Australasian Timber Magazine - November 2017

NOVEMBER 2017

Choose the Original www.hewsaw.com

Choose the Original MANUFACTURE • TECHNOLOGY • DESIGN • CONSTRUCTION

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Incorporating Australian and New Zealand Timberman – Established 1977.

ELENE RAPT WITH H TOP TRADIE TAG l CREATIVITY AND TECHNOLOGY CORNERSTONES OF AWARD l BIG PUSH FOR TIMBER PREFAB IN AUSTRALIA l 15% OF HOUSEHOLD JOINERY COMES FROM IMPORTED FLAT-PACKS

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Multifunction Bridge WMS • Increased processing speed and short set-up times • High and constant quality of all processings • Versatile processing options due to 12-slot tool changer

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NEWS

Creativity and technology the cornerstones of awardwinning building

C

reativity and technology are fuel for the innovation generation. International House Sydney is a fusion of these two components, giving a platform to develop a culture of change and to drive sustainable growth.

Standing at the gateway of Barangaroo, International House Sydney is set to become an icon for the new CBD, a pure expression of design excellence and an architectural response to Sydney’s place on the global stage.

Acclaimed Australian architects Tzannes and Associates designed the engineered timber building that uses Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) and Glue Laminated Timber (Glulam) to anchor the building to the waterfront history of Barangaroo, while also creating the future of commercial space.

Winners are: Residential Class 1 - New Buildings Munro Ocean Beach House Planned Living Architects - Brian Earles

Furniture And Joinery Conus Lighting Range Geoffrey Cameron Marshall

Residential Class 1 Alteration or Addition Victoria Gardens House Lucy Clemenger Architects Pty Ltd Lucy Clemenger

Landscape Northern Goldfields Regional Offices Donovan Payne Architects

Multi-Residential ETZ Townhouses FIELDWORK Public or Commercial International House Sydney Tzannes and Lendlease This amazing work has now received the accolades from an even wider audience and has been adjudged the 2017 Australian Timber Designs Overall Award Winner plus the highly coveted Peoples Choice Award.

The awards were presented at a glittering dinner in Melbourne on 25 October. Our next edition will feature pictorial coverage of the night plus a general wrap of the awards.

Interior Fitout -- Residential Fish Creek House Edition Office Interior Fitout -- Commercial Bendigo Hospital Bates Smart Standalone Structure Dynamics in Impermanence NLarkin Design

Sustainability International House Sydney Tzannes and Lendlease Rising Star Munro Beach Ocean House Planned Living Architects Small Budget Henry Street House Eugene Cheah Architecture Australian Certified Timber Charlotte Chapel Chris Graves Building Pty Ltd Engineered Timber Macquarie University Innovation Hub Lipman Timber Cladding EZT Townhouses Fieldwork Timber Flooring Aquas Perma Solar Firma CplusC Architectural Workshop Recycled Timber House Court House Peter Winkler Architects Timber Panels Macquarie University Innovation Hub Lipman Timber Veneers 12-Micron SJB Timber Windows & Doors Macquarie University Innovation Hub Lipman Innovative Structural Design Macquarie University Innovation Hub Lipman Peoples Choice International House Sydney Tzannes and Lendlease Overall Winner International House Sydney Tzannes and Lendlease ¢ Public or Commercial award & Overall award winner International House Sydney by Tzannes and Lendlease.

australasian

magazine Incorporating Australian and New Zealand Timberman – Established 1977.

November Vol.25, No. 7 Established 1977

4

Publisher and Chief Executive: Hartley Higgins General Manager: Elizabeth Bouzoudis Editorial: John Hudswell j.hudswell@ryanmediapl.com.au Adelaide: (08) 8369 9512 Out of office: (08) 7127 6370

Advertising: K ent Humphrys k.humphrys@ryanmediapl.com.au Adelaide: (08) 8369 9516 Timber classified: k.humphrys@ryanmediapl.com.au Adelaide: (08) 8369 9516 Production: Luke Westle

Subscriptions: subs@forestsandtimber.com.au Adelaide: (08) 8369 9522 Accounts: Adelaide: (08) 8369 9555 Postal Address: 630 Regency Road, Broadview, South Australia 5083 Phone: (08) 8369 9555 Fax: (08) 8369 9501

MEDIA

INDEPENDENT & AUSTRALIAN OWNED

FRONT PAGE: Jerilderie student Helene Mortlock won this year’s Special Award for a Woman in a Non-traditional Trade or Vocation at the 2017 NSW Training Awards in Sydney. Read more on Page 16-17 along with other Learning feature articles.

Conditions: The opinions expressed in Australasian Timber Magazine are not necessarily the opinions of or endorsed by the editor or publisher unless otherwise stated.

All articles submitted for publication become the property of the publisher. All material in Australasian Timber Magazine copyright © Ryan Media. All rights reserved. No part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic, or mechanical including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher.

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, the published will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions, or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published.

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER

NOVEMBER 2017

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NEWS

Opening doors to a career in forestry

O

neFortyOne Plantations, although only formed five years ago, has established itself as a leader in the Australian forestry industry. It’s a progressive company that is combining transformative leadership with deep forestry expertise to build on the success of one of the oldest softwood plantation resources in Australia and the largest in the Green Triangle Region.

Now, the business is offering scholarships that will have a twofold result ... (a) qualified personnel in the future and (b) community involvement.

This year’s full academic scholarship will meet all education related expenses for the successful student undertaking either 3rd or 4th year of their Bachelor degree in forestry or forest science.

“We have encouraged local applications from potential students who reside in the Green Triangle Region for whom scholarships will be available for students commencing 1st year of study of their Bachelor degree, either on campus or online,” said HR Manager Emma-Kate Griffiths.

“Like all the other forest owners

we’re finding that there are not as many forest graduates as there perhaps needs to be, especially in our region. We’re also looking at how we can get the students at the schools to be attracted to forestry as a career. This is another aspect,” she said.

For the successful candidate, OneFortyOne will also have summer holiday work experience available at their regional office in Mt Gambier, supported by travel assistance to and from Mount Gambier. The work experience is seen as an excellent way in which students can gain additional field expertise while they are undergoing studies.

“The universitiy we spoke to said that travel assistance for students was very important,” Emma-Kate said.

On graduation, the Scholarship holder will undertake employment in OneFortyOne’s Graduate Forester position which is a two-year appointment designed to allow for a broad understanding of OneFortyOne and how it operates, as well gaining skills and experience across the business and industry.

Push to boost use of prefabricated timber in Australia An industry-led movement is underway to increase the acceptance and use of prefabricated timber building (PTB) systems for large scale projects in Australia.

As part of a FWPA-funded project, researchers have been looking at the drivers for, and barriers to, the increased use of PTB systems in Class 2 to 9 commercial buildings, including apartments, hotels, offices and schools.

The benefits of the material are well-known, including a high strength-to-weight ratio, design and construction flexibility, general environmental credentials including carbon storage, and prefabrication’s suitability for use on restricted access and other difficult sites.

In addition, legislative constraints have now largely been removed, thanks to changes to the 2016 National Construction Code.

Increased awareness of successful developments utilising PTB systems due to widespread media coverage and multiple award wins, coupled with the continued growth and population density of Australian cities and regional centres, means that opportunities for the material’s use will only increase.

Despite the obvious attractions, some perceived and real barriers

continue to have an inhibiting effect on the uptake of PTB systems.

Established conventions defaulting to steel and concrete, the need for an accessible and affordable supply chain, ensuring effective industry training, and a lack of proactive communication of the viability and benefits of timber alternatives continue to temper opportunities.

To overcome these barriers and leverage momentum, an increasing number of new PTB solutions are being developed and commercialised to compete with both traditional construction methods and increasingly sophisticated steel and concrete prefabricated solutions. Technical solutions are now being established for many of the issues associated with PTB systems which, along with continued industry education, are likely to be the key means of influencing their increased usage.

“An increase in large scale mid-rise PTBs, alongside the increasing nationalisation and internationalisation of the top tier building companies, suggests market acceptance will grow as PTB buildings increasingly become viewed as the norm,” said Ric Sinclair, Managing Director of FWPA.

SCHOLARSHIP including holiday work experience and graduate employment.

2018 APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN Visit www.onefortyone.com.au or call 8724 2700 for details Forestry Industry

innovation

AWARDS 2017 WINNER

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AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER

NOVEMBER 2017

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NEWS

Australia’s pulp and paper industry a world leader in sustainability and innovation 60,820 full time equivalent jobs, more than 30,000 of which are in regional Australia. More than 95% of the wood fibre used in the manufacture of pulp and paper and paperboard in Australia is independently certified.

A

n independent report assessing Australia’s pulp and paper industry confirms it is a world leader in sustainability and innovation, setting the agenda with ambitious investments in renewable energy and cutting-edge technology to underpin local manufacturing and many regional jobs.

“This report reinforces the many socio-economic benefits the pulp and paper industry delivers to the community,” said Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) CEO Ross Hampton.

“Australia’s pulp and paper mills support almost 70,000 full-time jobs - mostly in rural and regional areas and generate $940 million in exports.

“Operations such as the Visy Pulp and Paper Mill in Tumut in regional NSW and Norske Skog’s Boyer Mill in Tasmania generate many flow-on benefits. Every job at Visy’s Tumut mill has created two additional direct jobs in the local and wider regional area. Visy is also planning further paper recycling and production investments that will add even more value to the plantation timber resources it utilises.

Together with additional energy productivity enhancements, these will flow through to more high-paying manufacturing jobs in Australia.

“Similarly, an assessment of Australian Paper’s Maryvale Mill in regional Victoria shows that each job at the mill creates more than one additional job in the Latrobe Valley region, almost two further jobs in Victoria and more than 3.5 additional jobs across Australia.”

The Report also found Australia’s percentage of paper and paperboard recovery and recycling has increased dramatically over the last decade, putting it ahead of Europe and the USA. At 73.7 per cent, Australia’s implied paper and paperboard recycling rate compares favourably to

¢ S enator Anne Ruston, Minister for Industry Arthur Sinodinos and AFPA CEO Ross Hampton discussing the 2016 Pulp & Paper Sustainability Report.

Europe, at 71.5 per cent, and the USA, at 66.8 per cent. The sector is also supplied by a local forest industry that ranks highly for independently certified, sustainable practices.

“In addition to performing well in the areas of sustainability, economic contribution and job creation, the report has found that the pulp and paper industry continues its energy efficiency push, recording emission reductions in the past year the

equivalent of removing 39,308 cars from the road or powering 146,487 houses.”

The 2016 National Pulp and Paper Sustainability Report, prepared by independent pulp and paper industry consultant IndustryEdge, and published by AFPA, looked at key sustainability indicators including regional employment and economic development, wood fibre sustainability, energy efficiency,

trade, water use, innovative new products, and recycling. According to the report, driven lower by a plunge in consumption of newsprint and progressively lower demand for other printing and communication papers, Australia’s total demand for paper and paperboard fell 4.4% in the 201617 financial year. In volume terms, the decline was more than 143,000 tonnes.

Timberlink launches new employment opportunities campaign Timberlink’s growth and reinvestment has been significant over the past five years and the plans are for this to continue. With this strategic imperative of growth and sustainability, the company has recently launched a campaign promoting the employment and career opportunities at the Australasian company.

Since becoming Timberlink, the business has increased its employment by 151 additional full-time equivalent employees over the past five years and these additional people have joined the business from a range of industry backgrounds, technical disciplines and skills sets.

“We are very proud of our growth and the exciting new opportunities with our business, both for internal promotion and external

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recruitment,” said Timberlink’s CEO Ian Tyson.

“The one common ingredient in all of this is our commitment to our personal and professional culture. It’s those ingredients that will help us continue to be successful with our customers and also provide rewarding jobs and careers with Timberlink.”

The new employment campaign was launched in August and includes both traditional and online media to promote the Timberlink business as

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER

NOVEMBER 2017

being “big technology, big machinery, and big on safety and people”.

The themes are obvious and probably could and should apply to the whole industry, especially when you look at our whole supply chain.

Timberlink is proud and pleased to be leading the charge on promoting these aspects of their company and the overall timber industry.

The company, which has three sawmills at Bell Bay (Tasmania), Blenheim (New Zealand) and Tarpeena (South Australia) that manufacture plantation structural pine products, has a number of opportunities currently in its regional operations and also at its Melbourne office.

Contact hr@timberlinkaustralia.com.au

www.timberbiz.com.au

Wood Protection

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NEWS

News Briefs Housing starts crash in first half of year

Property consultant firm Knight Frank has reported that housing starts in India’s eight largest cities fell over 40% in the first half of 2017, the biggest drop in the last seven years. The weak market sentiment was, said the consultants, due to the lingering effects of demonetization and the problems builders are having dealing with new regulations.

Moving into mass timber production

Turnkey modular construction company Katerra plans to open a mass timber production facility in Spokane Valley, WA. The 250,000-square-foot plant will produce engineered wood products including cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glulam. The facility will generate 150 jobs. The company is working with Washington State University’s Composite Materials and Engineering Centre to develop and test the products.

