New Zealand, on 12-13 August 2014.

Confirmed presenters already include; - Mobile Mentor – Tracta - Hawkeye UAV - KORE Wireless Asia Pacific - SwarmFarm Robotics – Xero - Silent Herdsman – GPSIT - Agri Optics - Harrington Systems Electronics – Droidworx - Falcon UAV – PASource - Landcare New Zealand – CSIRO FARMpos – Scion and – Comworth.

While the rise of the drones will be popular, this year’s MobileTECH 2014 will focus on a raft of new technologies that can be adopted now, whether it’s on the farm, in the greenhouse or out in the forest.

Check out the program and look to register online at www.mobiletech2014.com before the special offers on discounted registrations close.

Australian Forests & Timber News, June 2014 – 9

AFCA yet can be applied nationally.

We have also worked to gather a network of professionals operating in various sectors that impact on the viability of contracting businesses to help with specific issues individual businesses may be facing. We are currently working on our presence on the internet so that it is easier for members to raise issues with us and for us to facilitate forums whereby the collective minds of the association can be applied for the greater good. We are also happy to take a phone call at any stage to see how we can help members resolve issues or uncover opportunities. But you’re right; we are looking at the industry more broadly to see if we can help improve the situation for the industry as a whole and our members in particular.

Q: W hat is your membership target? Do you have 100% coverage of contractors yet and is this a desirable or attainable target?

A: T here is no industry association (with the possible exception of surgeons and barristers!) which has 100% membership of all those who are eligible to belong. So that fact alone

AUstralian FORESTRY CONTRACTORs ASSOCIATION makes 100% coverage an almost impossible target.

Many contracting business operators see themselves as being stand-alone operations in competition with everyone else and unlikely to derive any useful direct benefit from being part of an industry association.

Others see the sense in being part of a like-minded group of industry players who can work to improve overall operating conditions while setting up opportunities to gain recognition as being a good corporate citizen and a highly professional operator.

These people we see as being informed and keen to build their businesses in a professional way. Our aim is to attract 100% of these people.

Q: A FCA took over AUSTimber starting with the 2008 event.

The two events you staged in Mt Gambier were considered to be among the best in the world when it comes to inforest demonstration of new equipment. How is planning going for the 2016 event and what, if any, new things can we expect to see?

A: Planning is well under way.

Latrobe City in Victoria will be the host city for

2016 with the event being centered on Traralgon. The in-forest demonstration site has been confirmed and site preparations will begin in earnest this coming summer.

In 2016 we will be paying even greater attention to the processing spectrum of the industry as part of our recognition that contractors are part of the overall timber industry and that trees are grown and harvested to meet market needs not just for the hell of it! We will have a sustainability program in schools during the week of the event, a conference program that covers Precision Forestry, Government policies to promote the use of sustainable timber in construction and advances in the use of prefabricated timber panels in construction. We are working toward having displays of timber furniture, the wide variety of timber species that are available for use in decoration and cabinetry as well as having a house using panelized timber constructed during the week of the event.

Our aim is to have as much new technology on display and being demonstrated as we can so that industry has the chance to see it all in the one place as

well as encouraging the general public to come along and see that what we do is no longer dirty, dumb and dangerous but part of an environmentally essential industry that employs technology and smart people to deliver important outcomes.

Q: A t the industry outlook conference in Canberra earlier this year, Councilor Sandy Kam from Latrobe City announced that her council is considering introducing a wood encouragement policy as well as working towards creating a hub for timber innovation.

Given AUSTimber2016 will be held in Latrobe City, do you have any involvement in their considerations and do you know what progress is being made?

A: W hen we were discussing the opportunity for Latrobe City to be the host city for AUSTimber, we ventured that, to fully capitalize on the opportunity the event offered the region, council should consider introducing a wood encouragement policy similar to the Wood First policy introduced by British Columbia in Canada. To their credit, councilors were

quick to grasp the benefit of having an advanced timber engineering/processing/ design industry develop in their region given the existence of considerable plantation and forest resource throughout the Gippsland region (which Latrobe City is part of), nearby world-scale timber mills and Australia’s biggest pulp and paper operation well established in the city. The General Manager of AUSTimber2016, Laurie Martin, has been working closely with councilors and council officers to help them in the process of establishing a wood encouragement policy while our CEO, Col McCulloch, has been working with local government politicians in Tasmania, South Australia and West Australia as they contemplate introducing their own wood encouragement policies.

The next step in Latrobe City’s process is for them to have an industry round table where council officers can discuss what a local wood encouragement policy might look like. At this stage, we don’t have a specific date for this roundtable but their aim is for it to be conducted before the end of June.

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10 – June 2014, Australian Forests & Timber News

TRANSPORT

 Easyloader.

Reducing truck fuel consumption F

PINNOVATIONS’ research shows reducing forestry truck fuel consumption is possible with aerodynamic modeling, but the concept is nothing new for leading Australian trailer manufacturer Elphinstone.

In fact, Elphinstone was dealing with FPInnovations last year and provided the Canadian organization with a lot of information on its folding bolsters.

According to the research, the concept was shown to have the potential to reduce aerodynamic drag by 28%, for a fuel savings of 14.6%. Over the course of an entire year, this could translate to a fuel savings of up to $3,400, with a greenhouse gas emissions reduction of up to eight tonnes (per trailer).

Graeme Elphinstone said he had been asked what his thoughts were on developing fold down pegs to help with fuel consumption.

“When I thought about it, it was obvious we have been working on fuel saving and cost saving in log transport from the very day I started designing and manufacturing log transport equipment in 1976.

“We started by loading jinker trailers onto trucks for the empty return trip. While this was done mainly at the time to give better drive traction and make it easier to turn around on logging coupes, our operators at the time did not realise it but they were saving fuel and it was actually causing less drag and less tyre wear on the drive as well as trailer.

“Drive tyre wear is reduced by giving better traction on adverse roads due to less tyre skip and less suspension wear,” said Graeme.

“In 1985/86 we developed the Elphinstone Fold-A-Skel; a folding skeletal trailer.

This was again done for traction and maneuverability but we found many other savings that were bigger than jinker savings with fuel being a big one.

“In late 1988 we applied the same principle to a B-Double by folding the rear trailer onto the rear of lead trailer and made the rear trailer tri-axle and front tandemaxle. This presented a problem in that we

could not get more weight onto the drive axles in this configuration.

“In 1997 in a quest to get lighter tare weight and simpler operation, we developed the Elphinstone Easyloader. The Easyloader concept meant we were able to get more weight onto the drive axles and in that design we achieved trailers that were lower with less drag.

“We have done the same with the Elphinstone Easyloader B-Triple and Road Train. We have found fuel savings as well as many other benefits, “he said.

The Easyloader incorporates fold down pegs (stakes) and has proven to be a significant factor in fuel savings. The Easyloader also allows trucks to take non B-Double/Road train routes on return trips.

Shorter travel distances mean more fuel and labour savings.

“Recent international research showed that a reduction in drag and fuel consumption could be achieved by folding down the stakes (pegs) of an unloaded

 Graeme with Draftsman Digvijay Pansuriya.

log truck. This is, in our view, very accurate and commendable. Elphinstone’s experience, though, is that we can take that reduction in drag and less fuel consumption to a greater level by our Easyloader design.

“Coupled with our continual upgrading of the Easyloader design, we are currently developing an aerodynamic cabguard/load restraint and rear guard; both of which should help reduce drag.

