Smarter Technologies to Improve our Industry
- 10-11 November 2026, Rotorua, New Zealand
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HarvestTECH News is a monthly update on news, research articles, videos and useful links for wood harvesting and transport operations throughout Australasia. HarvestTECH Events provides world class technology events and exhibitions to wood harvesting contractors, harvest planners, forest managers and wood transport operators.
HarvestTECH & Wood Transport Logistics 2026
Smarter Technologies to Improve our Industry
HarvestTECH & Wood Transport Logistics 2026
Latest News & Technologies
07 Sep 2026
From AI to heavy machinery: What’s on at HarvestTECH & Wood Transport Logistics 2026
Forestry operations are under pressure from all directions – rising costs, tighter margins, changing workforce requirements and growing demands for greater efficiency and safety. That makes the practical side of technology increasingly important. What is actually working in the forest? ...
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07 Sep 2026
Caterpillar is bringing to AI deployment what it learned from automating mining
Nearly every company that’s trying to deploy artificial intelligence runs into the same problem: it’s hard to integrate the tech into everyday operations. Industrial heavyweight Caterpillar has spent decades dealing with a version of that problem in the physical world, ...
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07 Sep 2026
Free program to help SMEs advance AI and digital tech ideas in Queensland
The free eight-week online program, delivered by Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, helps businesses turn early-stage ideas into actionable R&D plans while building connections with expert facilitators and researchers. Offered through the Queensland Government-funded Regional University Industry Collaboration (RUIC) program, ...
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07 Sep 2026
Tairawhiti – Productivity is bigger than the crew
Tony Hill of Hill Logging picked me up at 6:00am for a visit to his steep country winch-assist (SWY) operation east of Mangatu Forest. Many readers will know Tony through his role as NZ Logger Magazine’s “Iron Tester”. Tony comes ...
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07 Sep 2026
Next generation of Komatsu forestry machines
Komatsu Forest presents a new generation of forestry machines, where both harvesters and forwarders have been comprehensively updated to meet the evolving demands of modern forestry. The new range combines improved productivity with reduced environmental impact, focusing on efficiency, operator ...
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07 Sep 2026
Enforcement data reveals where forestry needs to lift its game
Strengthening organisational capability, planning, supervision and risk management remains one of the forestry sector’s biggest challenges, according to new enforcement data released by WorkSafe New Zealand. During the 2025/26 business year, WorkSafe conducted 526 assessments across the forestry industry. One ...
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07 Sep 2026
Learning Through the Storm: Report released
The Top of the South Wood Council, with support from Te Uru Rākau – New Zealand Forest Service, has recently released Learning Through the Storm, a report on the widespread windthrow caused by the severe storm events of 2025. On July ...
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11 Aug 2026
Testing New Zealand’s first heavy electric loader
A Volvo L120 Electric wheel loader is helping PermaPine test what sustainable equipment can really deliver in one of New Zealand’s most demanding timber processing environments. Set on a 100-acre site outside Taupō, PermaPine is New Zealand’s largest manufacturer of ...
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11 Aug 2026
New Canopy Class certification raises the bar for contractors
When Skipps Logging became one of the first contractors to achieve Safetree’s new Canopy Class certification recently, they celebrated the win with a special presentation in Cambridge. The certification, which Skipps helped pilot, is designed to recognise contractors who demonstrate ...
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11 Aug 2026
Forestry confirms new training partnership with Competenz
New Zealand’s forestry sector has confirmed it will align its workplace vocational training with the new Engineering and Manufacturing Private Training Establishment (PTE), operating under Competenz. The decision follows extensive consultation with employers, contractors and training providers, led by the ...
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11 Aug 2026
Recent spike in log truck & trailer rollovers
Recent industry discussions and safety incident data have highlighted a concerning increase in log truck and trailer rollover events across New Zealand. Industry leaders, Forest Owners, Transport Operators, and the Log Transport Safety Council (LTSC) have acknowledged that this trend requires ...