Rise in Japan’s log and sawnwood exports

In the first six months of this year Japan exported almost 480,000 cubic metres of logs, up over 50% year on year.

Sawnwood exports jumped almost 60% to around 63,000 cubic metres in the same period. China was the largest buyer of Japanese logs and the Philippines became one of the major buyers of sawnwood. Importers in Taiwan P.o.C have expressed interest in Japanese plywood, LVL and CLT. Japanese sawnwood is exported to the US where it is used as a substitute for western red cedar for fencing.

Fibria’s new pulp mill start-up

International technology Group Andritz has completed start-up of key production technologies and equipment for Fibria’s new pulp mill in Três Lagoas, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Fibria’s new pulp mill has a production capacity of 1.95 million tons of eucalyptus pulp per year.

Combined with the existing mill at Três Lagoas the total production capacity reaches 3.25 million tons per year, thus making Três Lagoas one of the largest pulp production sites in the world.

Japanese wood products exports rising Japan’s wood products export this year is increasing. During January and June this year, log export volume was 479,141 cbms, 51.2% more than the same period of last year and lumber export was 62,557 cbms, 58.6% more. China is the largest buyer of Japanese logs and Philippines becomes one of major lumber buyers. Next target is to increase export of value added products like plywood and lumber from logs but for this, development of new markets is necessary.

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Quadrupling CLT production

SmartLam, the first commercial manufacturers of cross-laminated timber (CLT) in the U.S., is expanding its operations and headquarters into a former Weyerhaeuser lumber mill property - quadrupling its production.

Going from 20,000 cubic metres of CLT annually to over 80,000 in the new facility, the company will also install a state-of-the-art equipment line and add 75 new employees. The expanded site will also help SmartLam develop new types of engineered wood. “As more architects and builders learn about the performance and efficiency of CLT, demand for our products has accelerated rapidly,” said Casey Malmquist, president and general manager of SmartLam.

New website optimises user experience

Completely new “package”

Thimm Verpackung has celebrated the official opening of its new Holledau plant in Bavaria. State-of-the-art production technologies, efficient and highlyautomated processes coupled with a flexible, customer-oriented organisation with a comprehensive service element are just some of the highlights of one of the most advanced plants in Europe.

Testament to this at the new Wolnzach site are the installation of latest generation rotation and flat-bed cutting technologies in addition to the high-tech corrugator.

Perfect pivotal plywood planter

Danish architects Sine Lindholm and Mads-Ulrik Husum have reworked their Ikea-born Growroom pavilion to create an even simpler and more versatile system for constructing urban planter structures.

GrowMore is a modular, open-source system made entirely out of CNC-milled plywood. The combination of just six basic plywood shapes and planter boxes can be used to construct any number of unique structures tailored to their setting—from circular “nests” to zigzagging screens. The trick is a circular “pivotal joint” that uses M8 bolts to secure elements at different orientations.

Old material to solve new problem Architects are turning to one of the oldest construction materials to solve a new problem: how to build homes without damaging the environment. A London firm says sustainable timber could help the city address its housing shortage while reducing carbon emissions.

Andrew Waugh, a founding partner at Waugh Thistleton, told CNNMoney.

“We need to change the way we live for climate change.” Buildings are responsible for approximately 45% of carbon emissions in the U.K. but very little attention is paid to the role of construction materials, Waugh said.

¢ Eileen Newbury, national WoodSolutions program manager and national marketing and communications manager for Forest and Wood products Australia (FWPA) ... ringing in the changes!

S

ince it was first launched five years ago by Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA), the WoodSolutions website has steadily grown in scope and traffic, attracting some 3,000 visitors each working day, becoming the world’s leading online resource of its kind.

Now, the launch of a new website, with improved navigation and functionality throughout, is part of the organisation’s ongoing commitment to lead the charge in terms of education for the design and build industry relating to wood and wood products and to enhance the quality and availability of information.

“The review process was an invaluable exercise,” said Eileen Newbury, national WoodSolutions program manager and national marketing and communications manager for Forest and Wood products Australia (FWPA), “talking to design, development and construction professionals who specify building materials about how they used the old site provided insights that we’ve incorporated into the new website design. The new site will allow our visitors to have a very informative experience”.

The new WoodSolutions site content and features include; • new case studies • a user bookmark function • the ability for users to submit case studies

• improved site search • optimisation for all devices and screen sizes.

Popular content from the old site, such as free downloads of over 40 technical design guides and other publications and the expert advice service have been maintained and improved where identified.

“We are aiming to provide a onestop online resource for specifiers in the design and build industry from architects to developers and through to the supply channels. Designers can come to the site, identify the materials they need in a case study and source them through the Supplier section,” said Ms Newbury. “We also offer visitors the ability to upload their own case studies, subject to moderation, enabling them to showcase their own projects and services.

“Interestingly, we see increased opportunities for professionals to register in the Supplier section,” Ms Newbury explained. “It is an ideal avenue for professionals such as architects, engineers, designers and builders who specialise in timber to identify and contact each other – it’s potentially an online networking opportunity!” Supplier listings are free, with the option to provide a short company description, a logo and external link to the supplier’s website.”

“The WoodSolutions website has steadily grown in scope and traffic, attracting some 3,000 visitors each working day, becoming the world’s leading online resource of its kind.”

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER

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www.timberbiz.com.au

SOLID WOOD

PANEL PROCESSING

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NEWS

Site solutions start from above

D

rone system is fast, accurate and creates efficiencies in subsequent construction stages Six Komatsu Australia in-house pilots have recently received their ‘wings’ as certified drone operators, allowing for the ability to provide a total site solution, site surveying services literally miles ahead of ground-based alternatives.

Komatsu national technology solution expert manager Aaron Marsh said obtaining the remote pilot licences was crucial for the company because it dovetails into Komatsu’s SMARTCONSTRUCTION integrated business model, providing a multitude of advantages for the initial site surveying stage and beyond.

“The main advantage of aerial surveying using unmanned aerial vehicles is that it is fast and accurate and creates efficiencies in subsequent construction stages such as earthmoving,” said Mr Marsh.

“For example, the 3D drone data can be fed into our Komconnect application to automatically calculate the area and volume of earth to be moved and our customers can access it in real-time.

“Likewise, our factory-integrated intelligent Machine Control machines operating on the ground can update the as-built ground conditions as they go for accurate cut-and-fill volume reporting. The drone-captured data can also be used for stockpile calculations and ongoing review of construction progress and site logistics.

¢ Drone

surveying is fast and accurate compared with traditional land-based surveying.

“All round, it makes for a much more streamlined and therefore more economical process. What used to take days and weeks can now be completed with negligible manual effort.”

The remote pilot certifications were obtained via Newcastle, New South Wales-based specialist training company Aviassist. Aaron said that the Komatsu pilots sat a week-long intensive unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) course, certified by CASA, the Civil Aviation

Safety Authority, which Komatsu required to fly its high-precision drones commercially. With the help of Aviassist and its professional training team, all six pilots successful completed the course.

On course completion, Komatsu applied to CASA for a commercial operator’s license and during this time.

“Aviassist were kind and helpful enough to help us work under their operators’ licence until we received our accreditation and have been great with

¢ S ix

Komatsu Australia in-house pilots have recently received their ‘wings’ as Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA)-certified drone operators, allowing for site surveying services literally miles ahead of ground-based alternatives.

ongoing advice for our company and our chief pilot if we need any guidance or assistance,” continued Mr Marsh. “Now we are fully qualified and ready to fly directly for our customers entirely as Komatsu, under our own business model which includes our own insurances”.

Aviassist managing director, Ross Anderson, said he was impressed with Komatsu’s in-depth embrace of drone technology for its business offerings.

“It’s great working alongside industry leaders such as Komatsu integrating drone technology into their day-to-day business. The integration between drone technology and machine control is very powerful,” Mr Anderson said.

“It is crucially important that drone technology is implemented safely, as industry stands to benefit from safer and more efficient ways to capture information. Komatsu has proven this in their processes and culture.”

Komatsu employs Skycatch highaccuracy survey quadcopter drones which create sub-5cm accurate 3D point clouds. He said that while he recommends Komatsu pilots operate the drones, there are also other alternatives for our customers to fly themselves or for their own pilots to use.

“With the SMARTCONSTRUCTION business, this really rounds out our offering providing an end-to-end solution for our customers,” continued Mr Anderson. “Now we can handle everything. We can fly the drones and collect the data and use that data through Komconnect which is part of the SMARTCONSTRUCTION part of the business, or we can hand the data over to the customer. We’re conducting flights and doing demonstrations for customers right now so get in touch.”

Fire protection polymer with many applications PAINTS AND building materials reinforced with fire-retardant graphene polymer could soon be produced in Australia under a partnership involving Adelaide researchers.

West Australia based-graphite producer First Graphite will soon start construction of Australia’s first commercial graphene production plant generating up to 90 tonnes of graphene to be used as a new generation of fire-retardant, and adding a 10

new layer of protection against building fires.

First Graphite holds the worldwide licence agreement to exploit Adelaide University’s development of a graphene-based fire retardant technology.

First Graphite and the Adelaide University product line will focus on two product lines: Graphene paints for fire resistive coatings, including wall papers, fibres, wood fences and

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER

NOVEMBER 2017

building cladding; Fire Resistive engineered wood, including particle-board, chip board and gyproc wall material.

Other prospective uses are as a protective coating on fabrics, uniforms and military hardware.

Graphene is the world’s strongest known material and can withstand temperatures of up to 700 degrees.

www.timberbiz.com.au

BUSINESS PROFILE

Hundegger – a massive year in review

Innovation in timber engineering

INTRODUCING THE ALL NEW SUPERCHARGED TIMBER COMPONENT CUTTER

TURBO-Drive ¢ For

timber frame and large carpentry style components, the K2i can perform almost any task.

T

hey say “time flies when you are having fun” and this year has certainly flown by – but it’s not over yet!

Charlie Hutchings, the Managing Director and owner of Hundegger Australasia Pty Ltd, has always supported the German Hundegger operation philosophy “Our employees and our customers are the pillars of our company” and considering the longevity of some of the local staff and returning customers who purchase the Hundegger machinery, it is clearly working.

The early days of the Hundegger K2 machine, then the multiple installations of the successful iterations of the Speed-Cut machine range (cutting and processing), has been expanded with the high-speed TURBO-Drive and super flexible ROBOT-Drive machines. They are all at the very heart of the timber wall frame and truss manufacturing process, with cutting, drilling, end profiling, slots and other forms of mortise and tenon profiles. These multiple processes on a single workpiece are all being performed in one place, at one time. Larger machines like the Hundegger SPM-2 and the PBA for processing large composite products and CLT panels are also installed and operational in Australia.

So, what makes 2017 special?

Well, this year in Australia there have been 16 installations to 14 customers who collectively own 30 Hundegger machines. It is clear to see that many of the customers are returning for their second, third or in one case - fifth machine.

Matt Armstrong from Australian Timber &Trusses Pty Ltd in Nerang, Queensland, says “the addition of inkjet

printing, the speed of the machine and the built-in optimisation and relationship with Hundegger made it an easy decision to add the fifth Hundegger Speed-Cut to our operation”. That illustrates the strength and importance of the relationship on both sides – purchaser and supplier, and is a clear indicator that whatever Hundegger and their customers are doing – they are doing it right.

The first Hundegger PBA machine for CLT panel processing in Australia was installed mid-year for the largest CLT plant in the Southern Hemisphere – Xlam, in Barnawartha, west of Wodonga and further, Xlam confirmed another Hundegger PBA machine is on order for their Nelson site in New Zealand. These two Hundegger PBA CLT processing machines are the first and second installed in the Southern Hemisphere and are consistent with the growing acceptance and in fact demand for CLT building products.

In early 2017, Hundegger Australasia moved to significantly larger premises, employed additional Technical staff and a General Manager and with plans developing for a training and demonstration machine, are well positioned to play a leading role in the increasing move towards greener, more sustainable buildings - made of wood.

Government policies for “Timber First” and new building codes for timber structures will see an increased focus on taller timber buildings and Hundegger are emminently well equipped to support that shift. With a customer pedigree the envy of many other suppliers, and a sales and technical presence that extends across Australasia, 2018 is already looking like an exciting year.

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Hundegger Australasia Pty Ltd Charlie Hutchings 2 Hi-Tech Place Rowville Victoria Australia 3178 T: +613 9763 5766 Email: enquiries@hundegger.com.au Web: www.hundegger.com.au

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K2i processing a structural panel. The K2i can accept EWP and composite panels up to 1250mm wide

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NEWS

Study shows that 15% of household joinery comes from imported flat-packs

F

oreign flat-pack imports make up approximately 15 per cent of the total household joinery fitted in Australia each year, according to a new study commissioned by Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA) to illuminate what was previously a statistical black hole.

The study to develop reliable data around flat-pack imports was commissioned in response to industry fears that high volumes were flooding the domestic market, taking trade away from home-grown businesses.