“The simple answer to the question of reducing forestry truck fuel consumption is that Elphinstone Engineering designs have been reducing drag in many ways; not just fold down pegs. We are continually advancing our designs and making changes to make our logging trailers more cost effective and fuel efficient,” said Graeme.

Mallee jet fuel has wings AIRCRAFT POWERED by biofuel made from Australian mallee trees is not only possible but could be sustainable and give a boost to potential new regional industries, according to a report by the Future Farm Industries Cooperative Centre (CRC).

The mallee jet fuel sustainability and life-cycle assessment report produced with funding from Airbus and support from industry partners Virgin Australia, Renewable Oil Corporation, Dynamotive and IFPEN - provides enough evidence to support continued R&D on mallee production and bio-oil upgrading, and to inform the business case for commercial production starting in Western Australia (WA).

The report was launched during the CRC Association conference in Perth with key airline representatives present, including Airbus New Energies Programme Manager

Frédéric Eychenne, and Virgin Australia Regional Airlines Group Executive Merren McArthur.

Speaking at the launch, CRC Research Director Dr John McGrath said the mallee jet fuel project looked at the Great Southern region of WA as a case study, examining the potential of a complete industry supply chain from grower to aviation user.

“We already know that mallee growing integrates well with farm crop and livestock operations and can benefit natural resources in a number of ways, such as protecting and enhancing biodiversity, and contributing to rebalancing water tables. What this report demonstrates is that mallees can provide a future economic benefit to farmers and regional communities, with a viable industry possible by 2021,” said Dr McGrath.

“The scenario tested was based on what we know from existing

plantings, and indicates that mallees could occupy up to six per cent of paddocks, or about one per cent of the Great Southern region.

The proposed mallee-based biofuels industry – including harvesting, transport and production – could provide employment for 40 people and bring about $30 million per year with the first regional plant.

The life-cycle carbon emissions analysis estimated jet flights leaving Perth Airport powered by 100% mallee jet fuel sourced from Great Southern region farms could emit 40% less greenhouse gases compared to those using petroleum-based jet fuel.

Great Southern farmers growing mallees on marginal cropping soils will benefit from higher profits and more uniform income, offsetting variable crop income.

Importantly, integrated trees only cover a small part of the landscape

so mallees grown for jet fuel would not significantly displace food crops.

As it is a ‘second-generation’ biofuel coming from a woody source and not food crop, it does not compete directly with food supplies.

Virgin Australia Regional Airlines Group Executive, Merren McArthur, said, “Virgin Australia remains committed to supporting innovative Australian research into the feasibility of aviation biofuels and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Australia.

“As the sole airline partner of this ground-breaking study, the results show mallee jet fuel is a more sustainable option than our current fossil-based fuel supply while also providing valuable insights into potential new supply chain developers.

We look forward to supporting the Mallee jet fuel project as it continues to evolve and getting one step closer to seeing a commercial supply of biofuel

developed in Western Australia,” she said.

“The outcome of this report is very positive and supports Airbus’ global strategy of seeking the best local solutions for the development and commercialisation of sustainable fuels for aviation,” said Airbus New Energies Program Manager, Frédéric Eychenne.

“Since 2008 Airbus has been engaged in a worldwide program to develop solutions, and this report is an important step towards achieving the goals the industry has set itself for carbon neutral growth.”

Future Farm Industries CRC will cease operation on 30 June this year, bringing to a close seven years of research into profitable perennial plant farming systems for Australian broadacre agriculture. The CRC’s research projects have either been completed or transferred to other state agencies or funding bodies.

Australian Forests & Timber News, June 2014 – 11

chainsaws Makita re-inventing their Chainsaws NEXT TIME you hear a chainsaw in action, spare a thought about where that machine had its beginnings. That being the case, let’s delve into history and review the file on Makita.

In 1958, Makita Corporation, which was founded in 1915 as an Electric Motor Sales and Repair Company, became the first company in Japan to manufacture and sell electric planers.

Since then Makita has worked to build a steady position as a global leader and manufacturer of portable power tools for the housing and commercial construction markets.

Along the way Makita Global also entered the outdoor power equipment industry by acquiring Sachs Dolmar in 1991 and Fuji Robin Industries in 2007.

Dolmar, which is synonymous with chainsaws, was founded by Emil Lerp in 1927 when he produced the Model “A” petrol chainsaw. Emil designed, built and demonstrated this saw on the wooded slopes of Mt Dolmar in Germany and quickly began production for the forestry and logging industry.

Further developments in the 1930s produced the Models C, DB35 and CL.

In 1952 Dolmar launched the first “one-man” petrol chainsaw, the CP Model, and then later in 1958 released the CF Model incorporating a diaphragm carburetor. The legendary Sachs-Dolmar KMS 4 was produced in 1975 and was the first and only chainsaw with a rotary engine.

The next 15 plus years saw a continual improvement within the Dolmar chainsaw range which further embedded them as a leader in the forestry and commercial milling industry around the world.

In 2000 Makita Corporation launched a new range of professional chainsaws with an unrivalled power to weight ratio of 1.37kg/kW and featuring the highly efficient Airmaster Air Filter System. Further product improvements were made in 2007 and 2013, which have kept the Makita chainsaw range competitive with the industry leaders.

With the recent release of the “New Generation” 61cc/3.4kW professional saw and further developments ahead, it is an exciting time for Makita to continue to re-invent themselves in the chainsaw market and build on the incredible work done by the German Dolmar brand.

 PRO-SAW

Safety is paramount C

HAINSAW PROTECTION has come a long way since it was first developed in the USA back in the 1970s. The first models were made using Kevlar which were effective but expensive. Over the years, standards were developed and various improvements were incorporated to make them lighter, more effective and less expensive.

Clogger is a leading brand of chainsaw protection in Australasia.

Manufactured by Zenitec, a company based in Invercargill, New Zealand, the Clogger brand offers a wide range of styles for different applications. The forestry sector typically uses the standard ‘clipped’ style chaps which have a series of five quick release buckles down the back of each leg with a heavy duty polyester outer covering, all designed to withstand the rigours of the harsh forestry environment.

The full Clogger range includes products at the high quality end of the market for the professional arborist or tree climber to the more economically priced chainsaw garments for the occasional user.

Within the product line-up there are variations of fastening styles, different outer fabrics and different patterns all of which have been specifically designed for particular applications. This range can be accessed at www.clogger.com.au.

All Clogger products are certified to the current Australian/ New Zealand standard by Bureau Veritas who are an internationally recognised accreditation company.

Lincoln Smith, a spokesperson for Zenitec, says that gaining this certification was not easy as it involves an ongoing program of testing, meticulous documentation systems and regular auditing.

Zenitec claim to be the experts

in chainsaw protection and this is certainly a justifiable claim. Their focus is on providing chainsaw protection from footwear to the upper body. They have a purpose

New Generation from Germany The perfect all-round 61cc Chain Saw. The powerful EA6100P does the job as a felling saw and a debranching saw in one machine.

Even at far offsite locations which have to be reached by foot, the transport of only one saw makes the job a lot easier.

The Makita chainsaw range covers all user types starting with the Entry Level 32cc and 35cc units, and then moves into a 46cc and 50cc Land Owner/Semi Pro–Saw, along with a 22cc Top Handle Pruning Chainsaw.

Our High Performance Forestry/Pro-Saws start with our New Generation 61cc/3.4kW saw, and then move to a 73cc, 79cc and 90cc model.

Makita sell their products through a National Dealer network; please visit our website at www.makita.com.au to locate your nearest Outdoor Power Equipment Dealer.

built laboratory with high quality in-house testing facilities that enable them to test their products to levels far in excess of what the standards require.