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11 Aug 2026
Driver fatigue: What half a billion kms has taught us
The launch of Transporting New Zealand’s Fatigue Management: Road Freight Update at their recent 60th Anniversary Conference provides an opportunity to reflect on how our understanding of driver fatigue is evolving. AutoSense was proud to support the report because it brings together ...
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11 Aug 2026
Excavator fleet at iron ore mine now fully electric
The first of Andrew Forrest’s giant iron ore mines in the Pilbara is now operating with an entirely electric fleet of huge excavators, as testing continues nearby on the first of its in-house 6 MW fast chargers, likely the biggest ...
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07 Jul 2026
HarvestTECH & Wood Transport Logistics 2026 programme released
The programme has now been released for HarvestTECH & Wood Transport Logistics 2026, bringing together two days of presentations focused on the latest developments in forest harvesting, wood transport and supply chain logistics. Running in Rotorua, New Zealand on 10–11 ...
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07 Jul 2026
Linfox rolls out 26 heavy-duty electric trucks
Australia’s biggest private logistics company is rolling out a fleet of 26 heavy-duty Volvo electric trucks across Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide on some of the country’s busiest urban freight routes. Linfox said it is putting the first of its battery-powered ...
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07 Jul 2026
Kesla introduces new F-Series forwarder crane range
Kesla has expanded its forestry equipment portfolio with the launch of a new F-Series range of forwarder cranes, designed for the most common forwarder size classes. The new family includes the 9F/FT, 10F/FT, 12F/FT and 14F/FT models and replaces a ...
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07 Jul 2026
NZ safety gains drive drop in forestry’s injury claims
Forestry’s injury claims have fallen by around 34 percent since 2018, reflecting sustained improvements in safety performance and injury prevention across the sector. ACC has highlighted the Forest Industry Safety Council (FISC) as a strong example of what can be ...
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07 Jul 2026
Ensuring safety in native timber harvesting
The Forest Harvesting Safety Project is setting new safety standards in Queensland’s state-owned native timber harvesting by aligning safety responsibilities and providing practical tools. The Forest Harvesting Safety Project is setting new safety standards and requirements for those undertaking selective harvesting ...
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07 Jul 2026
We’re targeting 35% electrification in 10 years – but 35% of what?
When Australia’s Chris Bowen and Turkey’s Murat Kurum unveiled their “35 by 35” flagship target at Bonn this month – raising electricity’s share of global Final Energy from around 20 per cent today to 35 per cent by 2035 – it was ...
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07 Jul 2026
Government backs major North Island freight hub
The Government has approved up to $22.4 million in funding to support the rail component of Te Utanganui – a major new freight hub in Palmerston North, Rail Minister Winston Peters and Regional Development Minister Shane Jones say. Te Utanganui ...
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07 Jul 2026
Empowering forestry and wood through tech
The Government is backing the New Zealand’s forestry sector’s innovation and sustainable productivity, announced from Agriculture Minister Todd McClay last month. “Greater land use flexibility results in prosperity through productivity, and new production methods and technologies are key to driving ...
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07 Jul 2026
Transport cost index – Unprecedented impact of fuel pricing
We recently released our Grant Thornton Transport Cost Index for the March quarter and that includes forecasting for the following quarter. The magnitude of the rise forecast is unprecedented in the Index’s history and demonstrates the downstream impact of the geopolitical ...
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07 Jul 2026
Simplify logging operations with forestry equipment technology
It’s true — there is no such thing as a routine job or an easy day for loggers. But at John Deere, we have the forestry equipment and technology to help you outrun expectations and succeed in the trees. John ...
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02 Jun 2026
World’s first in forest drone-assisted tree harvest
A major technological milestone has been achieved in timber harvesting with the successful completion of the world’s first drone-assisted tree harvest within an operational forest stand. AirForestry’s field test validated the system’s capabilities in a natural forest environment, proving its functionality ...