Jim Houghton, Statistics and Economics Manager of FWPA, said that volumes were not larger than expected and the data could potentially alleviate concerns among domestic manufacturers, but that the key research objective was to fill a long-standing and problematic knowledge gap.

“The lack of reliable data relating to this corner of the market had the potential to result in poor business decisions and inefficient planning.

We hope this research will equip the industry with the tools it needs to make better informed marketing and production decisions,” he said.

In the past, trade data relating to flat-pack imports had been flawed due to factors including: a lack of available detail around potentially relevant import codes; the majority of imports being measured by value and without volumes or prices; and the wide

¢ Tim

Woods IndustryEdge Managing Director.

variety of different products within the category.

Tim Woods, Managing Director at IndustryEdge, which conducted the research on household joinery in 2016, said the methodology developed for this project would help in other studies on imported products, with figures on flatpack imports to be updated over time.

“The methodology developed to shed light on this previously uncharted area of the market will continue to have a

¢ Highlighting

the stats at the recent Insights & Outlook Conference.

life beyond this project,” he said.

In arriving at their findings, researchers worked with manufacturers, installers, wholesalers and importers to estimate how much joinery might be used in Housing Industry Association’s ‘standard house’, both for new dwellings and properties undergoing renovation.

Because not every house is the standard house, these calculations were then scaled using the average sizes of

different dwelling types. This gave a figure of 605,466 cubic meters of wood panels/ joinery substrate being fitted in Australia household kitchens during the time period.

It was then calculated that 516,194 cubic meters of that joinery substrate had been produced locally in Australia, leading researchers to determine the remaining 89.272 cubic metres (or 15% of the total) must have been imported.

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12

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER

NOVEMBER 2017

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NEWS

Award recognises achievements in creating real change in safety

O

NEFORTYONE Plantations, with its contractor partners in the OneSafe Group, are honoured to have been awarded the 2017 Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) Forest Industry Innovation Award for Innovation in Safety.

The award was presented to the OneSafe Group before 500 forest industry leaders and Government representatives, including the Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources Anne Ruston, at the AFPA Gala Industry Dinner, held at Parliament House in Canberra.

OneFortyOne CEO Linda Sewell congratulated the OneSafe Group on the achievement.

“In just 12 months, as a result of the intensive work and collaboration of the OneSafe Group, the collective injury incident rate has more than halved,” Ms Sewell said.

“This award is testament to the foresight and focus of the OneSafe Group in improving safety, in a way that has never been done before in the forestry industry.

“OneFortyOne is proud to be part of the OneSafe Group and congratulates all members on their achievements in creating real change in safety, and shifting safety culture in the forestry industry.”

Formed in May 2016, the OneSafe

¢ Anne Kerr, OneFortyOne Plantations (OneSafe Group Member); Willie Van Niekerk, OneFortyOne Plantations (OneSafe Group Member); Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull; Nick Roberts, Forestry Corporation of NSW (Sponsor of the Award); Tony Pasin, Federal Member for Barker.

Group is a collective Green Triangle safety group between forest owner (OneFortyOne Plantations); harvesting contractors (Harvestco), haulage contractors (Scheidl),

harvesting & haulage contractors (KC & MR Boult, Tabeel Trading, Moreland Holdings, Fennell Forestry) and a log marshalling contractor (ISO).

The Group will donate the $1,000 prizemoney to charity.

Forestry Industry

innovation

AWARDS 2017 WINNER

OneFortyOne Plantations congratulates the members of the OneSafeGroup on the Innovation in Safety Award Thank you for your collaboration on our safety journey.

We look forward to continuing our work in the OneSafeGroup with you and with our newer members: • Aldo Circelli • A&M Contracting • Bonojero • Clark Grading • Gildera Forestry Services • GPG Fencing • Helifarm • K&G Plantation Maintenance Services

www.timberbiz.com.au

• Kennedy Plantation Services • Kettle Logging • LV Dohnt • MGL Contracting • Nomad Contracting • Reid Logging • Tasman Trading • Vickery Bros • WFC Contracting

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER

 

NOVEMBER 2017

13

LEARNING

Why training and developing staff is last on the list for many employers in the forest and timber Industry

By June Dunleavy General Manager, TABMA Training

S

o you have just employed a new worker in your business. Your goal as the employer is to get them to be as productive as possible in the least amount of time. Typically, no matter what the job role is, you will most likely put them with an experienced worker and give them a few days training to make sure that they can do the job correctly, which validates your decision to put them on in the first place.

Sound familiar?

Most likely the new worker will learn on the job, but in reality it will take twice as long to get them up to speed because often the initial training is ad hoc, disjointed and carried out by someone who is possibly too busy to spend much time with the new worker and train them properly in the first place.

But is the above scenario good enough these days?

Is it typical for most small to medium businesses in our industry?

Based on our experience, we would argue that it is all too common practice. Most employers that don’t have a structured approach to training and development in place don’t see the value or the need or simply don’t make the time to adequately train both new and existing workers.

There are exceptions to the rule of course. TABMA members such as 5 Star Timbers, Versace, Hardware and General and Hudsons clearly see the need and value in effective training for their staff. That’s why they invest both the time and money into making sure their workers are trained effectively. And their staff retention rates reflect these good practices!

What about the current workforce

in the forest and timber industry?

Industry statistics suggest that over 2/3rds of the workforce are aged 50+ plus. In addition, the Forest and Timber industry suffers from extreme difficulty in attracting young people to employment as well as finding qualified people in specialist areas like the frame and truss sector such as estimators and detailers.

In response to severe shortages in this sector, most of the estimating work has gone offshore. Very few frame and truss plants are taking the time to train up new estimators/ detailers. Instead, they rely on “head hunting” from within the industry to attract the staff they need, often finding this a difficult, frustrating and time consuming exercise.

This sector of our industry will continue to struggle and more frame and truss plants will close as they no longer can compete with the larger plants who have focussed on developing their staff in this area like Laings Building Supplies.

Workplace safety Let’s turn our attention to workplace health and safety.

Since 2011, Australia has had a more unified approach to national workplace health and safety standards and regulations (harmonisation).

All businesses (PCBU- person carrying out a business undertaking) are required to have a systematic approach to workplace health and safety in place and clear evidence that they have consulted with staff and proactively identify hazards in the workplace, with risk management controls in place to manage such hazards.

To date, the respective State

¢ Ben

Cousins -- National Trainee of the year from ITI.

workplace Health and safety regulators have adopted a much more consultative approach to compliance with workplace health and safety in the workplace.

This is all about to change.

In Queensland, due to incidents resulting in workplace deaths at the Eagle Farm Racecourse and Dreamworld last year, the Palaszczuk Government has progressed a review of the role of Work Health and Safety Queensland and the provisions of the WHS Act and is planning to introduce a range of changes before the State election.

Harsher penalties

¢ L aings

14

Building Supplies -- Best Frame & Truss operation.

The changes proposed include harsher penalties for breaches of the legislation, changes in the of role of the regulator (WHSQ) to increase the focus on compliance, and the introduction of a new offence of “industrial manslaughter”.

Under the Government’s proposed changes, the maximum penalty for industrial manslaughter will be 20 years imprisonment for an individual, and/or a maximum fine of $10 million for a company. Industrial manslaughter refers to the workplace death of an employee or member of the public as a result of the negligent acts or omissions of an employer.

The proposed changes appear to reflect a view within the Government that employers have not done

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER

NOVEMBER 2017

enough in relation to the safety of employees and the public. Any increased emphasis on compliance and the application of penalties where breaches are identified is concerning and will require all employers to ensure a strong focus on workplace safety, including the safe operation of vehicles, including forklifts.

Sawmilling industry review In addition, WHSQ has just completed a a review of the sawmilling industry in Queensland and has introduced a Code of Practice for safe operations in this industry sector. No doubt at some stage, there will be a follow up of those sawmills deemed to be “most at risk” in complying with workplace health and safety standards.

And finally, what about our future leaders within the industry?

How do we develop the next generation of supervisors and managers within our industry?

Over 10 years ago, Hyne Timber implemented an innovative and very successful cadetship program which led to supervisors and managers developing strong skill sets and pathways in leadership and management roles.

Today, Hyne’s program is still regarded as a flagship program which led to effectively developing the skills and knowledge of these supervisors and managers who have now moved www.timberbiz.com.au

LEARNING on throughout the industry into various senior management roles.

More recently, ITI nationally, successfully completed a cadetship program with 13 of its trainees managed by the TABMA GTO in a dual Certificate IV in Business Sales and Leadership and Management qualifications. Over half of the graduates have now been earmarked for important roles within ITI’s operations.

Sadly, these examples are all too few within the timber industry.

Employers still count the cost of such programs rather than seeing them as an investment in the future of their business. This is even more surprising when a number of State Governments such as New South Wales (Smart and Skilled) and Queensland (User Choice) have allocated significant funding for both existing and new workers within various industry sectors.

Yet, why is the take-up of new traineeships in our industry so poor?

And, how do we develop future leaders in the industry if we are not prepared to invest in adequately training and developing staff?

So if you are looking to develop an aligned workforce with adequate capability and capacity, and wish to operate not only safely but profitability, then maybe it’s time to start rethinking how you are going to upskill and retain your workforce.

TABMA can assist you in many of the areas that have been mentioned previously such as Workplace Health and Safety Audits, recruiting new staff, employing trainees and apprentices, and upskilling the leadership and management skills of

your supervisors and managers.

Isn’t it time you started putting the training and development of your staff first on your list rather than last?

After all, what have you got to lose?

Only increased productivity, retention of staff, and better customer service. Not a bad trade-off if you ask me!

TABMA Training TABMA Training is Australia’s leading forest and timber industry training organisation. Established since 1998 (RTO 5343 FITEC Australia), with highly skilled trainers that take pride in delivering high quality skills based training and assessment tailored to suit specific operational needs of businesses.

All of our trainers are highly experienced with over 10+ years of direct industry experience. We can go to your site to customise programs to suit that will minimise downtime but will lead to the upskilling of your workers in the most effective way possible.

From full qualifications in key areas such as business, sales, warehousing, timber merchandising, manufacturing, frame and truss and sawmilling to short courses designed for maximum impact such as forklift, chainsaw, timber knowledge, customer service, workplace health and safety, and performance management.

Our training strategies are designed to increase job satisfaction, help retain staff and increase efficiency.

And your business or staff may be eligible for Government funding to subsidise various qualifications.

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NOVEMBER 2017

15

LEARNING

Helene rapt with Top Tradie Tag

J

erilderie student Helene Mortlock won this year’s Special Award for a Woman in a Non-traditional Trade or Vocation at the 2017 NSW Training Awards in Sydney. The TAFE NSW Certificate III in Carpentry and Certificate IV in Construction student, who is employed by Paul Ryan Building Contractors, was among 10 winners of specific Industry Excellence Awards and many other awards granted on the night.

The prestigious awards, conducted by the NSW Department of Industry, recognise the many vocational education and training (VET) students, teachers, providers and employers working across the sector.

“My training through TAFE NSW has definitely contributed to my lifelong love of construction. It has given me the motivation to seek further skills in this industry providing me with the springboard to other ends.

The confidence in undertaking study once more as a mother of three, wife to one and all other commitments considered, has been a great challenge but achievable with more reward than detriment,” said Helene.

From the country to the city and back home; from the desk to the drill.

Helene Mortlock’s move into what was normally considered a male domain is a story in determination and dedication.

As soon as she finished her HSC Helene, like many other country youngsters, couldn’t wait to head to the big smoke and university.

Off the hamster wheel Then, after 21 years the decision was made to get off the “hamster wheel” and move back to Jerilderie. “Husband Justin and I had made the decision to move our three kids back to the country so they would know the difference.

“Moving to a population of 700 definitely reduces the employment options -- which we knew. We just had to either find a niche or create one for ourselves, as our city jobs couldn’t come with us.”

¢ Member

SALT (Supporting and Linking Tradeswomen) - Advocacy for women in trades. “Photo of me with the banner of me, used as one of the displays, was taken at the inaugural conference held in Wollongong August 2016.

The next one is in Brisbane 2018”.

Helene originally set herself up in a little shopfront in the main street with her art studio. Having always loved buildings and Australian architecture she had honed her drawing abilities in her early 20’s to the point of being able to help ‘pay the rent’ from her commissioned house portraits, so she took up the pencils once more.

“My Father was/is slowing up with age and as the local builder in Jerilderie was keeping on keeping on.

My brother Chris Ryan had moved back from a decade of building in Canberra to help out Dad and so I decided to work with them,” Helene recalled.

And so started her carpentry career.

Touch of irony “I attended Griffith TAFE where both my brothers had been nearly two decades earlier! Ironically, doing

an apprenticeship was something I too would have liked to have done in my late teen years (post-HSC as my brothers had with Dad) but none of us ‘entertained the thought’ as I was a girl. So I was encouraged in my academic pursuits instead.

“I originally signed up as apprentice to Chris but with talk of him moving back to Canberra (where all his clients were missing him) I transferred over to Dad. “Dad has over 60 years of experience in the industry. He needed a capable body (I am) and I wanted to learn (Dad has a wealth of wisdom) and Dad’s not ready to retire entirely yet – too much knowledge to pass on.