12 – June 2014, Australian Forests & Timber News

atta -

AUstralian timber trainers association

‘With the VET system being turned on its head and the timber industry in the midst of structural ch

Latest developments for

By David McElvenny ATTA Secretary

E

ACH YEAR the Australian Timber Trainers Association (ATTA) holds a workshop to discuss developments in the industry and issues of importance to trainers, assessors and RTOs. This year, there are more things than ever to discuss: • t he federal budget has just been released, with serious implications for Vocational Education and Training (VET), including the cancellation of various funding schemes • t he VET Reform Taskforce is currently considering a wide range of options to improve the way the VET system operates in Australia, including the merging of regulatory bodies and changes to Industry Skills Councils • a new unit of competency is due to become compulsory for all qualified trainers – TAELLN411 Address adult language literacy and numeracy skills • t he ‘unique student identifier’ will come into effect at the beginning of next year • c hanges are taking place in various States, including the proposed introduction of a ‘licensing’ system in Victoria similar to the Tasmania Forest Operator Licensing Scheme • c ontinuing upheavals in the forest industry are forcing RTOs and TAFE colleges to consider new ways of adapting to the training market, such as through mergers, removal of courses, diversifying into other fields, or in worst case scenarios, shutting down completely.

So, even if the weather is cool outside, there’ll be plenty of heat and vigorous discussion inside the conference room in Tumut.

The lead organiser this year is Adam Farquharson, head of forestry at the Forest Industry Training Centre, a division of the TAFE NSW Riverina Institute. Adam is based at the Tumut campus, and on Day 2 of the workshop he will show off their ‘connected classroom’ and its on-line delivery techniques.

He will also take the workshop attendees on a guided tour of major production sites and forest areas in the region, including Blowering Nursery, Carabost forest, Hyne and Sons Tumbarumba sawmill and Visy Pulp and Paper.

The conference venue will be the Tumut RSL Club. The main presentation sessions will be led by industry experts, Government representatives and ForestWorks staff. In addition to the guest presentations, workshops and site tours, there will be the usual events that make each year’s conference a happy and rewarding experience. These include the evening auction on Day 1, the Stihl presentation from Rob Baker, Stihl’s Technical Manager, on Day 2 and the general get-togethers and social chit-chats in between times each day.

For participants who wish to stay on for the fourth day, there will be a one-day group training session in the new unit of competency: TAELLN411 Address adult language, literacy and numeracy skills.

Participants who attend this session and complete the followup assignments in the workplace will be given a statement of attainment by Workspace Training. Workshop participants will be able to complete this unit for the special price of $120, which includes lunch.

The workshop registration fee

 Rob Rule will facilitate a discussion on ‘Training Package requirements for trainers and assessors’. He is shown here demonstrating how to start a device that’s likely to have a big future in the timber industry – a hand-held mechanical saw with a rotating chain. Rob is the General Manager of Timber Training Creswick.

is $495 for ATTA members and $675 for non-members. Note that the ATTA membership fee is $75, and non-members are welcome to join up prior to registering. The fee will cover the main three-day conference and includes lunches and dinners from Monday to Wednesday (2830 July). Participants who attend the LLN course on Thursday can pay the additional $120 charge as part of their registration fee.

All attendees of the main conference will receive a certificate of attendance. This will list the topics covered over the three days and provide excellent evidence of continuing professional development and industry consultation. Those who undertake the LLN course will receive a statement of attainment in TAELLN411 once they have successfully completed the workplace assignments and returned them to Workspace Training.

To see the current draft version of the workshop program, go to the ATTA website at: www.atta. org.au. You can also register online by following the links.

For more information about the workshop, please contact the Secretary at: secretary@atta.org.au.

Workshop program at a glance Day 1: Monday 29 July • O pening address – Senator Richard Colbeck • ‘What’s happening in VET?’ – changes taking place in the VET system • Training Package requirements for trainers and assessors • Updates from ForestWorks ISC • Evening auction

Day 2: Tuesday 30 July Field trip to: • Tumut Forestry nursery • Carabost Forest region • Courabyra winery lunch • Tour of Tumbarumba Timber Mill • Tour of Tumut Pulp and Paper Mill • Stihl presentation Day 3: Wednesday 31 July AGM and GM • ‘Broadening your horizons’ – presentation from MSA representative • Forest Industry Council presentation

 David McElvenny will run the one-day training session on Day 4 for participants who enrol in the unit: TAELLN411 Address adult language, literacy and numeracy skills.

Once participants successfully complete the follow-up assignments, they will be given a Statement of Attainment in this competency. David is the ATTA Secretary, and CEO of Workspace Training.

• Workshop sessions on lesson planning techniques; implementation of assessment process; innovative delivery techniques and soil and water protection • P resentation of TAFE’s ‘connected classroom’ showcasing on-line delivery techniques Optional Day 4: Thursday 1 August • TAELLN411 – Address adult language, literacy and numeracy skills course

 Dinner provides an opportunity for w or discuss issues of mutual interest some of the Day 3 sessions. Heathe Training and Assessment Centre.

Australian Forests & Timber News, June 2014 – 13

atta -

AUstralian timber trainers association

hange, this is probably the most important professional development event you’ll attend all year’

r trainers and assessors  T im Isaacs will lead the workshop discussion ‘What’s happening in VET?’. This segment will feature short presentations on particular aspects of the changing VET system, followed by group discussions on the implications for trainers and RTOs. Tim is the ATTA President and General Manager of Fitec Australia.

 Senator Richard Colbeck will deliver the opening address. He will provide an insight into the Federal Government’s policy directions for the timber industry and its place in the Australian economy.

Senator Colbeck is the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Agriculture.  Workshop participants will get to see some of the major production sites and forest areas in the Tumut region, including Blowering Nursery, Carabost forest, Hyne and Sons Tumbarumba sawmill and Visy Pulp and Paper.

workshop participants to chat socially . Heather May (far right) will facilitate r is a director of Latrobe Valley

 Michael Hartman will deliver a presentation on ‘Innovation in training delivery and assessment’. Michael is CEO of ForestWorks Industry Skills Council. Other ForestWorks staff members will also be on hand to provide updates on the ISC’s activities and answer questions about current projects. They include Antoinette Hewitt (ISC Contract Manager) and Peter Hay (NSW Skills Advisory Manager). ForestWorks will sponsor the first night’s dinner.

 Rob Baker will provide an update on the latest product releases from Stihl and answer technical questions from participants. He will also deliver his annual ‘Guide for the perplexed’ at the second night’s dinner, sponsored by Stihl. Rob is the Technical Manager of Stihl Australia.  Adam Farquharson is the lead organiser of this year’s workshop. He is the Head of Forestry at the Forest Industry Training Centre, a division of the TAFE NSW Riverina Institute, and is based at the Tumut campus.

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 Gary Dunshea (left) will give a presentation called ‘Broadening your horizons’, focussing on ways to take advantage of broader opportunities and build new client bases. Gary is the Workforce Development Coordinator at Manufacturing Skills Australia.

Greg Howard (right) will lead the fundraising auction after the first night’s dinner, and facilitate some of the workshop sessions on Day 3. Greg is ATTA Treasurer and the Director of Timber Training Tasmania.

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14 – June 2014, Australian Forests & Timber News

head-lines

Reliability and productivity are the keys to a good machine I

F YOU want to find out whether a machine is good, bad or otherwise the best person to ask is someone who knows machines, their pitfalls and their prowess. So, I asked Matt Leov (Total Harvesting) what he thought about Waratah heads, after all, he’s wracked up quite a few years in the forestry industry.