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02 Jun 2026
Call for Speakers: HarvestTECH & Wood Transport Logistics 2026
Do you have a new technology, operational case study, or innovation that could help shape the future of harvesting and wood transport across Australasia? Join industry leaders at HarvestTECH & Wood Transport Logistics 2026 and present to senior forestry, harvesting, ...
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02 Jun 2026
Empowering the next generation of NZ forestry innovators
The 2026 Youth Micro Innovation Challenge is calling on young people across New Zealand’s forestry sector to help shape the future of the industry – one practical idea at a time. Open to students, recent graduates, and early‑career forestry workers with ...
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02 Jun 2026
Australia at “tipping point” for switch to electric trucks as half its diesel fleet nears replacement
Australia is at a tipping point for electrifying transport as more than half of the country’s trucking fleet is due for replacement, and needs to act to avoid a repeat of the current fossil fuel crisis, a leading transport and ...
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02 Jun 2026
EV shift needs systems: Toll
Mandatory climate reporting requirements are changing how the heavy vehicle industry approaches decarbonisation with pressure building across entire supply chains to measure and reduce emissions. Speaking at TruckShowX in the Hunter Valley last month, Nanae Kii of Toll Group said the company’s ...
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02 Jun 2026
Sector Innovation & impact on show at Fieldays Forestry Hub
The Fieldays Forestry Hub returns to Fieldays in 2026 for the fifth consecutive year, highlighting the important role forestry and wood processing play in supporting New Zealand’s economy, environment, and regional communities. Each year, forest growers and sector organisations come ...
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02 Jun 2026
Diesel powertrains vs battery electric powertrains explained
Diesel powertrains and battery electric powertrains each offer distinct advantages depending on the application. Diesel excels in long-distance travel, durability and versatility across industries like trucking, agriculture and mining, while electric powertrains are best suited for urban stop-and-go driving and ...
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02 Jun 2026
King’s Birthday Honours 2026: Warwick Wilshier’s work on transforming log truck safety on NZ roads
Wilshier had been a log truck operator for more than four decades. The 65-year-old has been made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours for his service to the industry and his ...
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02 Jun 2026
Komatsu expands smart forestry tools with AI, drones, and precision mapping
Komatsu North America is expanding its Smart Forestry platform, combining machine learning, satellite positioning, and connected equipment to digitize forestry operations and improve productivity in remote environments. The system integrates onboard machine data, fleet-level monitoring, and mapping tools to give ...
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05 May 2026
Managing slash on steep hill country
Te Uru Rakau recently completed Harvesting Operations Handbook: Managing Slash on Steep Hill Country. This is an abbreviated version of the Slash Risk Management Handbook and is targeted more at contractors and forestry operational staff. FICA had some input into the ...
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05 May 2026
America’s largest landowner is using AI to digitise the forest
Weyerhaeuser is pursuing autonomous logging equipment and hopes to double its profits by 2030 independent of any increase in lumber prices. Autonomous skidders that drag felled trees around logging sites. A database detailing each tree in the forest. A screen ...
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05 May 2026
Minecraft game launched to grow future forestry workforce
Discover Forestry has launched a new Minecraft-based learning game that lets students grow and manage their own virtual forest, reflecting real New Zealand plantation forestry systems. The game takes players through the full forestry cycle, from establishing a crop, through ...
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05 May 2026
Electric vehicle truck conversions surge as fuel crisis pushes freight industry to reinvent itself
Electric trucks could soon become a common sight on Australian roads as industry players race to cut reliance on diesel and strengthen the nation’s fuel security. An Australian company is now converting traditional diesel trucks into fully electric vehicles — ...
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05 May 2026
Tesla Semi Truck has officially started mass production
For almost a decade, Tesla has been working to launch one of its most impactful products to reduce transport emissions: the Tesla Semi electric truck. Now, the first Tesla Semi has officially been produced off a high-volume production line in ...