“It’s a happy collaboration of skills and abilities and now I have finished my apprenticeship the hours can be flexed to ensure Dad gets to have plenty of flexi time or time at the desk making calls,” she said.

Like all apprentices, Helene started with the somewhat menial list of tasks ... one of which was sharpening all the chisels in the workshop!

It was in 2014 that she enrolled in the Certificate III in Carpentry at Riverina TAFE NSW, Griffith Campus. Then, in 2016 while attending TAFE for her three day ‘blocks’ every three weeks, she decided she could maximise her learning opportunities on those evenings. “With hours spent at home to compliment the in-class time, thanks to the ‘flexible’ delivery, I also undertook the Certificate IV in Building and Construction. This made those three days rather lengthy ones in class from 8am to 10pm but I was focussed and loving it so it was no bother.

“The good thing is I now have my Carpentry Licence and my Kitchen, Bathroom, Laundry (K.B.L) Licence.

¢ Family

trades .... Helene, her brother Chris Ryan, Dad (Paul Ryan), Hunter (the dog), John Crittenden and his son Ignatius Crittenden. Paul put Chris through his apprenticeship over a decade ago. Then Helene as the ‘last apprentice’. John employs his son Ignatius in their Heating and Cooling business also in Jerilderie.

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LEARNING

“This photo represents how much my Dad and brothers have supported me by just accepting me for who I am in life.

To this end of getting my apprenticeship and doing so with accolades that really are just a reflection of them. We’re all wearing Dad’s iconic Hard Yakka overalls for the fun of the photo.” ¢ ”Me, Dad (Paul Ryan), my brothers Michael and Chris Ryan. All dressed up in Dad’s iconic ‘trademark image’ Hard

Yakka overalls on Christmas day to celebrate my win of Outstanding Student of the year 2016 for Griffith Campus TAFE NSW”.

Getting some runs on the board “Once I feel I have shaken ALL the fluff off my feathers and ‘got some runs on the board’ I might apply for my full Builders Licence but I can tell you Dad has forgotten more than I will ever know; they are big Hard Yakka overalls to fill!!! So for now I am loving taking on what I feel is within my abilities and increasingly challenging myself and learning new things every day. For the bigger jobs Dad is the ‘go to’.

“Undertaking an apprenticeship where on-the-job training is complimented with off-the-job training has been incredibly beneficial.

It was uncanny how correlated the two were. It seemed I would learn one skill at TAFE then have to apply it on the job or vice versa and though the same outcome was reached, the methodology may have differed.

“How you are taught, who is the teacher, how much do they care, how much do they know… how information is imparted, is vital to learning. You may be trained by two separate individuals in exactly the same skill but the way in which it is delivered can have a huge impact on how well that knowledge is taken up,” said Helene.

“Having achieved well in my studies through TAFE NSW has bolstered the workload. I understand that people see value in efforts made to continually grow and develop - both personally and professionally and that translates directly back to rewards and satisfaction on so many levels for everyone involved.

“I would love to see where I could fit in a bigger organisation. But for now I am most happy hanging out with Dad - trouble shooting, doing, discussing, designing and keeping each other challenged,” said Helene.

None of this would have been

possible without a good grounding when growing up in Jerilderie, which is on the banks of the Billabong Creek in the Southern Riverina region (45km from the Victorian border) and Helene is quick to praise her parents ... “The life I have lived and the lives of my parents that I shared with them while a child under their watch taught me the awesomeness of resilience. My parents faced incredibly challenging chapters/

YOUR INVESTMENT IS IN GOOD HANDS.

¢ Dad,

Bro and Helene --’Woodpark’ renovation of Jackaroo Quarters.

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AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER

moments in their lives and seeing how they survived as individuals and kept us as a family shored up my own resolve to be a self-reliant and resilient individual.”

Her advice to others who wish to follow a similar path is --- go for it!

And what of the future ... “it would be great if one day the definition Non-Traditional is shelved from our vocabulary as a reminder of the difference of times in humanity”.

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NOVEMBER 2017

17

LEARNING

EWPAA lecture taps into deep interest by students

A

RECENT EWPAA presentation to Master’s students at the University of Newcastle’s School of Architecture and Built Environment tapped a deep well of interest in engineered wood systems by future building designers.

More than 40 students filled the classroom for a lecture by Dave Gover, CEO, Engineered Wood Products Association of Australasia; most intend to introduce the principles of the presentation to their Master’s thesis.

“The feedback from the students was exciting,” said Rebecca Whan, a university lecturer who helped coordinate the student program.

“Dave presented a thorough overview of new wood technology, products and systems, a lot of which had not been experienced before by the students.”

Ms Whan said this new awareness meant students would start to incorporate more engineered wood technology in their future building designs.”

She hoped the EWPAA lecture would be an annual presentation at the university and added: “If you look around the NSW central coast and Hunter region, there are many examples of engineered wood structures, with new projects opening both for commercial and prefabricated mid-rise residential.”

Rebecca, an associate at Jackson Teece Architects, Newcastle, has more than 10 years’ experience in architecture and has successfully delivered projects in the residential sector through to commercial and aged care projects. She lectures and tutors design and communications at the University of Newcastle and also sits on the local Institute of Architects committee.

¢ Dave Gover discusses engineered wood systems with architectural students at the University of Newcastle.

Looking on are Rebecca Whan, university lecturer (left) and Professor Michael Chapman, Masters of Architecture program convener, faculty of engineering.

Dave was introduced to students by Professor Michael Chapman, Masters of Architecture program convener at the university’s faculty of engineering.

Professor Chapman said interest in EWPs was ramping up; everyone seemed to be talking about timber in construction, particularly light weight prefab in mid-rise applications.

Georgios Anagnostou, a senior associate with Jackson Teece in Sydney who also helped coordinate the EWPAA lecture in Newcastle, leaves next week for an engineered wood

“Increased use of timber engineering technologies and products demands that designers and architects understand the potential and limitation of such technologies”

study mission to Japan as part of a Gottstein Trust fellowship.

Closer integration of architectural design and engineering wood systems will be a driving theme of the mission.

“The increased use and application of timber engineering technologies and products demands that designers and architects understand the potential and limitation of such technologies,” Mr Anagnostou said.

“Japan has a long history of timber architecture and construction rooted in traditional carpentry and joinery,” he said.

“This profound understanding of designing with timber has influenced architects worldwide until this day.”

Mr Anagnostou is actively involved in the timber design industry (architecture and engineering). He is currently involved with the design and construction of a significant timber/

CLT building and intends to further promote the use of timber construction in future projects.

The Gottstein fellowship will give him the opportunity to contribute to this sector and help create a closer connection between craft/ trade engineering and structural and architectural design.

In Tokyo, Mr Anagnostou will meet with a Japanese associate who will open doors to some of the city’s key architectural offices before visiting a graduate school of architecture and engineering and a meeting with representatives of the Japan Federation of Wood Industry Associations.

“Interestingly, I am catching up with a Canadian who has completed a course in traditional Japanese carpentry and has established his own company there,” Mr Anagnostou said.

Accreditation is endorsement of quality The University of Tasmania’s architecture program has become the third in Australia to be accredited by the Lembaga Arkitek Malaysia (LAM), or the Board of Architects Malaysia.

Graduates of the university’s architecture program will now be eligible to register as graduate architects with LAM without having to pass further examination.

Head of the school of architecture and design Professor Kirsten Orr said in a statement that the accreditation was an endorsement of the quality of the University of Tasmania’s architecture program.

“I am delighted with this outcome and we look forward to continuing to produce many more highly skilled, highly qualified Malaysian architecture graduates in the future,” Professor Orr said.

“The accreditation process was intensive and exhaustive and it revealed 18

the strength of our program, the excellence of our staff and the quality of the work produced by our students.”

Previously, all architecture programs in Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom were automatically recognized by LAM, which was discontinued after a meeting of the board in November 2014. But as of 1 January 2017, only programs that have been visited, validated and recognized

by LAM can be accredited.

LAM accredited Monash University in September 2015 and Deakin University in August 2016. Twelve universities in the UK. “Malaysia has traditionally made up a large part of our international student cohort and we have a strong network of alumni that covers the whole country,” Orr said.

The University of Tasmania’s architecture program consists of a three year Bachelor of Architecture and Built

Environments followed by a two year Master of Architecture.

The visiting accreditation panel was chaired by LAM President A.R. Dato Sri Dr Amir Hamza Mohamad Yunus.

The university also has international recognition under the Canberra Accord, as are all 18 Australian universities recognized by the Australian Institute of Architects.

Operational since January 2010, the Canberra Accord recognizes the quality of architectural education in Australia, Canada, China, South Korea, Mexico, the USA and in courses recognized by the Commonwealth Association of Architecture as being “substantially equivalent.”

This accord was signed with the intention to facilitate the portability of similar educational credentials, and makes it easier for graduates of Australian universities to receive accreditation in those countries.

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NOVEMBER 2017

¢ School

of Architecture and Design, UTAS by Six Degrees Architects and SBE. Image: Patrick Rodriguez

Australia and Malaysia signed a free trade agreement in 2012, under which Malaysia “removed the requirement Australian architects to complete a qualifying examination.”

www.timberbiz.com.au

MATERIALS & HANDLING

Combilift and the timber industry

C

ombilift’s range of multidirectional units offers ideal innovative cost-saving solutions to the timber industry no matter how varied or unique the requirement. Units are able to handle extreme lengths of timber, timber frames, palletised goods or a mix of merchant products.

With the ability to operate in the harsh conditions of a sawmill, right through to the precision manufacturing of furniture and other goods, Combilift is able to provide a full turnkey solution for any materials handling needs.

Combilift is renowned for its spacesaving attributes, allowing customers to work in aisles as small as 2200mm with lift heights over 10 metres, all the time providing one of the safest solutions possible to the timber industry.

Some of the many key Combilift advantages are:

Safer Product Handling

Space Savings

Combilift units are engineered to handle long loads safely. Units have greater stability when operating as loads do not have to be lifted high on the tynes. Tynes on Combilift units extend outwards beyond the integrated platform when picking up or dropping goods. When handling goods tynes are retracted and the goods are rested on the platform for ultimate stability.

Using industry leading patented technology Combilift’s unique 4-way steering system allows units to travel sideways with long loads as well as full multi-directional driving capabilities.

The ability to travel sideways allows owners to maximise their available storage space as aisle widths only need to accommodate the unit itself, when compared to a counterbalance forklift where aisles need to be wider to

accommodate the swinging of the large counterbalance when the unit turns.

Reliable Robust Simple Design All Combilift units are designed and engineered to the highest specifications to meet user requirements, yet they feature a minimum of sensitive electronic parts that ensures units are robust and have long operational lifespans regardless of the environment.

Indoor and Outdoor Use Units are fitted with heavy duty tyres that allow for both indoor and outdoor operation. Units are equally adept at operating on smooth concrete roadways or rough uneven terrain.

Units are available in a number of power variants including fuel efficient LPG, diesel or AC electric power. The unique ability to operate across all surfaces can save owners and operators Continued on page 19

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19

MATERIALS AND HANDLING

New electric multi-directional counterbalance 4,000kg capacity forklift truck

C

ombilift, the Irish manufacturer of multi-directional forklifts, has launched a new all-wheel drive, electric, multi-directional counterbalance forklift truck, with a lift capacity of 4,000kg.

The launch of the new Combi-CBE4t comes in advance of Combilift’s participation in Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland trade and investment program visit to Australia and New Zealand as part of the State Visit by Irish President Michael D Higgins to Australia and New Zealand.

The new innovative Combi-CBE 4t forklift was launched by Combilift, at the GIS, Lifting, Industrial and Port Handling and Heavy Transport show at the Piacenza Expo exhibition centre in Italy. It is based on the original multidirectional counterbalance forklift truck which Combilift brought to market in 2006. The Irish manufacturer is building on the success of the Combi-CB range of forklifts, with the launch of the CombiCBE 4t with a lift capacity of 4,000kg.

Previously the electric model was only available up to 3,000kg.

The all-wheel drive Combi-CBE 4t, coupled with large rubber tyres, allows the truck to work effortlessly indoors and out and to work on all types of terrains. Its versatility enables it to offload from HGVs, bring product directly to racking or free stacking areas, as well as to feed production lines.

Combined with load sensing steering and no fumes, this means that this forklift is ideal for indoor warehouse operations.

Side shift comes as standard and an integrated hydraulic fork positioner is an option to facilitate the handling of various sized loads, without operators having to leave the cab to manually adjust the forks. Driver convenience and comfort is also a consideration in the design of the new Combi-CBE 4t.

Hydraulic steering and synchronised front wheel positions allow for ease of control while driving in all directions.

Speaking at the launch in Italy Combilift’s Managing Director Martin

McVicar revealed that the new forklift was developed in response to a specific customer request for heavier lift capacities on electric forklift trucks.