His response was succinct ... “They’re productive and reliable.”

Total Harvesting is a family owned and operated business with more than 40 years of practical and contracting experience combined in thinning and clear fall, pine and blue gum, motor-manual and mechanized, ground base and hauler, cut to length and full stem logging in both steep and flat terrain.

Total Harvesting was established in 2004. Initially set up by Chris Jensen, Matt and Sarah Leov which now has 27 employees. Sadly, Chris (Matt’s father-inlaw) passed away in March after succumbing to bowel cancer.

“We are based in Albany, Western Australia, and harvest various plantation timbers such as radiata pine and blue gum around Australia.

“Total Harvesting has a strong commitment to the region, its employees and the timber industry, constantly striving to improve health and safety, value recovery to the forest owner and to improve productivity to keep the unit cost down.

“Our two main contracts, Albany – APEC 150,000t blue gum, Bunbury FPC 130,000t pine plus others,” says Matt.

The former Kiwi said the first Waratah head he used was in NZ and was the 624. “I first started in Kaingaroa forest working for PHS,” he recalls, and that was the start of a Waratah connection that continues to this day.

“The first Waratah head I used in Oz was a 616B. We bought six at once and we still have three of the original ones which are still working almost 10 years on!”

Total Harvesting’s current machines and heads used (on Cat and Komatsu bases) are:• 3 x 616C • 1 x 618C • 3 x 616B (one has done more than 18,000 hours) • 2 x 622B • 1 x 623C • 1 x 624C Matt says he has had more than 20 Waratah heads in his work in both NZ and Australia.

What do you feel are the standout points on the latest head (622B)?

Matt: “They’re productive and reliable.”

Why you chose this particular head?

Matt: “Versatility in the size timber we’re are going to be harvesting.”

Species (and sizes) of timber to be used on:•F irst thinning 0.1 to 0.3 •S econd thinning 0.2 to 0.7 •T hird thinning and clearfell 0.5 to 1.5 The head from an operator’s perspective?

Matt: “The operator Greg Viney loves Waratahs for their reliability and their productivity.”

Harvesting wood – the responsible way forward INTERFORST, THE key international Trade Fair for Forestry and Forest Technology will be held in Munich from 16 - 20 July with the theme “Harvesting wood – the responsible way forward” Just like the previous editions, Interforst 2014 will be accompanied by a well-founded professional supporting program that integrates science, politics and business into the trade show activity.

As at the previous editions, the Congress will again be at the heart of all trade show activities in hall B6. It will consist of two components: In the mornings, the focus will be on lectures of a scientific nature; the afternoons will be dedicated to forums dealing with practical issues and involving the trade visitors in the discussions. The 36 lectures will be given by well-known experts from Germany and abroad and will deal with a large number of topics

covering aspects ranging from sustainable and resource-efficient wood utilization over energy wood and trends in forest technology to potentials, strategies and markets.

Topics related to safety and health at work and the economic situation of forest enterprises will not be neglected either.

The Program Committee has succeeded in winning topclass speakers who distinguish themselves not only through their outstanding professional expertise

but also through excellent rhetorical skills.

The thematic fields of the Congress: future, utilization of wood, man and machine in the forest and the benefits of wood, cover a wide spectrum of topical issues and deal with the burning questions of the industry.

Interforst will commence on 16 July at 11am with the opening talk with Helmut Brunner, Bavarian Minister of State for Food, Agriculture and Forestry. The

discussion panel will deal with the “Activation of forest owners to ensure sustainable woodland management and wood utilization”.

Following a good tradition, the “Forest Farmers’ Day” will take place at the forum on 20 July It will be placed under the motto “How to cut wood properly” and is addressed to forest owners, self-cutting buyers and hobbyist sawyers. There will be practical demonstrations showing what is and is not allowed in the forest.

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16 – June 2014, Australian Forests & Timber News

head-lines

Plenty of thought has gone into new head O

NE OF the biggest advantages of Komatsu’s new S132 head is its ability to handle crooked trees.

It has been described as a dependable head suitable for final felling with 931.1 or 941.1 plus it has a 10 metre reach. The head is designed for wheeled Komatsu and excavator based Komatsu machines.

The Komatsu S132 (and all other heads in S-series) is designed for minimal energy losses in the feeding process. Knife pressure is controlled from a sensor that is integrated in the vertical knife which ensures that the stem is correctly clamped into the feeding line.

The head has well placed guards and heavy-duty covers to protect internal components and hoses from damage.

Frame and felling link Multi-tree handling equipment is located on top of the tilt link.

The advantage with this is the possibility to collect two or even three trees before tilting down and feeding them through the head. It’s possible to equip with HD-tilt link for excavator installation.

Delimbing The head is equipped with four movable delimbing knives. Three of these are hydraulically controlled and the fourth is a pressure controlled, which also includes a sensor. This sensor provides signals to the other knives to make sure that the stem is properly attached in the head (knife pressure control). The Komatsu S132 is also designed with a fixed knife located in the bottom of the frame just above the saw box. This knife is used when predelimbing of the trees is needed, before the head is attached on the tree.

Feeding system The Komatsu S132 can be delivered with three different types of feed rollers. Two of them are

aimed to handle soft wood, one for hard wood debarking of eucalyptus.

The main difference between the soft wood rollers is the teeth height.

The one with aggressive teeth has a better grip in the stem. On the other hand that model can be too aggressive if the customer demands as little penetration as possible into the stem. If the customer requires gentler handling of the stem, the V-steel feed rollers should be chosen.

Both feed rollers are designed with a V-shape design and that ensures that bark and wood debris do not get stacked in the feed roller. Eucalyptus rollers have angled edges for debarking as eucalyptus demands complete debarking when feeding, the angled edges/bars makes the stem turn during feeding process.

Saw unit The head can be delivered with two different cutting units. The difference is that one has manual tensioning while the other has automatically adjusted chain tensioning. The S132 can also be equipped with stump treatment, which provides liquid to the saw bar for spraying on the stump surface when the tree will be cutting from the stump (independent of the choice of cutting unit). This system requires bars that are designed for liquid spraying. Stump treatment is used in order to avoid spreading of foams in spruce stands.

Hydraulic Komatsu’s S132 valve block is placed under the main hood.

The valve is easy to access when the hood is tilted up. In order to minimize oil leakage the head is equipped with ORFS coupling on almost every coupling. This will reduce the cost for refilling hydraulic oil in the machine, as well as low environmental impact, because of reduced oil leakage.

Length measuring system The head has a separate length measuring wheel which is located in the feeding line. The measuring wheel can be controlled separately as an option which is good when debarking/processing.

Service The S132 head is designed for easy access to service points as well as maintenance operations.

The daily service is done with one position of the head, that means good safety and short stop to minimize service cost to the owner. The head will be possible to order with two different spare part kits depends on which cutting units is chosen.

New debarking head for demanding logging KOMATSU FOREST is launching a new head model being C202E, previously known as the 378E. This large, high-quality, and highly-productive head can be adapted for the most demanding logging assignments.

The E signifies debarking making the head ideal for logging species such as eucalyptus.

The new head’s greatest advantages are its quality and durability, which together ensure high uptime. The frame and the two saw units are sturdy, the hood and hose protection have been improved and the hydraulics are very reliable. Servicing has also been made easier. All in all, this means a long service life with ease of maintenance.