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05 May 2026
Can’t see the trees (Video)
Just in case you ever wonder what us foresters get up to. The AI-generated video was created by presenter Julian Moore as part of Forestry Australia’s webinar on AI Skills to Save Time & Improve Productivity. The video was developed to give participants ...
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05 May 2026
Shredded wood for roading: Innovative use of harvesting residues
FGR assisted Hamish Scown of Pan Pac Forest Products Ltd with recent trials of using shredded wood from forestry debris as temporary roading aggregate. Three test roads were built using shredded wood in layers half a metre deep (500mm) to ...
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05 May 2026
Permitting progress for 6040 carbonizer
The Tigercat 6040 carbonizer is a mobile, track-mounted unit that transforms woody debris into high-quality biochar onsite. It reduces volume by 90% and sequesters 20-30% of the available carbon in the feedstock, while slashing emissions by up to 98% compared ...
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05 May 2026
Leading the charge on fuel-efficient operations
A major step forward in reducing emissions and future-proofing operations has been switched on at Kaingaroa Processing Plant (KPP), with the commissioning of a new high-capacity electric charger to support RFH’s growing electric fleet. The 400kW charger has been installed ...
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05 May 2026
USDA announces availability of new log truck route planner tool
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) today announced the launch of an innovative new tool, the Log Truck Route Planner, to help forest owners, mill operators, and log truckers in the Pacific Northwest allocate timber and ...
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07 Apr 2026
Development of slash grapples for residue removal
Issues with woody debris mobilising after severe rainfall events and the new regulations put in place to counter the downstream effects of this, have driven a Forest Growers Research (FGR) project co-funded by MPI and the Forest Growers Levy Trust. ...
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07 Apr 2026
Forestry company parks electric truck despite spike in diesel prices
An electric truck trial in South Australia’s south-east has shown the vehicles are fit for some use in the forestry industry, but are not financially viable — even with diesel prices soaring. Fennell Forestry launched a trial using a truck converted ...
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07 Apr 2026
Building the Future: Minecraft in NZ Forestry
An immersive learning experience. Forestry Minecraft World isn’t just a game, it’s a complete educational tool developed with funding from the WIDE Trust. The resource includes a Forestry Minecraft Guide Book for teachers and a series of modular challenges for students. These ...
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07 Apr 2026
FICA fuel adjustment factor calculation
As you are well aware as a result of the conflict in the Middle East fuel prices have risen rapidly over the past two weeks. FICA has been talking with FOA and MPI regarding the situation and has been asked ...
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07 Apr 2026
Waratah Forestry Equipment introduces the new FL90 directional felling head
Waratah Forestry Equipment has launched the all-new FL90 directional felling head, purpose-built to deliver strength, agility and intelligent performance in a size class that fits a wide range of applications. Designed for 20+ metric ton carriers, the FL90 provides loggers with ...
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07 Apr 2026
Ponsse launches the next generation Opti 5G information system for track-based machines
Ponsse continuously develops solutions that improve the work of forest machine operators and is now introducing the next-generation Opti 5G information system also for tracked based machines. The system is specifically designed to enhance productivity, ease of use, and data ...
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07 Apr 2026
A key reason 84% of fleets are investing in safety tech
The ‘Mobilizing the Future of Fleets Report: 2026 Risk and Exoneration Edition’ uncovered that a third (34%) of fleets reported being impacted by fraudulent motor claims. 77% of respondents also agreed that increasing litigation and legal costs are now a ...
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07 Apr 2026
Building a wildfire business case for biomass harvesting
Following the 2023 record-breaking year of extreme wildfires across Canada, the topic of how to best manage wildfires came to the forefront for many organisations within Canada’s forest products sector, as well as all levels of government. One organisation that has ...
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07 Apr 2026
Historic first at Eastland Port
Recently, the Norse Antwerp came in smoothly alongside the Yangtze Keeper at Eastland Port – and history was made. For the very first time, two 180-metre long vessels were able to berth next to each other on Wharves 7 and ...