“This product is a clear example of Combilift’s approach to meeting our customers’ requirements. We work with our customers to ensure that the end product meets their needs. This forklift is particularly interesting to the Italian market where 93% of forklifts are electric. The initial enquiry came to us in 2015 and this week we are delighted to launch the Combi-CBE 4t in Italy before delivering it to an Italian customer. It was delivered after exhibition by Euro Assistance, our Italian dealer to Mirrione Legnami, a company specialising in wood products and the timber and lumber industry located in Sicily.

“This is the first Combilift product that Mirrione Legnami has purchased and epitomises the continued growth of sales of Combilift products.”

The new model is very cost effective according to the Combilift Managing Director. “As a customer focused company Combilift strives to provide our dealers and customers with machines that not only do the job but also save them money. By opting for the electric model customers no longer need to allocate space for fuel storage.”

Ongoing maintenance and service requirements were taken into consideration in the design of the new forklift.

“The components used in the design and manufacture of this new forklift are tried and tested in our existing product range,” says Mr McVicar. “Ease of access to all components allows for greater serviceability and also allows all maintenance checks to be completed quickly, without any inconvenience for the end user. The launch of this forklift is part of Combilift’s continued commitment to meeting our customers requirements and is part of the growing range of products offered by Combilift.”

¢ Pictured

at the launch of the new Combi-CBE 4t in Italy: Martin McVicar (Managing Director Combilift) and Stefano Chimentin (Euro Assistance, Combilift dealer in Italy).

World first Combilift invented the world’s first internal combustion engine-powered, all-wheel drive multidirectional forklift in 1998 and has experienced exceptional growth ever since. Located in Monaghan, Ireland, Combilift was established by Martin McVicar and Robert Moffett, both highly qualified engineers with decades of experience between them.

Their expertise, knowledge of the market and practical experience led to the development of the Combilift - the ultimate long-load material handling solution.

The Irish-based company, is set to double its output in the next few years as its new

purpose-built factory nears completion.

46 million has been invested in the new 46,000m² factory on a 40 hectare site, which will be the largest single manufacturing unit under one roof in Ireland. Combilift, is boosting its research and development spending to €20 million. The new global headquarters and production facility will include a dedicated research and development building and adjoining administration offices.

The new factory will be fully operational in the spring of 2018. The expansion will also create around 200 new jobs, mainly for skilled technicians and design engineers.

Combilift and the timber industry Continued from page 19 significant capital expenditure as it eliminates the need to purchase both an indoor and outdoor forklift.

Increased Productivity and Less Product Damage Combilift units are the premier all in one machine; they eliminate unnecessary double handling of loads increasing productivity.

The multi-directional travel ability allows for the unit to manoeuvre easily through doorways and areas that are significantly narrower than the load it is carrying. This results in less product damage and safer handling.

It can also further reduce capital expenditure as doors and storage spaces do not need to be modified for a standard forklift to fit through.

Operator and Maintenance Friendly 20

All units are engineered for optimum user comfort and safety.

Standard features such as suspension seats and high visibility cabs ensure maximum driver comfort and safety including pedestrians and other machinery operating in shared areas.

Easy access to all major components makes the Combilift range very maintenance friendly.

“A further development of great relevance to the timber sector is Combilift’s new 4-wheeled, two directional sideloader, which is ideal for operations that require reliable, robust and fast operation when moving timber across extensive sites. Overheating during prolonged operation is a common problem with many sideloaders but Combilift has counteracted any risk of this by incorporating a single Bosch Rexroth variable piston hydrostatic drive motor coupled with a rugged and proven JCB

differential axle as used on the JCB 3CX backhoe model. The new design features a fully glazed front cab panel and the engine is situated in a low level compartment underneath the platform, both of which contribute to excellent visibility. With the Australian arm of the business (Combilift Australia) experiencing the biggest growth phase in its history the future is very bright for the well-respected market leading brand.” -- Australasian Timber, September 2014 issue “We have come a long way since the humble beginnings of the trusty C4000 with a machine available in the range to suit almost every application.

“With new models being released and the current product line being constantly updated the Combilift range covers more and more of our customer’s materials handling needs.”

-- Chris Walker, Combilift’s General Manager in Australia

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER

NOVEMBER 2017

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SPECIAL BUSINESS PROFILE

Reputation for high quality timber furniture restoration Support service offers meaningful, suitable and enjoyable occupational and skill development options

I

t’s taken almost four decades but a unique Toowoomba business continues to go from strength to strength. In fact, its success has meant the need for new and bigger premises.

What started as a small enterprise offering specialised training for people with a disability, has gained a reputation as a centre of excellence in timber furniture restoration work, among any other facets.

KBH Enterprises was originally formed out of a partnership between Karakan and the Baillie Henderson Hospital formed in the 1980s. Initially, woodworking, craft and even glass bottle recycling was offered within the Occupational Therapy unit of the Baillie Henderson hospital to provide people with disabilities and/or mental illness the opportunity to develop new skills and also prepare for employment post-discharge.

Karakan was a local service provider in the region and joined with the Occupational Therapy unit to ensure that the services were maintained and developed to provide meaningful, suitable and enjoyable occupational and skill development options.

In the late 1980s the service was moved to ‘Bedford Street’ which was slightly removed from the general hospital grounds and allowed for the supported employees to work within KBH Enterprises as both inpatients and outpatients from the local community.

In 1994, Karakan was given complete control of KBH Enterprises as the business moved completely from the hospital grounds and into a purposebuilt Timber Workshop on 11 Grange Street, Toowoomba.

From 1994 – 2015 KBH Enterprises was funded by FaCSIA (Department of Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs) to operate as an Australian Disability Enterprise (ADE) providing Supported Employment opportunities for people with disabilities and/or mental illness.

“Throughout this time we were funded to support a maximum of 21 Supported Employees within our Timber Manufacturing and Furniture Restoration Workshop,” General Manager Paul Booker explained.

Steady workforce

¢ Members

¢ O fficial

ceremony with a difference -- local State MP David Janetzki (a strong supporter of KBH) does the honours “Cutting the Ribbon”.

“Apart from our Supported Employees we generally maintained the workshop with a Program Manager, a Workshop Foreman with Furniture Restoration skills and a trade qualified Cabinet Maker to take on the more technical aspects of restoration as well as making custom timber pieces.

“We maintained a steady workforce and built a strong customer base throughout Toowoomba and the Darling Downs region with many repeat customers due to the high quality restoration and manufacturing work that was completed by our supported employees.

“By 2013 – 2015, although we had maintained a loyal workforce and a strong customer base our momentum had slowed and our growth was stunted with just 15-16 supported employees in our workforce,” he said.

In late 2015 there was a push to direct significant resources to KBH Enterprises to tap into the potential that could be seen within the enterprise but had simply dwindled over time. By early 2016 there was a big push from within which led to

of the KBH team after received a $10,000 cheque from the Westpac Foundation.

22

a significant time of change within every aspect of the KBH business including a significant restructure and review of how the organisation would survive and flourish into the future. A new Business Manager was brought into the fold and significant financial and human resources were invested in developing a plan for the future of KBH Enterprises. “The potential for the organisation was quickly rediscovered and in June 2016 we posted record monthly revenue of just over $28,000; pretty impressive considering the recent average was around $12,000 per month,” said Paul.

“Over that 18 month period we were able to increase sales, improve production and, most importantly, increase our supported workforce back up to our maximum of 21 supported employees. During this period we also developed significant partnerships with local high schools and the Clifford Park Special Education School in order to create pathways for young people with disabilities into our supported workforce; something that was vitally important with an ageing team of supported employees.

¢ The

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER

Funding “KBH was also attracting funding from numerous philanthropic bodies to develop new programs, products and services and we were able to contract Timber Survey Peg production to the billion dollar Toowoomba Second Range Crossing,” said Paul.

With the significant development over the past two years and the introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) KBH now employs over 30 supported employees.

“This growth of our workforce and increased sales and service has required a move into a new, bigger building that will allow us to provide more services locally and employ up to 50 supported employees into the future.”

The Grand Opening of this building was held on 14 of September to celebrate Disability Action Week.

“In order to successfully complete the move we needed to shut down production for a few weeks, move all of our machinery and products, install a new dust extraction system and move our spray booth,” he said.

“Not only is our new workshop around 50%, larger it also includes a retail shop

KBH vehicle.

NOVEMBER 2017

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SPECIAL BUSINESS PROFILE and larger office space for the individual support services that we now also offer to people with disabilities in the local community. We have also increased our team to include five full time roles including a Regional Manager, Support Coordinator, Workshop Supervisor, Timber All-Rounder and a Furniture / Timber Finisher in addition to a great team of volunteers that also support all that we do at KBH Enterprises.”

Despite its obvious success in providing training and help for those in need, KBH is definitely not resting on its laurels.

Future plans “ We will continue to build on our local reputation for high quality, timber furniture restoration as this represents around 80% of our current business, and we will also continue our growth providing survey pegs and garden stakes locally and throughout South East Queensland,” said Paul However, he was quick to add ... “we are always looking for new opportunities”.

A few of these are: • - Timber Fire Logs. “We recently purchased a machine (with grant funding) that condenses timber waste including sawdust and shavings and compresses this waste into high density logs that burn longer and

¢ Early

¢ Rolltop

¢ Rolltop

desk restoration ... before.

hotter than traditional firewood”.

• - Range of Hand Made Timber Products. “With the development of the retail space in our new building and an online store (soon to be developed) we are now looking to design, develop and release a range of replicable timber products. These products will be sold as Corporate Gifts, Wedding Gifts, Homewares and Outdoor Games. We are working closely with a local University as they develop market research around which products will be most viable in the future”.

• - Garden Maintenance & Lawn

desk restoration ... after.

Mowing Enterprise. “Not everyone enjoys woodworking and timber restoration so we are also commencing a Garden Maintenance and Lawn Mowing enterprise that will support people with disabilities and/or mental illness with supported employment in the Toowoomba community. We were given around $20,000 of funding to start this enterprise as well as the donation of a vehicle from Toowoomba Mahindra and sign writing by Signs On Time”.

• - Tiny House Project . “With support from the Westpac Foundation we are building a prototype ‘Tiny House on

times at KBH.

Wheels’ that will offer a potential solution to housing affordability for people with disabilities and/ or mental illness and will also serve as a potential ‘product’ for KBH Enterprise into the future as more people join the ‘Tiny House Movement’ throughout Australia”.

When Paul was asked about the long term future of the enterprise he admitted that while it was difficult to identify exactly where it would be in 5-10 years he firmly believed the enterprise would be in the same building with a significantly larger supported workforce and a number of other ‘external’ social enterprises so that the timber workshop isn’t over crowded.

“I believe that we have a model that is highly successful and teaches our supported employees some great skills while also providing them with the intrinsic value that comes with being employed and part of a team that is turning out beautiful restorations and high quality timber products.

“We believe that developing a range of replicable, high quality and indemand timber products should allow us to continually grow our organisation while still ensuring that we can provide valuable, satisfying employment opportunities for our supported employees.

“With the last 2 years in mind – there are very few opportunities that we won’t ‘give a try’ and fortunately we have a great team of supported employees who are ready and willing for the challenge,” he said.

Who knows, there may be some retired, skilled woodworkers in the local area who could take on volunteer roles, and greater working partnerships can be forged with mills, timber producers or others interested in supporting what is done at KBH.

Essential reading for timber and building industry professionals NOW AVAILABLE AS AN APP

Search the app store for North East Media or visit atmdigitaledition.com.au 630 Regency Road, Broadview, South Australia 5083

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23

TAXATION

TAX TIPS: contractor & project-based work The most important thing to remember when it comes to work-related vehicle and travel expenses is that you must keep records, making everything easier come tax time.

F

or many Australians, navigating the tax system can be quite overwhelming (especially for those engaging in project-based contracted work). To help take the stress out of their tax returns and maximise your return, H&R Block Director of Tax Communications, Mark Chapman, has provided some expert advice.

Contractor or employee?

It’s common in certain trades for people to be taken on as independent contractors rather than employees.

Deciding whether a person is a contractor or an employee can be a minefield, both for the individual and for the business taking them on. Getting it wrong can have a big impact, with consequences both for you and the business that has engaged your services. ●● A contractor (or consultants as they are sometimes called) is a self-employed person engaged for a specific task, at an agreed price, with a specific goal in mind, often over a set period of time. They set their own hours of work and take care of their own tax obligations. Contractors are paid a fee for completing an assignment. They don’t receive a salary or wage and need to pay their own tax from their gross earnings, whilst also making their own superannuation contributions. ●● By comparison, an employee has tax deducted at source from their salary and receives compulsory superannuation payments from their employer.

Vehicle and travel expenses

must keep records, making everything easier come tax time. If you use your car for work you are entitled to claim the work related travel expenses that relate to the business costs of using your car to do your job.