The new Komatsu C202E has many options which means the head can be

tailored to many different needs. For example, the head can be equipped with a sprocket, saw bar, and chain for .404” or for ¾ pitch chain. The vertical knife can be ordered with a skid tip to follow crooked stems more closely. A feed system with no roller offset for non-debarking is also an option.

The MaxiXplorer control system provides the operator with improved functionality by allowing different switch positions via the computer. It automatically takes care of everything from the ADC - feed wheel traction control, knife pressures, to length and diameter measurements.

The C202E is suitable for XT430/430L and Timberpro TB630 Wheel carrier.

 Photos show 378E fitted to TB630 and XT430. The 378 was the forerunner to the C202E and basically looks identical.

Diameter measuring It’s possible to equip with two different solutions out of diameter measuring system. The standard diameter measuring sensors are located in the feed roller arms. For extra diameter accuracy the head can be equipped with one additional sensor for four point measuring system. That extra diameter sensor is located in the rear delimbing arm joint. The four point measuring system is an option.

Colour marking The Komatsu S132 is possible to equip with a colour marking system as an option. The system is able to handle two different colours that are sprayed on the log end from nozzles placed in the saw box. Colour marking tanks are located on the tilt link and the cups are coloured to make sure that the right colour will be filled in the right tank.

Australian Forests & Timber News, June 2014 – 17

head-lines

Input vital in developing specialist heads T

IGERCAT FELLING heads in Australia have proven to be very reliable, very productive, and popular, and as Tigercat continues to evolve these units in-field here in Australia with full Tigercat factory product support in some of the most demanding forest harvesting applications on the planet, in some cases this evolution is for the rest of the world, but most specifically the Southern Hemisphere Plantation Eucalyptus, Pine and Acacia operations.

Following is a brief summary of the main heads currently being used in Australia, and also some brand new heads that Tigercat is developing which will prove very popular once the traditional native hardwood industry returns to its rightful productive self.

The current status of Tigercat’s relevant heads for the Australian industry (not all nine Tigercat felling attachments on offer are appropriate for the Australian Industry) is: DT2002 Shear Head. Although the original head was designed back in the mid-1990s for North American pine operations, it has been transformed over the years, and now evolved into what is universally considered the premium plantation eucalyptus felling head for the blue gum applications in Australia.

High cutting production, reliability, low maintenance, and longevity have been proven over and over again in the local conditions, where disc saws have

been avoided mainly due to highly abrasive soil conditions, rocky terrain, and the higher risk of associated bushfire dangers.

The series “2” DT2000, has evolved through thorough and well designed in-field prototype testing and evaluation with local contractors back in 2008 in Australia, and is now close to the magical “zero maintenance” felling head that this application requires and demands.

The revolutionary shear arm pivot bearing design is extremely reliable, strong, and by far the best in the industry.

The robust, hardened steel chassis design, bronze alloy bushings in the grab and accumulate arms and the toughest shear blades on the market make this a “must have” tool for our ever demanding Feller Buncher conditions.

Replaceable hardened steel wear strips for the very sandy Mount Gambier/Portland, and southern Western Australian regions, and daily greasing is basically all that’s required.

Commonly specified for this head on the market-leading Tigercat 855C carrier is the 340 degree high rotation wrist. Weighing just over 3600kg, it’s Tigercat’s strongest and heaviest head made to date.

Typically this combination with the 855C can see production rates of around 600 stems per hour, with the very high flow rates from the base carrier and clever hydraulics accounting for this previously unseen speed for a shear head.

The massive 0.62m2

accumulation pocket allows for larger bunches, subsequently boosting skidder production and reducing fuel consumption as the skidder can more quickly accumulate a load. The shear improves the flow of the whole tree to roadside operation.

This head is void of complex electronics and valving on the head, and relies on the base machine to supply all the hydraulic flow and pressures to run it, again meaning reliability and simplicity is enhanced. The Tigercat base unit supplies fully proportional and operator adjustable pilot control for all head functions, giving very smooth activation and deactivation of all head circuits.

The 855C/DT2000 combination is now being used very successfully in the ever-growing South American market but the whole concept was conceived, pioneered and evolved in Australia, with extensive customer participation, great dealer back-up and full Tigercat factory product support.

ST5702 Disc Saw. Tigercat recently made a number of design enhancements to the 5702 felling saw aimed at increasing versatility and performance in a wider variety of felling conditions.

Although the 5702 is well known and widely used throughout the world for big timber felling applications, the next generation 5702 features an all-new accumulating arm design. The arms are longer with a revised profile to improve accumulation of small trees, increased

 DT2002 Shear Head.

accumulating capacity and a reduced incidence of crossed trees in the accumulation pocket. (For contractors wanting to upgrade older model heads, a complete set of arms will fit earlier heads using the same link.)

Also in a move to increase accumulating capacity and performance, the front saw motor cover which formerly protruded into the accumulating area is now a flat cover. This increases the accumulating area and allows trees to move into the pocket more easily.

The left ski and saw housing exit have been modified to improve chip exhaust and to reduce plugging when felling large trees or when operating in deep snow

or heavy undergrowth. Service access and hose routings have also been improved.”

FC5185 Fixed Bar Saw Felling Head. The new FC5185 fixed bar saw felling head was designed when North American contractors working in niche hardwood operations complained of a void in the marketplace for a reliable and productive fixed bar saw head. This head has very quickly has proven to be popular with the owners of this attachment, who were heavily involved in the design process.

The main criteria that Tigercat was given was to build a tough, strong, and manageable head that would allow for the superior control of felling large high value trees.

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21/05/2014 3:47 pm

18 – June 2014, Australian Forests & Timber News

head-lines

 ST5702 Disc Saw.

 FD5195 Directional Bar Saw Felling Head.

 FC5185 Fixed Bar Saw Felling Head.

Aussie input vital in developing specialist heads It needed to be very simple in design and have a reliable and easily accessed saw assembly.

The FC5185 is designed for final felling and production thinning operations where cutting and placing the high value trees is of paramount importance and where steep and rocky terrain dictates the use of a bar saw in the operation and also allows for shovelling applications when required.

Tigercat designed a new highperformance 19mm pitch saw unit.

Mounted on two pins with spring support to allow the saw unit to move when loaded vertically, the design minimizes bent bars. The saw is available with a manual tensioner or an optional hydraulic tensioner as well as optional saw home and position sensors. The 1015mm bar allows for a single cut capacity of 840mm.

This head is also void of complex electronics and valving on the head, and relies on the base machine to supply all the hydraulic flow and pressures to run it, again meaning reliability and simplicity is enhanced. Matched to the Tigercat 822C or L830C base carrier this innovative combination is continuing to prove itself a winner in the right application.

Typically the Tigercat base unit supplies fully proportional and operator adjustable pilot control for all head functions, giving very smooth activation of all head circuits.

FD5195 Directional Bar Saw Felling Head. The brand new FD5195 has been developed for the Australian, New Zealand and South American market and without any doubt will compete very strongly in the directional felling head market in Australia.

Again, development is totally driven by our customer base and will be used mainly in final fell large tree operations on steep, challenging terrain with the unparalleled shovelling capability not seen previously in this model of head design.

Full 360 degree rotate with “through the link” central hosing for enhanced hose protection and extended hose life, oversized twin grapple cylinders for high performance grab capacity when felling cutting and shovelling, fast and powerful fully Tigercat designed saw cutting performance and fully matched to numerous tracked Tigercat base units ex-factory, puts this head in a class of its own.

Fully fabricated chassis and powerful, large grab arms have been designed for supreme strength and added longevity.

This head is also void of complex electronics and valving on the head, and relies on the base machine to supply all the hydraulic flow and pressures to run it, again meaning reliability and simplicity is enhanced.