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07 Apr 2026
FISC safety alert: Yarder stabilising ram failure incident
The forestry sector has long relied on Thunderbird TY50 and TY70 tower yarders—machines designed to be light, transportable, and efficient. However, a serious harm injury of a worker, has highlighted a critical safety concern that demands immediate attention. The yarder ...
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03 Mar 2026
Report: Across Australia, Eucalypt forests are declining
Across Australia, Eucalypt forests are declining in ways that cannot be fully explained by drought, pests, pathogens, or climate change. A major cause of this decline lies in the long‑term exclusion of regular, low intensity fire, an ecological process that shaped ...
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03 Mar 2026
New tool to help road managers and industry understand the impact of heavy vehicle assets
The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has released Freight PASS, a new online tool designed to help users compare the productivity, asset impact, safety and sustainability trade-offs of different heavy vehicle configurations. The new web app enables users to compare ...
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03 Mar 2026
NEFD 2025: What it means for the forestry sector in NZ
The Ministry for Primary Industries’ (MPI) National Exotic Forest Description 2025 (NEFD) provides the latest snapshot of New Zealand’s plantation forest estate and confirms that the resource continues to expand and mature. Net stocked area increased to 1.82 million hectares, up 1.4% from 2024, while ...
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03 Mar 2026
Safetree NZ – It’s time to focus on the soft tissue issue
Soft tissue injuries are quietly becoming one of forestry’s biggest safety problems. New FISC work on ACC data shows that sprains, strains, and similar injuries consistently account for more than half of all ACC forestry claims requiring more than five days off work. ACC defines ...
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03 Mar 2026
Tigercat drum chipper to debut
The new Tigercat 6440 is a heavy-duty drum chipper designed for high production and ease of operation. The high horsepower engine uses a through-drive and belt system where the rotor drive belt is driven off the motor using a flex ...
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03 Mar 2026
New Australian Log Haulage Manual & resources are available
ForestWorks is pleased to announce the completion of the new Log Haulage Manual for the Forestry Log Haulage Code of Practice and a companion suite of educational training videos. These resources provide concise, practical guidance to support safer log transport and ...
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03 Mar 2026
AI-powered robot vehicles team up to fight fires
Fighting fires could be done remotely, without the need to place firefighting crews directly in potentially dangerous situations. Collaborative teams of artificial intelligence-powered robots, with extinguishing equipment on board, has had success in initial soft trials. Led by Cyborg Dynamics Engineering ...
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03 Mar 2026
SA’s $400k investment to boost regional forestry training
The South Australian Forest Products Association (SAFPA) has warmly welcomed the State Government’s commitment of A$400,000 in funding to support the completion of LITA’s new training base, a significant investment in securing the future of skills development and long-term industry ...
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03 Mar 2026
Understanding real-world driver behaviour
Every day, thousands of professional drivers navigate New Zealand’s roads, delivering goods, keeping communities connected, and carrying the nation’s economy forward. Behind the wheel, however driver fatigue and distraction remain silent risks with the potential for devastating consequences. AutoSense has ...
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03 Mar 2026
The Patchell Group expands options through Australian joint venture
With decades of experience designing and building transport solutions for New Zealand conditions, The Patchell Group continues to focus on what it does best — producing robust, New Zealand-built trailers engineered to last. The Patchell Group has always been at ...
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02 Feb 2026
Horse powertrain joins scania electric timber truck pilot
Horse Powertrain has been selected by Scania to provide its advanced range-extender system for the pilot vehicle, currently operating as a heavy-duty timber truck in Sweden. The collaboration marks an important step in testing hybrid powertrain solutions for demanding transport ...
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02 Feb 2026
New AI cameras stop runaway bush fires in Tasmania
At 8.40am on Dec 12, 2025, in the midst of Australia’s bush fire season, a blaze erupted in Golden Valley, a remote woodland region of the island state of Tasmania. Typically, such a fire in a sparsely populated area might not ...