Travelling to and from work on a daily basis cannot be claimed as this is considered as private travel, even if: you do minor tasks on the way to work, such as picking up mail; you travel back to work for a security call out or parent teacher interviews; you work overtime and no public transport is available to use to get you home. Methods you can use to claim car expenses include: ●● Cents per kilometre: ○○ Your claim is based on a set rate for each business kilometre you travel. Under this method you are eligible to claim up to a maximum of 5,000 kilometres per year, per vehicle. If you travel in excess of 5,000 kilometres this method of claim is not appropriate to you. You will need to use the alternate method of a logbook to claim. ○○ The claim value is calculated by multiplying the total business kilometres travelled (limited to 5,000 per vehicle) by the standard rate of 66 cents per kilometre. This figure takes into account all the vehicle running expenses (including depreciation). ○○ You do not need written evidence, however you need to be able to demonstrate that you have covered the kilometres claimed. A diary of work-related journeys (including the kilometres travelled) will suffice. ●● Logbook: ○○ Your claim is based on the business use percentage of each car expense. This is determined by a log book that must have been kept for a minimum 12 week period, and must be updated every 5 years. Through your logbook you can claim all expenses that relate to the operation of the car, at your percentage of business use. ○○ The logbook must record all business journeys made in the car over the 12 week period that it records, detailing; □□ when the log book period begins and ends □□ the car’s odometer readings at the start and end of the period □□ the total kilometres travelled □□ the business percentage for the logbook period □□ For each journey in the logbook, you must record: □□ start and finishing times of the journey □□ odometer readings at the start and end of the journey □□ kilometres travelled □□ reasons for the journey □□ if you make two or more journeys in a row on the same day, you can record them as a single journey. □□ You will need to keep all receipts throughout the year to justify your claim, such as insurance, servicing and repairs.

Petrol can be estimated using the start and end odometer readings for the year, indicating the total kilometres travelled. □□ Depreciation is calculated as 25% of the written down value of the car (using the Diminishing Value method).

The most important thing to remember when it comes to work-related vehicle and travel expenses is that you

You can claim the cost of work-related car expenses if they are incurred whilst performing your job as an employee, such as: ○○ Carrying tools or equipment required to complete your job ○○ Travelling from your home to an alternative workspace (such as a client/supplier’s office), and then back to your own workplace or home at the end of the day

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AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER

NOVEMBER 2017

○○ Travelling between two separate workplaces where you are employed ○○ Travelling to conferences, meetings or other events as required by your employer ○○ Delivering or picking up items/packages related to your job, and as required by your employer

Deductions for work clothing

When it comes to what you wear to work, there are some clothes-related deductions you can claim – the cost of buying and cleaning occupation-specific clothing such as:

○○ protective and unique clothing (i.e. not everyday wear) ○○ clothing that easily identifies your occupation, like checked chef trousers ○○ distinctive uniforms ○○ clothing and footwear that you wear to protect yourself from the risk of illness or injury posed by your job or the environment in which you do your job. To be considered protective, the items must provide a sufficient degree of protection against that risk, and might include: □□ fire-resistant and sun-protection clothing (including sunglasses) □□ hi-vis vests □□ non-slip nurse’s shoes □□ rubber boots for concreters □□ steel-capped boots, gloves, overalls, and heavy-duty shirts and trousers □□ overalls, smocks and aprons you wear to avoid damage or soiling to your ordinary clothes whilst at work.

Claiming the cost of work uniforms:

●● Compulsory work uniforms ○○ A uniform identifies you as an employee of an organisation. The uniform must be compulsory to wear while you’re at work with a strictly enforced policy ensuring its enforcement. If this is the circumstance surrounding your uniform, the cost is deductible. ○○ Where your shoes, socks and stockings are an essential part of a distinctive compulsory uniform, you may be able to claim a deduction.

Their colour, style and type must be specified in your employer’s uniform policy as is sometimes the case with air stewardesses and nurses. It might be possible to claim for a single item of distinctive clothing, such as a jumper if it’s compulsory to wear to work.

●● Non-compulsory work uniforms ○○ In some instances, you can claim for a noncompulsory uniform, given that it’s unique www.timberbiz.com.au

TAXATION when the course you undertake leads to a formal typical four-week period from some point in the tax qualification and has a sufficient connection to your year. current employment and: If you have a phone plan where you receive an ○○ maintains or improves the specific skills itemised bill, you need to determine your percentage or knowledge you require in your current of work use over that 4-week period. You can then employment, or apply that to the full year. ○○ results in, or is likely to result in, an increase in your income from your current employment. Professional associations, magazine subscriptions and trade union fees

You can’t claim a deduction for self-education expenses for a course that does not have a sufficient connection to your current employment even though AUGUST 2017 it: Choose Choose

the the ○○ might be generally related to it, or Original Original ○○ enables you to get new employment.

PROCESSING • PRODUCTS • DESIGN • SUPPLIERS You can claim the following expenses in relation Incorporating Australian and New Zealand Timberman – Established 1977. to your self-education:

○○ accommodation and meals (if you are away from home overnight) ○○ computer consumables (such as paper or ink) ○○ course or tuition fees ○○ decline in value for depreciating assets such as computers or laptops (cost exceeds $300) ○○ purchase of equipment or technical instruments costing $300 or less ○○ equipment repairs ○○ fares (bus/plane/train, etc.) ○○ home office running costs (for any home study) such as heat, light, etc. ○○ interest on any money borrowed to fund the As a part of your profession, you may be a member course of an association – the good news is, you can claim ○○ internet usage your subscriptions. If you’re part of a trade union, ○○ parking fees your fees are also deductible. ○○ phone calls Magazines can make a dent in your return, as can ○○ postage subscriptions to mags associated with your line of ○○ stationery work. If you’re an investor, financial publications and ○○ student union fees research services are claimable. ○○ student services and amenities fees ○○ textbooks Tools & equipment ○○ trade, professional, or academic journals ○○ travel to-and-from the place where the course takes place (only for work-related claims)

You can’t claim:

○○ repayments of Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) loans (although the fees paid by some HELP loans are) ○○ Student Financial Supplement Scheme (SFSS) repayments ○○ home office occupancy expenses (such as mortgage interest or rent) ○○ meals where not sleeping away from home www.hewsaw.com

¢ Mark

Chapman, H+R Block Director Tax Communications

and distinctive to your organisation. Clothing is considered unique if it’s been designed and made solely for your employer. Distinctive clothing must have your employer’s logo permanently attached and not be available for public purchase. ○○ You can’t claim the cost of purchasing or cleaning a plain, logo-free uniform, such as generic white shirts or black trousers that wait staff wear. Non-compulsory work uniforms are usually required to have a design registered with AusIndustry in order to be tax deductible.

Shoes, socks and stockings aren’t considered part of a non-compulsory work uniform and neither is a single item such as a jumper.

It’s possible to claim the costs of washing, drying, ironing and dry-cleaning eligible work clothes.

Written evidence for your laundry expenses, such as diary entries and receipts must be kept if both the amount of your claim is greater than $150, and your total claim for work-related expenses exceeds $300.

This doesn’t include car, meal allowance, award transport payments and travel allowance expenses.

www.hewsaw.com

Mobile phone use

Deductions for courses and training

You can claim a deduction for some or all of the cost for tools and equipment if you require it for work purposes. If the work is used for both work and private expenses you need to divide what you can claim. The cost of the asset will affect the type of deduction you can claim: ○○ items that cost $300 or less and don’t form part of a set you can claim an immediate deduction ○○ items that cost over then $300 or form part of a set, you can claim a deduction for their decline in value. You can also claim the cost of repairing and insuring tools and equipment if need be.

Most of us want to better ourselves at work and a large part of doing that is equipping yourself with the skills you need to advance your career. The good news is that you can often do that, and claim a tax break on the costs you incurred at the same time.

Self-education expenses are tax deductible

If you use your own phone for work purposes, you can claim a deduction if you paid for these costs and have records to support your claims. If you use your phone for both work and private use, you will need to work out the percentage that reasonably relates to your work use. You can’t double-dip and claim for phone expenses that have been reimbursed by your employer.

To work out your deduction, you need to choose a

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AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER

NOVEMBER 2017

In 1971, H&R Block opened its first four offices in Australia, in Sydney and Melbourne. The next year, it opened offices in all capital cities, and has been growing strongly ever since. Today, H&R Block Australia prepares almost eight hundred thousand returns annually, making it Australia’s leading tax preparation firm.

25

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

Thinking outside the square pays dividends

T

hinking outside the square is almost the “norm” for Victorianbased MPB Engineering. When there’s a need for a specialist piece of machinery to (a) ease the workload or (b) boost production, then Aaron Bottomley and the crew at MPB are at the forefront.

Not that long ago, a very large timber manufacturer (who wishes to remain anonymous) was after a system that would quicken their laminating process ... a job they had been doing manually and needed 15 workers to complete.

“They came to us initially and we put forward a proposal and the way we have done it nobody has done it like this before,” Aaron explained.

“Most presses are like a rotary press but they can be a bit hard to load and unload plus you’ve got the issue of glue dripping back down onto the boards below or onto the machine itself.

“So, we set ours out laying flat!

“It takes a little more room but it meant loading and unloading was very, very simple.

“They came to us and we put forward a proposal about 18 months ago and in that time they were researching worldwide for any other alternatives, but none of them stacked up against our solution,” he added.

“They came back to us and wanted to proceed. We drew it up and did the costings analysis on the design then did some trials and everything was good so we pressed ahead and built it for them.

“It took about 12 months ... the whole process was longer than that, but the actual build time was about 12 months, and then installation was a couple of weeks.”

The fully automatic laminated press puts the pre-glued boards in one end, clamps the boards up, which remain in the press for 12 minutes (enough time for the glue to cure), then the vacuum lifter unloads it through a trimsaw

¢ On

26

¢ MPB

Engineering’s Ligna stand.

where it’s cut it to length. It can either cut it into one piece or into three pieces.

Then the vacuum lifter is again used to pick it off the trim saw and automatically stack it.

The workforce (on this specific task) of 15 went down to four plus production has increased.

The automatic laminating system more than proved itself, so Aaron came up with the idea to make a 3D model of the unit and display it at this year’s Ligna.

“It was printed in different sections (about 10), then painted and assembled.

We put it in a perspex box for the display,” said Aaron. The model is about 300 wide by 1,000 long and about 200 high “There was a good steady stream of people coming through with quite reasonable representation from Australia.

“It’s a very specific unit but there were some who showed interest,” he said.

With the laminator a success, MPB is currently working on a big moulding line with vacuum lifter, moulder infeed, moulder outfeed stacker.

“One pack goes in and one pack comes out. No one touches it. It’s fully machined.” he said That unit is due to be commissioned early 2018 in Victoria.

show for all to see at Ligna.

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER

NOVEMBER 2017

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d Horizontal Band Res a e h n i d Horizontal Band R MPBENGINEERING.COM.AU w a WOODWORKING EQUIPMENT t in heHP-66 EQUIPMENT tw WOODWORKING HP-66 d Twin head Horizontal Band Resaw a e Horizontal d Twin head Horizontal Band Resaw a Band Resaw heHP-66 Horizontal HP-66 MPBENGINEERING.COM.AU

Two head saw configuratio Smart solutions for smart timber people

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Two head saw configuration Variable feed speed by Two head saw Digital controllers• allow configuration. motor drive. accurate saw wheel positioning.

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belt isfeed driven speed WE Adjustable GUARANTEE QUALITY INNOVATION wheel motors drive the Largesaw horsepower feed&speed by electric • Variable blades allowing for heavy byflexibility a highand performance allows toinverter. saw motor Seimens saw wheel (03) 9702 7933 duty cutting. hydraulic motor.

ENGIN hard and soft wood. motors drive the blades speed WE Adjustable GUARANTEEfeed QUALITY & INNOVATION heavy duty I N E E R I N G . C O allowing M . ALarge U forhorsepower allows flexibility to saw Seimens saw wheel cutting.

(03) 9702 7933 hard and soft wood. motors drive the blades The conveyor belt is driven by The conveyor high performance hydraulic E N G I N E E R I N Gamotor.Adjustable . C Oisallowing M . feed A Uspeedfor heavy duty belt driven allows flexibility to saw hard cutting. by a high performance 100% Australian Owned and Operated and soft wood The conveyor belt is driven by The conveyor hydraulic motor.

ENGINEERING a high performance hydraulic OR WHY NOT COME TO THE SHOW ROOM FOR belt isfeed driven Adjustable speed motor.Adjustable feed speed horsepower flexibility to saw hard FULL DEMONSTRATION by a high performance allowsallows flexibility to saw 100% Australian Owned and Operated ns saw wheel and soft wood

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MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

Sustainability-driven saw line Tropik Wood increases recovery to support building boom

A

pproximately 2500 Fijians, including the country’s Prime Minister, celebrated the startup of a new Söderhamn Eriksson/ USNR sawline at the Tropik Wood’s Drasa mill in Lautoka, Fiji. The new equipment replaces an old sawline and almost doubles the mill’s timber recovery.