Again, typically the Tigercat base unit supplies fully proportional and operator adjustable pilot control for all head functions, giving very smooth activation of all head circuits.

All Tigercat felling heads are fully designed, engineered and manufactured in-house, with absolutely no outside vendors performing any of the manufacturing process, so Tigercat has full quality control. The heads are fitted to the Tigercat base carrier and tested and evaluated at the Canadian assembly plant prior to shipping. Tigercat has full control of the build process from flat plate steel, to the finished machine.

DT2002 shear head specs:

• Height (without skiis) track: 2540mm (100in) • Width: 1900mm (75in) • Depth: 1730mm (68in) • Base weight (track): 2560kg • Hydraulic cylinders • Accumulating (cushioned) 90mm (3.5in) bore • Clamp (cushioned) 90mm (3.5in) bore • Shear blades: 165mm bore (6.5in) • Wrist options (track carriers) • 30° wrist • 1 cylinder 127mm (5in) bore • Weight with wrist, boom adapter: 3200kg • 340° wrist • 3 -motor drive: Optional • Weight with wrist, boom adapter: 3625kg • Operating capacities • Single cut capacity: 510mm (20in) diameter.

• Bunching area • Over buttplate: 0.50m2 (5.4ft2) • Over blade: 0.62m2 (6.7ft2) • Bunching 15 cm (6in) trees: 12

FC5185 fixed bar saw felling head specs: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

eight: 1830mm (72in) H Width (arms open): 1860mm (73in) Depth (arms open): 2010mm (79in) Base weight less wrist: 1950kg With 30° wrist: 2500kg Cutting Saw bar: 1020mm (40in) Saw motor: piston, high pressure, 40 cc Mounting: spring mount Chain tension: standard manual chain tensioner, optional auto tensioner.

Maximum cut: 850mm (33in) diameter Chain: 19mm (0.75in) pitch, 11h Wrist options 3 0° wrist: 1-cylinder; 127mm (5in) bore 340° wrist: 3-motor drive (optional) Grapple arms Maximum tip-to-tip opening: 130cm (51in) Minimum closed diameter: 10cm (4in) Grapple capacity: 0.49m2 (5.3ft2) Hydraulic cylinders Grapple arms: 2 x 95mm bore, cushioned Chain oil capacity: 23 litres, filtered

Hawke’s Bay host to major conference THE NEW Zealand Institute of Forestry 2014 Conference will be held in the Napier War Memorial Conference Centre from 6 to 9 July.

Hawke’s Bay is more than New Zealand’s fruit bowl and one of the country’s premium wine growing regions. The region’s logo may be ‘Hawke’s Bay Wine Country’ but local foresters would prefer to change the W to P! There is 135,000 hectares of plantation resource split between a few larger companies and many smaller growers.

Conference speakers will address key issues within each of the following sessions: • Operating within the law • Land use challenges • Shaping a better industry • Harvest volumes and logistics • Markets • Increasing the value of forests

FD5195 directional bar saw felling head specs:

• Height (to boom pin): 2045mm (80.5in) • Width (arms open): 2020mm (79.5in) • Depth (arms open): 1945mm (76.5in) • Weight: 2510kg • Cutting • Saw bar: 1140mm (45in) • Saw motor: piston, high pressure, 60 cc • Chain tension: manual chain tension standard, auto chain tension optional • Maximum cut: 950mm (37.5in) • Chain: 19mm (0.75in) pitch, 11h • Chain oil capacity: 23 litre, filtered • Grapple arms • Max opening: 1380mm (54in) • Minimum closing: 110mm (4.3in) • Grapple capacity: 0.56m2 (6.0ft2) • Hydraulic cylinders • Grapple arms (2) 95mm (3.75in) bore, cushioned.

• Tilt (2) 70mm (2.75in) bore

ST5702 disc saw specs:

• Height (without skiis) track: 2820mm (111in) • Width: 1620mm (64in) • Depth: 1700mm (67in) • Maximum front opening: 1320mm (52in) • Base weight (track): 2625kg (5,790lb) • Cutting blade • Disc diameter: 1450mm (57in) • Standard disc (series 74): 1-piece, 57mm (2¼in) kerf, optional. Wide kerf and narrow kerf blades available • Teeth: 18 rotatable; carbide or hardened steel.

• Motor: 160cc • Blade speed: 1150rpm • Saw drive: Direct drive; variable displacement saw motor connected directly to blade drive shaft.

• Hydraulic cylinders • Accumulating (cushioned) 90mm (3.5in) bore, optional 95mm (3.75in) bore.

• Clamp (cushioned) 90mm (3.5in) bore, optional 95mm (3.75in) bore.

• Arm configuration • Accumulating flexible: 2 • Clamp fixed: 2 • Wrist options (track carriers) • 30° wrist • 1 cylinder 127mm (5in) bore - Standard • Weight with wrist, boom adapter: 3200kg (7060lb) • 110° wrist • Adjustable - twin-cylinder • 115mm (4.5in) bore - Optional • Weight with wrist, boom adapter: 3280 kg (7,225lb) • 340° wrist • 3 -motor drive - Optional • Weight with wrist, boom adapter: 3320kg (7,320lb) • Operating capacities • Single cut capacity: 585mm (23in) • Bunching area • Over buttplate: 0.36m2 (3.9ft2) • Over blade: 0.50m2 (5.4ft2) • Bunching 15cm (6in) trees: 8-10

Max Range | Max Uptime | Max Value

Logging to the Xtreme!

Heads above the competition

W

ith its large, high-torque feed motors, the 7000XT gives you up to 45kN / 11,600-lb. of feed force and delimbing power. The Log Max 7000XT is available with two different feed motors: The standard motor has variable displacement axial piston motors, 660-1320 cc and the optional has fixed displacement motors, 1259 cc.

Harvester: The Log Max 7000XT Harvester configuration is built for extreme CTL operations. A durable harvesting head is available with or without a top saw.

Processor: The processor configuration of the Log Max 7000XT is equipped with a top saw plus a processor link and processor knives.

The 7000XT is part of the Xtreme series and has been developed to provide the logging industry with a durable head and to produce wood at the lowest cost per tonne possible.

Contact Johan from Log Max Australia on (02) 6947 4505 or 0408 614 503, or visit our website: www.scanforest.com

20 – June 2014, Australian Forests & Timber News

head-lines

There’s a head to suit the work you’re doing C

ATERPILLAR FOREST Products offers a full line of processing heads designed and manufactured by SATCO. Caterpillar will offer the line and provide parts and support through select CatÒ dealers worldwide.

In Australia and New Zealand, SATCO products are offered both through SATCO’s distributors and Cat dealers.

The processing head line ranges from a weight of 1190 kg (2,618 lb.) with a maximum cutting diameter of 635 mm (25 in.) to 3850 kg.

(8,500 lb.) with a cutting diameter of 800 mm (32 in.). The heads are matched with CatÒ Forestry Machines (FMs), the Cat 500 Series Track Harvesters and the Cat 501HD Harvester.

SATCO heads were built to handle the rugged logging conditions in New Zealand and Australia. The beefy heads are constructed using high-grade materials and have 80 mm (3+

in.) roller arm pins for strength and durability. SATCO’S “HOSE THROUGH CENTRE” design protects the hoses from damage and prevents over-bending. Main valves are rated at 420 bar (6100 PSI) and easily handle carrier pressures. The computer systems are simple and easy to use. Most SATCO processing heads are available with optional topping saws.