Founded in 1987, Tropik Wood Industries Limited (Tropik) is the largest producer of timber products in the country. Processing Caribbean pine, the 170-employee company produces more than 15 product types, both treated and untreated, ranging from profiled timber, construction material, and posts and poles for domestic customers, to wood chips for export markets. Waste material feeds a biomass power generating plant.

is a heavy duty high-speed debarker that accommodates all log sizes, and is particularly suited for logs up to 795 mm in diameter. It offers reliability, minimal service requirements, and ultra-low operating costs. Triangular feed works and carbide tipped debarking tools actuated by compressed air are important features to achieve first class debarking results.

tools. The infeed offers side shift capability of ±30 mm and follows the path defined by the sawline optimizer to achieve accurate opening faces on both sides. Spiked rolls firmly secure and feed the logs into the chipper canter unit.

The Chipper Canter with CombiSpiral discs was chosen because it produces first class pulp chips, and

The process: Debarking Caribbean pine logs enter the sawmill unsorted leading with the small end. Logs range from 15 - 50 cm diameter in lengths of 3 - 6.1 metres.

Logs are scanned and optimized, with 2.8 - 3 m gaps at the infeed. Processing logs with small ends first provides advantages in more accurate infeed alignment and for edging accuracy.

Logs enter the debarking line at consistent intervals. The Cambio 800

¢ Cambio

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The process: Edging The Catech 400 edger line includes an S-shaped unscrambler, transverse scanner with conveyor, edger infeed and 3-saw edger, edgings separator, and board outfeed. The edger line offers high speeds and top recovery with optimized wane control, and a split saw for processing wide boards.

The install

Project goals The mill was using equipment purchased in 1987 that focused on volume rather than recovery.

This did not match the company’s and the government’s goals for optimizing the use of the island’s natural resources.

Four years ago, Tropik decided that major capital upgrades to their sawmill line were needed. “The old mill experienced long downtimes and very poor recovery,” said Vimlesh Kumar, Tropik Wood’s Project Manager. “The low average recovery of 27% meant that we were wasting our valuable saw logs, which take 25 years or more to mature for timber.”

Tropik considered several alternatives including buying refurbished machinery from Canada or New Zealand, but opted for new, top-of-the-line equipment for greater certainty of productivity increases over the next 15 years.

on the outer shafts. Side and center boards are sent to the green chain. Side boards are manually separated and sent to the optimized edger.

¢ A flitch

is fed into the Catech edger machine.

Tropik Wood paired the Cambio 800 with the CIM Debarker Infeed.

This infeed’s auto-centring function feeds logs with no gaps, maximizing debarking line productivity. The CamTrail debarker outfeed prevents logs from wobbling or rotating during the process. Once debarked, logs pass through a metal detector, to a log kicker, elevator, and singulator, then on to the sawline scan conveyor.

The process: Chipping, canting Once scanned, a 3D data model is produced and the optimized saw pattern provides log and cant breakdown solutions. Log rotation is achieved with the 750E rotary log turner controlled from the PLC and actuated with an electric servo motor.

Next, the LogPos infeed positions the log with 4 pairs of vertical side rollers on a chain bed. The side rollers have spikes to hold the log’s rotated position securely while feeding into the cutting

800 debarker with CIM 750 Infeed.

boards with smooth sawn faces and proven dimensional accuracy. With a wide variety of accessories, it can be customized for log or cant breakdown, straight or sweep sawing and for production speeds up to 150 m/min.

The process: Sawing The quad bandsaw maximizes production and performance with thin kerf saws. It is designed for high product accuracy at feed speeds up to 120 m/min. Two to four sideboards are separated at the board separator, and dropped onto the edger conveyor.

The cant is turned 90 degrees and conveyed to the Cant Feeder 435 which positions it in front of the second chipper canter; it is centered, side shifted and skewed for the most accurate curve sawing following the cant’s natural shape.

The curve sawn cant enters the single arbor circular saw with 4 shifting saws and the option to mount additional saws

One of the challenges we faced was integrating new equipment into an old facility with in-place infeed and green chain. “The costs of moving everything would make the project commercially unviable,” said Faiz Khan, Fiji Pine’s Executive Chairman. “To increase our chance of success, we engaged the services of Skookum Technology, the process engineers (and Söderhamn Eriksson/USNR’s agent) out of New Zealand, to review our plans and ensure a smooth machine installation.”

“Another challenge was the isolation factor,” said Vimlesh. “It takes almost two months for shipments to reach Fiji from Sweden.” As if these challenges weren’t enough, a major cyclone hit the island in the middle of the project.

“Despite these factors, and the time zone difference between Fiji and Sweden, the project was implemented on time,” said Vimlesh.

Results The new mill has a capacity of 350m3/day, however, it is currently being run at a daily average of 180m3 to ensure sustainability of the island’s forests. As a result of the new equipment, timber recovery has increased significantly. The new line also offers greater flexibility and can handle larger diameter logs.

For Söderhamn Eriksson/USNR, this was a unique and challenging project. Lars Lindvall comments: “We knew this project was going to have significant challenges, but we were pleased to be able to outfit this operation with state-of-the-art equipment that will serve Tropik’s interests for many years to come.”

¢ Logs

are rotated with the 750E log turner as they enter the LogPos positioning infeed for secure feeding into the cutting tools.

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER

NOVEMBER 2017

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NEWS

New dowel laminated timber product to be used for structural applications

¢ Dowel

laminated timber (DLT) is made entirely from softwood and hardwood with no metal, glue or plastic. DLT panels have all the wood fibre going in a single direction and use dowelling patterns instead of nails or layers of glue. Photo: StructureCraft

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TRUCTURECRAFT Builders Corporation is building a 50,000-squarefoot, all-wood facility in Abbotsford, B.C. to manufacture dowel laminated timber (DLT).

DLT is made entirely from softwood and hardwood with no metal, glue or plastic.

“We expect the plant to be completed by the end of summer 2017 and the first DLT to be available for sale in January 2018,” said Lucas Epp, StructureCraft’s head of engineering.

He said his company will be the first manufacturer of DLT in North America.

DLT panels have all the wood fibre going in a single direction and use dowelling patterns instead of nails or layers of glue.

The panels can be used for floor, wall and roof structures.

Epp said DLT is less expensive than glued products to manufacture. The bright idea to use hardwood dowels to connect softwood boards was conceived in Switzerland in the 1990s.

Today, there are about 20 DLT manufacturers in Europe, most of them in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

DLT may be the most recent mass timber product, but it joins many others already on the market.

Some of them are nail laminated timber (NLT), cross laminated timber (CLT), glue laminated timber (GLT), laminated veneer lumber and laminated strand lumber.

“Architects and structural engineers are becoming more familiar with the properties of structural engineered wood,” said Jana Foit, senior associate at Perkins+Will Architecture in Vancouver.

Engineered wood has advantages over steel and concrete as a structural material, said Foit.

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER

“For example, it is faster to erect,” she said. “On the other hand, engineered wood is vulnerable to wet weather and construction needs to be scheduled to mitigate the effects of moisture.”

Although mass timber has been used in Europe for decades, Canada is catching up quickly, said Duane Palibroda, managing principal of Vancouver structural engineers Fast + Epp. “We have been working with mass timber on projects in the Lower Mainland for several years,” Palibroda said.

Examples of Fast + Epp projects that use engineered wood include the Brentwood Skytrain Station in Burnaby; Brighouse Elementary School in Richmond; the Mountain Equipment Co-op head office in Vancouver; and the Whistler Public Library.

In addition to Fast + Epp, and thanks in part to the B.C. Government’s Wood First Initiative, other companies in the construction industry are finding structural applications for engineered wood, said Mark Porter of Associated Engineering in Burnaby.

“Engineered wood is more stable than regular sawed lumber, stronger and more predictable in its behaviour,” he said. “One of the most recent engineered wood products to be used in Western Canada is CLT.” Much ink has been spilled recently on the use of CLT in the 18-storey Brock Commons student residence at the University of BC. “Brock Commons is the first mass timber tower in North America,” said Karla Fraser, senior project manager at Urban One Builders CM Inc., the project’s construction manager. “And it is the first time we have used CLT as a structural floor plate as part of a wood tower. But it will not be

NOVEMBER 2017

the last time we use this type of building material.”

Fraser said CLT is an easier building material to manage throughout the construction of a project.

“Due to its cross lamination it is not susceptible to curling when it gets wet,” Fraser said. “It is unlike NLT or GLT, which tends to curl the entire member when exposed to rain.”

Moisture on CLT, on the other hand, could be managed with fans and by removing the water from the surface of the wood.

“Within a few hours of moving the water off the wood, it came back to kiln-dry moisture readings,” Fraser said.

Projects such as Brock Commons are also noteworthy because the use of engineered wood has been leading to increased co-operation between structural engineers and building science engineers.

“Engineered wood buildings are built quickly and some special weather protection is required during construction,” said Leslie Peer, principal of engineers Read Jones Christoffersen Ltd. “This aspect of engineered wood construction is driven by computer-aided pre-manufacturing of building elements, which is a big change in the construction industry and is moving ahead rapidly in the wood sector.”

Building elements are manufactured precisely off-site and erected by small crews on site.

“Since wood is affected onsite by moisture absorption more than steel or concrete is, it needs to be protected during construction,” said Peer. “That is behind the need for temporary protection and more rapid installation of the building facade and roof.”

www.timberbiz.com.au

NEWS

Tall Timber Construction – a paradigm shift in building development Mid-Rise advisory team helping to pave way to success

O

ne hundred and twenty-five Victorian Building professionals met in Melbourne for a half-day WoodSolutions Symposium focusing on Tall Timber Construction. Held at the at the beautiful Library at the Dock, the audience was made up of personally invited developers, builders, architects, engineers and timber supply chain representatives who are actively involved in investigating opportunities, or currently delivering mid-rise and tall timber projects The international keynote speaker at the Symposium was Karla Fraser, from Urban One Builders, based out of Vancouver, in Canada, who was the Senior Project Manager, on the Brock Commons Tall-wood project which was recently completed at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver. At 18- stories in height, Brock Commons is currently the tallest timber apartment building in the world.

Following a brief welcome by Dr Alastair Woodard, the Victorian WoodSolutions Program Manager, Gerry Neylan, WoodSolutions Mid-rise Lead Program Development Manager, overviewed the new the industry WoodSolutions Mid-rise Advisory Program and introduced the Victorian team members. He presented the program activities and successes over the past 12 months, and discussed the process for developers, builders and other design team members to interact with, and utilise, the WS mid-rise team for assistance with any new mid-rise projects.

George Konstandakos, the new head of Lendlease’s DesignMake prefabrication operation, provided a very informative discussion on timber construction as a new business opportunity specifically from a developer/builder perspective.

He discussed the value proposition and key drivers, the benefits, challenges, and best market sector opportunities, and his thoughts on the increasing shift to offsite prefabrication. He illustrated these concepts using a number of Lendlease’s excellent timber projects as examples.

Dr David Bylund discussed the importance of design and planning in delivering a successful timber project, particularly the need for a ‘team approach’ and having all parties in the process fully informed and on-board: from the client, through the developer/ builder, the key design team members: architect, engineer, acoustic and fire consultants, building authority, project manager, builder, to the timber system supplier.

Paul Gardiner, from Gardiner Architects, provided a very practical and current discussion on the cost efficiencies of the construction of timber buildings compared to concrete illustrating his points using a 5-storey mixed use project in Thornbury in Melbourne that he is currently working on as a real-life case study example.

Following a brief networking afternoon tea break, Dr Woodard provided a presentation on the current lightweight timber framed, heavy timber post and beam and mass timber systems supply channels and how builders developers,

Wright (ASH), John Fitzgibbon (Clos), David Bylund (WoodSolutions).

¢ John

Armsby (Armsby Architects), George Konstandakos: (Lend Lease), Gerry Neylan (WoodSolutions), Sally Capp (Property Council of Australia), Karla Fraser (Urban One), Paul Gardiner (Gardiner Architects), David Bylund (WoodSolutions), Alastair Woodard (WoodSolutions).

architects and engineers, can access the timber products, prefabricated timber systems and the suppliers for each of the different timber system approaches available; a question that is regularly asked by building professionals.

Ms Fraser provided a very interesting and informative presentation on constructing and project managing the 18-storery Brock Commons Tall Timber project, covering the full gamut of the project from: logistic planning, the benefits of virtual modelling and pre-manufacturing building components to speed up the rate of the build, water management, fire protection during construction, reduction of waste, and the lessons learned while constructing this flagship timber building.

The final session of the Symposium was a very interactive panel discussion and audience questions session, moderated by Ms Sally Capp, the Victorian Executive Director of the Property Council of Australia and involving all the previous speakers. Ms Fraser discussed the work happening in

¢ Daniel

¢ John

¢ Nathan

¢ Craig

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AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER

Benbow (Vistek), Mark Stranan (Austen Maynard Architects), Robbie Svars (Vistek), Michael Jansen (Atelier Projects).

Armsby (Armsby Architects), Paolo Lavisci (WoodSolutions), Paul Gardiner (Gardiner Architects).

Kay and Rachel Prest (Tilling Timber).

NOVEMBER 2017

¢ Karla

this area in North America and provided some feedback and thoughts on the process and activities to see a successful take up of mid-rise timber buildings in Australia.