The new SAT322 medium capacity processor is especially well suited for Australia. It is a three-roller head that can be configured for either debarking eucalyptus and acacia or processing pine. Debarking stem capacity is 50-560mm (2-22 in.) in diameter and for processing pine 75-560 mm (3-22 in.).

The heavy-duty drive hub system of the SAT322 increases reliability of the drive motors because the weight and loading of the tree goes into the drive hub instead of the

gottstein trust applications for 2015 awards  SATCO 322 processsor on the 320D FM.

the Joseph william Gottstein Memorial trust invites applications from interested persons for Gottstein fellowships and Gottstein industry awards.

GOTTSTEIN FELLOWSHIPS Fellowships are awarded to people from or associated with Australian forest industries to further their experience, education or training either within or outside Australia by undertaking a project. Appropriate project topics are listed on the Gottstein website (www.gottsteintrust.org).

Candidates will be selected on the focus of their project, and on their ability to complete and disseminate the information acquired.

GOTTSTEIN INDUSTRY AWARDS These awards are available to assist workers in the Australian forest industries to improve their industry knowledge and work skills.

Applications focusing on small group study tours will be favourably viewed, although any relevant project topic may be proposed.

Candidates will be selected on the value of the project.

INTERVIEWS Applications for each category will be considered by the Trustees and promising applicants will be selected for interviews in October 2014.

FURTHER INFORMATION Further details may be obtained from the Trust’s website at www.gottsteintrust.org, or from the Secretary.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS The closing date for applications is 19th September 2014.

Applications should be forwarded to: Dr Silvia Pongracic, Secretary, J. W. Gottstein Memorial Trust Fund, Private Bag 10, Clayton South, VIC 3169 Telephone: 0418 764 954 Email: secretary@gottsteintrust.org

motor bearing. The 3/4 in. main saw system features a 45 cc saw motor and large diameter bearing for smooth cross cutting and felling of large diameter trees. Pins are 80 mm (3.15 in.) and 60 mm (2.38 in.) for strength and durability. SATCO’s “DEAD-LOCK” pin retention system prevents the pins from moving, extending service intervals and bushing life.

The SAT322T is equipped with a topping saw and the SAT322T SC has a topping saw and 404 in. main saw. All three processors can be paired with the Cat 320D FM, 324D FM, the B Series track harvesters

and the 541 Series 2 track harvesters.

For logging in Southeast Asia, the SATCO line also includes two continuous rotation directional felling heads, the SAT420 and SAT630. Both heads can also be used for shovel logging. The SAT420 mounted on a Cat FM can also be used to load trucks. Both heads are fully hydraulic with no electronics and have the same structural beefiness of the SAT322/ SAT322T processor. The SAT420 shares the same main saw system as the processor; the SAT630 also has the same saw motor and saw bearing but components for the bar holder

are designed to securely fasten the longer saw bar for cutting large diameter trees. Simple and strong, these heads are low maintenance and an economical first step up from manual felling.

The most productive single stem felling range of the SAT420 is 305508mm (12-20 in.) in diameter; for the SAT630 it is 457-762mm (18-30 in.). The SAT420 can be matched with the 320D FM, 324D FM, 325D FM, the B Series track harvesters and the 501HD harvester. The SAT630 can also be matched with the FMs and both the B Series and Series 2 track harvesters.

Let the robot do the dangerous work!

A REMOTE controlled tree-to-tree ‘swinging’ robot designed to improve the safety of steepland forestry has been recognised with a national engineering award from the Institution of Professional Engineers (IPENZ).

The device has been developed by Scion in partnership with the University of Canterbury, with funding received from Scion, Future Forests Research and the Ministry for Primary Industries’ Primary Growth Partnership program.

Developer, Scion’s Dr Richard Parker, cosupervised four engineering students from the university to design and create a working prototype of the device, nicknamed the ‘Stick Insect’ due to the way it moves. Students George Wareing, Sean Bayley, Scott Paulin and Thomas Gilbert were presented with the Rey Meyer Medal at the IPENZ annual Fellows’ and Achievers’ Dinner in Christchurch on Friday 21 March, which is awarded to an individual or group of engineering students for best final-year project.

The tree-to-tree robot can be manoeuvred remotely between trees without it touching the ground using grippers attached to each of its two arms, providing a mobility platform for steepland forests that can eventually be used to perform tasks.

“The challenge is to develop a lightweight remote controlled machine that can move over steep, difficult

and sensitive terrain without causing damage to the ground and yet tackle productive tasks costeffectively,” says Dr Parker. “The students showed great engineering flair by creating, designing, assembling and testing the components and control systems into a final working device.

“We have been trialling it in the mechatronics and robotics laboratory at the university to better understand its operating capabilities and are now working to incorporate gadgets such as sensors for measuring tree diameter, and custom-built saws for felling.”

The students built the quarter-scale prototype as their final year research and development project, co-supervised by the university’s Dr Stefanie Gutschmidt (Academic Supervisor). Dr Parker is now working with PhD students from the university and Paul Milliken from Cutover Systems Ltd to develop instrumentation and software for the device.

“We envisage that we can eventually develop a whole family of tree-to-tree robots which can perform productive tasks in the forest, such as felling, pruning and measuring trees, perhaps even refuelling robots. Humans will still need to oversee their operation and maintenance, but they will be able to do so at a safe distance from hazardous, steepland operations.”

Australian Forests & Timber News, June 2014 – 21

head-lines

Aussie made and tough, too A

USTRALIAN-DESIGNED and made Pulpmate forestry heads have gone to another level with the introduction of the new 652.

Basically, it’s an upgraded version of the 650, which was a success in its own right.

Changes in frame design include increased space for running hydraulic hoses and easier access for maintenance, plus the saw bar pivot position has been moved.

The main upgrade has been done at the saw with: • Larger heavy duty saw pivot bearing • Increase in gear contact surface for saw bar pivot • Upgrade saw pivot bearing retaining system • Upgrade in chain adjusting system – larger adjuster bolt and retaining bolts • Heavier construction saw gear guard The 652 retains the same rotation system (slew ring, gears, motors etc), same saw motor and bar motor, 4” beak cylinders.

Brian Wheeler, who contract harvests for VicForests in the Matlock area, is impressed with Pulpmate . In fact, the 652 is the second Pulpmate his crew has used.

I had a Pulpmate that did 11 000 hours before this one.

“This one has been running for 600 hours and there’s been no trouble so it’s all looking good.

“The new one’s got wider forks -a bit more room in there around the saw motor. They’ve changed the saw position. It leaves more of an even hinge on the stump; more rotating power to the right where they were always strong to the left with nothing to the right. Now it’s more even.

“Overall, it’s a lot better.”

Brian said it made short work of the hardwood ... “but you always want it quicker,” he laughs.

Brian, a third generation forestry worker, has a crew of five (“really, four and a half because we’ve got a trainee on,” he quips).

The outfit operates a Tigercat

self-leveller with a Pulpmate on it. a Komatsu 300 with a Waratah 24 inch, a 535 Cat grapple skidder and a couple of excavators.

Brian operates the new Tigercat with the Pulpmate and says he’s more than pleased with the result. “It’s going really well on that Tigercat,” he says.

Scott Ferguson and Steve Garrett formed Hardwood Forest Products Australia about four years ago and

continued the manufacture and development of the Pulpmate forestry head.

“I’ve been involved in the manufacturing of forestry attachments for about 12 years,” said Scott, “and Steve has been involved in the timber industry for 20+ years.

“We were both heavily involved with the development of the Pulpmate forestry head while at VHLC,” said Scott.