A wide range of excellent questions were received from the audience clearly illustrating the interest of these new timber systems by the broader building design community and their enthusiasm to undertake these types of constructions in the future.

Feedback from the attendees was excellent, and some solid new construction project leads were also established with attendee building design team members and the new Mid-rise WoodSolutions Advisory Team, which will now be followed up and which hopefully will lead to further new midrise timber buildings under construction in the very near future.

Further information can be obtained from Dr Alastair Woodard, woodard@ woodsolutions.com.au

Fraser (Urban One).

¢ Dr

Phil Alviano (Master Builders Association of Victoria), Sean Morley (Impresa House).

31

ASSOCIATIONS

Getting the skills to be major Dinner and awards player in the reno renaissance night success

By Colin Fitzpatrick Chief Executive Officer Timber & Building Materials Association (Aust.) Ltd The 2017 Timber Industry Dinner incorporating the national TABMA Awards was held on 6 October at Luna Park, Sydney.

With just on 300 guests, entertained by MC Eliot Goblet, the following awards were presented.

Best Frame & Truss Operation Langs Building Supplies – Qld Best Timber Merchant Gowan Lea Timbers – Qld Best Building Materials Centre NHS – NSW

H

ome renovations will become an increasingly important aspect of the residential building industry in the coming years.

According to a Housing Industry Association report, 2016 became the strongest year since the end of WWII for new home building commencements, however this trend may be set to decline over the next few years.

Victorian training institution, Builders Academy Australia, which was recently announced as a finalist for Victorian Small Training Provider of the Year, is delivering training to students resulting in the skills required for a range of Building and Construction roles including how to complete a high quality residential renovation.

Andrew Shea, CEO of Builders Academy, believes training for residential renovation is important for any young builder learning their trade.

“We’re excited to hear about the HIA’s prediction on home renovations,” he says, “Builders Academy is always reviewing the way it trains student to ensure that delivery reflects the trends of the industry and required future workforce skills.”

Renovations already account for around one third of the Australian residential building industry, and the HIA report

Wholesaler of the Year Tilling Timber – NSW

predicts this number to increase over the next few years.

By the end of this decade renovations could possibly represent 42% of all building industry activity. With the increase in construction of semidetached homes in between 1985 and 1995 it is predicted that these homes will soon become the target for refurbishment.

This, along with extraordinarily low interest rates and large home equity windfalls in Melbourne and Sydney, it is believed that the demand for renovations is set to steadily increase.

Mr Shea says that the increase in demand for renovations is exciting news for the Victorian construction industry and that Builders Academy looks forward to continuing delivering training that meets this industry demand.

“We’re always excited to provide training that we know aligns with current and future industry needs.

“Looking back on the awesome job you’ve done renovating a home is one of the most rewarding aspects of being in the construction industry.

“We here at Builders Academy are happy to train our students on the necessary skills of providing high quality home renovations.”

Trainee of the Year Ben Cousins - ITI South Australia Most Innovative Member Parkside Timber – Qld

Sales Representative of the Year Mike Hill – John Cook & Sons NSW Apprentice of the Year Nick Choy – Artarmon Joinery NSW Host Employer of the Year ITI Australia Member of the Year Woodhouse Timber Company Our congratulations go to each of the very worthy winners.

SUPPORTERS & SPONSORS

John & Sons JohnCook Cook & Sons

For information visit: www.tabma.com.au

New home sales lift in August – but still trending down

32

AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER

25,000

8,500 8,000

20,000

7,500 7,000

15,000

6,500

Source: ABS 8731.0 and HIA

PRIVATE NEW DWELLING SALES - AUSTRALIA (SEASONALLY ADJUSTED)

+9.1%

6,000

10,000

5,500 5,000

5,000

4,500 4,000

NOVEMBER 2017

Aug-17

Apr-17

Jun-17

Feb-17

Dec-16

Oct-16

Aug-16

Apr-16

Jun-16

Feb-16

Oct-15

HIA New Home Sales (LHS)

Dec-15

Aug-15

Apr-15

Jun-15

Feb-15

Dec-14

0

Oct-14

home-buyers returning to the new home market.

“Victoria has seen record numbers of new building approvals and new home sales are continuing to drive even higher. Strong population growth and employment growth, fortified with enhanced first home buyer incentives, is prolonging the boom in building activity.”

For the three months to August compared with the same period last year, house sales in Victoria are 15.7% higher and up by 9.2% in South Australia.

Over the same period, sales declined in Queensland (-7.3%), WA (-15.4%), NSW (-17.4%) and Queensland (-37.9%).

“The trend in new home sales continues to provide a strong leading indicator of the trend in residential building approval figures from the ABS as can be seen in the chart below,” Mr Reardon said.

Aug-14

New home sales increased by 9.1% in August month as a result of very strong results in Victoria and Western Australia, however, over the year sales have continued to slow according to HIA’s Principal Economist, Tim Reardon.

The HIA New Home Sales report - a monthly survey of the largest volume home builders in the five largest states – provides a leading indicator of building approvals and activity in the building industry.

“The jump in sales in July confirms our forecast of a slowdown in building activity through until 2018/19. The increase in sales in August offsets larger declines in sales in recent months, but it is not sufficient to reverse the decline in sales that is evident since early 2016.”

“Results in July and August have been affected by government interventions in NSW and Victoria which have seen first

ABS Seasonally Adjusted Approvals - Private Sector (RHS)

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ASSOCIATIONS

Veneers produced from ‘cooked’ wood Quality is the culmination of exacting process

By Peter Llewellyn Technical Representative, Timber Veneer Association of Australia

T

he timber industry has some practices that might that seem strange to outsiders, but perhaps none is stranger than the ‘cooking’ of timber flitches before they are sliced into veneers.

There are good reasons for this step in veneer production, which can last from one day to one week depending on the species of timber.

Some species such as sycamore and white beech are not cooked because of the need to maintain a light or white colouring. However, most veneers are sliced from cooked flitches because it gives the wood the necessary suppleness to ensure smooth slicing and thus perfect veneer quality.

The final colour of the veneer is influenced by the cooking time. For example, the colour of white beech is changed by cooking to an attractive pink or salmon-coloured hue.

Sometimes there are contaminants in the flitch such as grains of sand, or metal from an ingrown nail. Contaminants chip the cutting edge of the knife on the slicing machine, leaving scratch marks in the veneer. The production team must

be alert for such problems which may necessitate changing the knife.

Drying veneers also needs care.

Veneers that are too dry become brittle and no longer workable. On the other hand, veneers that are too moist can become mouldy, making them unusable.

Again, the experience of the production team ensures that a drying program is used that is appropriate for the particular timber species.

Veneer production is an exacting process since we are working with veneers 0.5 – 0.7mm thick that need careful handling.

However, veneer production enables the industry to process high quality logs in the most efficient way possible, producing many more square metres of decorative material than would be possible by sawing the same logs into solid boards.

Specifiers can view images of available veneers on the websites of members of the Timber Veneer Association of Australia (TVAA). Visit the TVAA website at timberveneer.asn.au, click on the ‘About Us’ tab, and select ‘Industry Members’ to find contact details.

¢ Wood

veneers combine with other natural materials.

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NOVEMBER 2017

33

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Workplace safety --- then and now!

Back then, most employers had “tool box” meetings periodically and believed this generally meant the boxes were being ticked regarding workplace safety.

Brian Beecroft Chief Executive Officer TTIA

J

ust for a moment, wind back the or the now familiar sight of high-vis clock 25 years, like in a time jackets or vests that these days are tunnel scenario. In my case, back seemingly on every individual in every then I had no children sending me an workplace across the country.

SMS for urgent cash to top up their I remember having countless running Opal card, or asking for a new iPhone battles with unions on the need for as their last one got mysteriously smoke-free workplaces after many water damaged. of my members It would still be were advised by quite a recent “An EU will allow insurers that a joyous memory cigarette butt found a company to of when my club, in a workplace the Parramatta suffering fire develop safety in Eels, won their last damage would Grand Final. I still null and void any their workplace had enough hair to insurance claim, as have a respectable well as endanger and avoid fringe that rightly anyone at the demanded a decent workplace. defending a application of I vividly recall shampoo, and in one calendar prosecution and I could still jog year becoming without a passersby aware that there the penalties that asking me if I was were more than okay and if maybe six fatalities in follow.”

I needed to sit the industry and down and rest. thinking that things OK, it’s not all about my middleneeded to change – that both employees aged woes. Instead, try recalling the and businesses needed to genuinely way our much-loved timber industry focus more on workplace safety. It’s an dealt with workplace health and safety industry we all love and yes, there are back then. Let’s be honest, the first definite inherent dangers, but regular issue that comes to mind is that WH&S fatalities are a horrible tragedy worth was not really a subject at the forefront preventing, both for the individual of businesses then, unlike industrial involved and their distraught families. relations, marketing or resource supply.

Back then, most employers had I remember meeting slightly quirky v“tool box” meetings periodically and old men who specialised in OHS and believed this generally meant the boxes wondering why they never worked in were being ticked regarding workplace industrial relations or even marketing, safety. Where safety documentation and marvelling at how they managed to existed, I can recall the layers of dust stay awake while talking about issues that were often gathered on such like repetitive strain injury without documentation. Sound familiar? falling into a deep sleep, never to I can remember on many occasions, awaken again. safety documentation once produced I recall that when I joined TTIA at and bought would never really the beginning of the 1990s we did not see the light of day or be properly even have a WH&S unit. That’s a far implemented. cry from today, when our WH&S unit Moving on, it’s a fact that is in constant demand nationally by the governments over time have ramped industry. up statutory fines and criminal Twenty-five years ago there was no prosecution, and this too has placed talk of safety management systems, no enormous pressure on employers to safe operating procedures for machines look at their workplace safety regimes. or duties, no risk assessments, While many may argue that the big workplace drug and alcohol testing stick is effective, a far more proactive

method of dealing with breaches and prosecutions has gained favour in the courts, as well as with business, in the form of enforceable undertakings.

An enforceable undertaking (EU) is an alternative to being prosecuted by the Crown under workplace health and safety legislation. If a company decides to enter into an EU with the government, the prosecution will be discontinued, but only after the EU is approved, finalised and officially signed by both parties.

EUs are in place for three years and cover safety with respect to the accident, industry and community.

Compliance with an EU is carefully monitored by government agencies around Australia. If there is a breach of an EU, the prosecution will be recommenced against the company and a company will effectively be back to square one, so companies need to ensure they fully comply with the commitments in their EU. An EU will allow a company to develop safety in their workplace and avoid defending a prosecution and the penalties that follow. The cost of implementing an EU is often said to be much higher than defending a prosecution and the final penalty for breach of legislation. In terms of managing a prosecution, a company

can plead guilty at the first court appearance and receive a deduction from the final penalty ordered by the court, although each matter needs to be assessed on its own merits in terms of how a prosecution is managed.

TTIA has been involved in managing a number EUs for members and I think it’s a credit to these employers that they are prepared to spend twice or more of what they may be prosecuted regarding a breach to not only improve their own safety culture but to also provide an educational tool for the industry so other workplaces can benefit from their safety learning curve. I think it’s pleasing that WH&S is now at the forefront of workplace planning and consideration. So, at the risk of being politically incorrect, I think the industry deserves considerable credit for responding to what was once a less than centre stage issue going back 20 years and beyond, to the point today where workplace safety in the forest products industry is world-best practice and a key component of running a successful business in our diverse industry What has all this taught me, apart from the fact that I need less shampoo than I once did? Sometimes it’s better to look forward than back!

SUPPORTERS & SPONSORS

For information visit: www.ttia.asn.au Timber NSW/TTIA Timber Industry Dinner A reminder to book your tickets for the joint Timber NSW/TTIA conference and annual dinner which will be held on 23 November at Alan Davidson Oval, Sydney Park Pavilion. The conference will run from 1 pm – 4.30 pm followed by pre dinner drinks at 6.30 pm and dinner at 7 pm.

Tickets are selling fast - please contact the TTIA office on (02) 9264 0011 or by email ttia@ttia.asn.au.

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AUSTRALASIAN TIMBER

NOVEMBER 2017

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Innovation, Strength and Dependability.

Innovation.

Koppers Performance Chemicals has dedicated research and development facilities around the world that combine to provide innovative treated timber solutions. Innovation extends to the most powerful treatment plant control system that can handle multiple treatment types and new generation multicomponent preservative systems.

Strength.

We don’t just provide quality timber preservation solutions, we back it with engineering knowledge and capability, highly trained and experienced customer representatives and market development services.

Dependability.

Koppers Performance Chemicals has its own production facilities in Australia and in New Zealand that ensure that products are delivered in time to service customers around Australia. Our state of the art production facilities and a company wide focus on safety aim to deliver quality products safely at all times. Our friendly staff are on-hand to assist.

For more information and to discuss your treatment plant needs, contact Nick Livanes on 0408660434 or visit www.kopperspc.com.au KoppersŽ is a registered trademarks of Koppers Inc. or its subsidiaries. Š 2017 Koppers Performance Chemicals Australia Pty Ltd.

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