Forestry Attachment Specialists

A big tick for industry sustainability THE INSTITUTE of Foresters of Australia (IFA) has partnered with ForestWorks ISC to produce a range of learning and assessment resources for the Advanced Diploma of Forest Industry Sustainability.

CEO of IFA, Alison Carmichael, says they are seeking to capture the intellectual capital that resides in the industry.

“I believe IFA members collectively hold Australia’s definitive IP about forests and forestry,” she said.

“This project provides an excellent opportunity to tap this resource to share the knowledge and skills with others.”

ForestWorks CEO, Michael Hartman said that this initiative would bolster the learning potential of a qualification that can be used by industry to develop its capacity for sustainable development and to demonstrate how qualified our industry is on sustainability issues.

IFA has established a writing team to develop seven resources by the 30 June 2014. One of the first units they will be about carbon stock sampling of forests and plantations, and lead writer is IFA member Ms Zoe Ryan, an expert in forest carbon inventory and REDD+.

“This is a great opportunity to bring together what I know about forest carbon in a way that can be used by learners, and also by anyone wanting to upgrade their

skills in carbon measurement in a forestry context,” said Ms Ryan.

The Advanced Diploma will also contribute to filling a gap in the delivery of forestry education at a tertiary level.

“This qualification will be very popular with current industry participants looking to undertake further study, or to prepare for a move into executive positions,” said Ms Carmichael “and it will also be useful for those seeking to understand forestry prior to commencing an undergraduate degree.”

“The focus on sustainability means units can be used as continuing professional development for those seeking to better understand what sustainability is, and how it fits into a forestry business,” she said.

“The tools, checklists, and procedures that make up the learning activities may be able to be used in forestry workplaces to support change.”

The IFA writing team will be consulting widely with industry throughout the writing period. The content, activities and tools will be written for the sector and will be reviewed, and signed off, by industry personnel.

This project has been funded by Forestworks with support from the Australian Government Department of Industry.

Felling Heads & Grab/Saw combinations

5 Jersey Road BAYSWATER VIC 3153 Ph: (03) 9729 0744 Fx: (03) 9729 1844 Email: info@hardwoodforestproducts.com.au www.hfpaust.com.au

For Sale Forest Equipment Specialist

NOW in PRINT & ONLINE

Goldsmith Saw Sharpener Good Condition

$15,000.00 plus GST Call Glen: 0418 969 810

. go ed. to d y ar ad gu Re sh Bu

Sell your used equipment, advertise your tender, offer your real estate or find your next employee. For rates and deadlines call Michael (03) 9888 4834 or email: m.dolphin@ryanmediapl.com.au

22 – June 2014, Australian Forests & Timber News

Hyundai R210LC-9

Kobelco SK250-8

$POA

$80,000 + GST

Tigercat 1018 Forwarder

John Deere 748E Skidder

$79,950 + GST

$87,500 + GST

FOR SALE GREY TYPE BREAKING DOWN SAW PACKING SETUP

Phone Ron Grey 0414 657 393

Email rongrey@bigpond.com

For Sale

Tigercat L830 Feller Buncher

Tanguay TF975 Feller Buncher

$325,000 + GST

$150,000 + GST

All machines currently working and available for inspection at harvesting site in Southern NSW. Prices negotiable. 0418 633 715

$180,000 + gst Tigercat L830 feller buncher with Rosin FH885 directional felling head. In good working order, 17,500hr.

CAT 322CL Harvester

$150,000 + GST

$79,000 + GST Hitachi ZX230 excavator with VHLC log grab and 3/4in x-cut saw. In good working order, 16,000hr.

$81,000 + gst

TimberJack 460D 2002 mod dual arch grapple and winch. In excellent working condition and good tyres, 13,800hr.

BUNCHING GRAPPLES If you are looking for a heavy-duty grapple that will sort, bunch and load all day, everyday, then you need a Rotobec. Efficient and versatile, these quality grapples have just arrived and are now available from Onetrak.

1300 727 520

www.onetrak.com.au

$63,000 + gst Cat 325L excavator heavy duty log grab and 404 cut-off saw. Good working order, 15,100hr.

$90,000 + gst

Cat 527 track skidder with winch, an excellent snigging machine. In very good condition, 10,400hr.

Log on Today!

Classifieds

Komatsu WA500-3 Log Loader

Visit www.timberbiz.com.au/dtn to sign up today.

Australian Forests & Timber

$72,000 + gst

Australian Forests & Timber News, June 2014 – 23

FIREWOOD MILLS

For Information, please, call 0419-536 804 or email your postal address to info@firewoodmills.com.au

For Sale Logmax 10000xt; Bought new, 3 years old; 1 000 hrs.

Excellent condition, with topping saw and pine rollers.

New model Easy50 available now!

Different sizes of mills with optional feeding table and drum cleaner. Tractor, Diesel Power Pack or Electric Power Pack driven models.

Our Sawmill at the Greenbushes site in Western Australia has already closed and the dry mills and kilns will close towards the end of this year.

AVAILABLE NOW Processing Machinery

Wadkin XE220 moulder

Complete in good condition with cutters and blower. $28,000+GST

Biesse twin head

Point to point automatic machine centre.

The Company Directors say, “SELL IT ALL” Complete near new 2006 MEM sawmill 2 x other comprehensive hardwood mills 3 x moulding lines 15 x conventional kilns Kiln sawdust/thermal oil heating system 2 x optimising docker lines 2 x chipper lines Loaders & forklifts Edgers Cherry picker, scissor lifts Tool grinding shop Log debarkers Compressors Gang saws Maintenance work shop equipment & spares Weigh bridge Large clam shell storage bin Dust extraction systems Comprehensive sawshop Office equipment & furniture Huge inventory of materials handling gear Everything must go! We are even selling the buildings!

View our website www.whittakersequipmentsale.com.au or telephone Geoff on (08) 9302 2022 – mobile 0409 302 200 or Chris on (08) 9459 6877 – mobile 0409 083 977

$28,000+GST

Wolfenden Twin Circular Resaw

30kw, ideal for high production of sawn battens from 150x38 feedstock, (or similar operation), Hydraulic feed. $18,000+GST

Profiled moulding sander High capacity, multi head, give away.

$10,000+GST

Anthon 1.8mwide belt sander Very heavy duty, high production machine.

$15,000+GST

Dankeardt multisaw 30kw, (takes up to 8 blades).

$18,000+GST

Rhinbold offcut chipper Very good condition.

Austral Timber Group Contact Ken Baker 0438 643 992 ken.baker@ubteam.com

$16,000+GST

NOW in PRINT & ONLINE

All plant & equipment is being offered at super low prices on an as is where is basis!

Sell your used equipment, advertise your tender, offer your real estate or find your next employee. For rates and deadlines call Michael (03) 9888 4834 or email: m.dolphin@ryanmediapl.com.au

Yes – It’s true, Whittakers Timber Products is closing down!

$130 000 + GST. Nthern NSW Phone Mick 0438 008 161

Australian Forests & Timber

Visit www.timberbiz.com.au/dtn to sign up today.

Classifieds

Log on Today!

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KOMATSU 398 HARVESTER ATTACHMENT Proven for maximum productivity with precision and reliability.

When matched with the XT450L, an ideal combination for large thinning’s and smaller clear fall The Komatsu 398 special features: • Compact frame / Integrated hydraulic hosing

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Komatsu Forest Pty Ltd. 11/4 Avenue of Americas Newington NSW 2127 Australia T: +61 2 9647 3600 E: info.au@komatsuforest.com