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02 Feb 2026
Forestry training changes: Industry consultation open
Changes are underway across New Zealand’s vocational education system, and forestry training is part of this wider reform. These changes follow the Government’s decision to disestablish Te Pūkenga and restructure work based learning, which has included Competenz. Competenz has confirmed it ...
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02 Feb 2026
Changes to NZ forestry earthworks training standards
A New Zealand Certificate in Infrastructure Works, comprising Forestry earthworks unit standards, has just been launched. The qualification, approved by the NZ Qualifications Authority is specifically for Earthworks Excavator Operators, as to date, there has been no suitable Level 3 qualification ...
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02 Feb 2026
7 supply chain tech breakthroughs from CES 2026
From AI-driven digital twins to autonomous robots, CES 2026 highlighted practical technologies reshaping how goods are made, moved and delivered. Every January, the global technology sector converges on Las Vegas for CES, billed as the “most powerful tech event in the ...
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02 Feb 2026
Future in motion: Canadian zero-emission truck trials
Future in Motion is a technical series presenting the key findings from the completed Zero–Emission Trucking Testbed Project led by the PIT Group and FPInnovations. This project was conducted with support from Transport Canada’s Zero–Emission Trucking Program and in collaboration ...
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02 Feb 2026
Feedback open: NZ workplace drug & alcohol practice guide
Safetree wants your help as it prepares the first update to its Drugs and Alcohol Good Practice Guide and Policy for Fitness to Work in over a decade. And we need your feedback by Friday, 13 February, 2026. The current guidance was ...
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02 Feb 2026
Using machine data to boost forest productivity
New Zealand forest harvesting operations are highly mechanised, with all stages of the harvest process, from felling to loading out, being achieved by machines. All the functions of these machines are controlled using the Controller Area Network (CAN) bus, a ...
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02 Feb 2026
Expressions of Interest (EOI) now open for micro-credentials
Employers and workers across the forestry and wood products industry are invited to register interest in nationally aligned, flexible micro-credentials designed to build capability and support progression towards a qualification. This program is funded by the Australian Government under the ...
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03 Dec 2025
Get to the wood-chopper: heli-harvesting study now underway
The feasibility of salvaging dead Huon pine from remote areas across Tasmania using helicopter harvesting methods is being examined. Minister for Business, Industry and Resources, Felix Ellis, said the study reflects Tasmania’s commitment to balancing economic opportunity with environmental stewardship. ...
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03 Dec 2025
Austroads releases recommendations to update its guides for large freight vehicles
A new report examines how existing Austroads guidance addresses the geometric design requirements needed to accommodate large freight vehicles (LFVs). The report focuses on the physical space and layout required for safe and efficient LFV operations, rather than vehicle mass. “Innovation ...
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03 Dec 2025
Environmental Forestry 2026 rescheduled to March 2026
The Forest Industry Engineering Association (FIEA) has confirmed new dates and released the full programme for its highly anticipated Environmental Forestry 2026 conference. The event, initially slated for September 2025, will now take place on 23-24 March 2026, at the ...
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03 Dec 2025
The forestry sector’s critical role preparing for bushfires
Australia’s forestry sector is responsible for more than $100 million of direct annual investment into bushfire prevention, mitigation and response nationally, so it’s important to remember this critical industry contribution as the bushfire season in the southern states commences, Australian ...
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03 Dec 2025
Strengthening the voice of AFCA members
There has always been strength in the national collective voice of AFCA members and we are pleased to announce it will be growing stronger. It may sound cliché but adapting to more complex and demanding business changes through innovation and continuous ...
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03 Dec 2025
Workforce insights programme: employers & workers
FISC recently received a report from Worksafe – Workforce Insights Programme: Employers and Workers. WorkSafe commissioned a series of research reports on workers and employers to help track health and safety performance over time. The employers and workers report examines employer ...
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03 Dec 2025
Fire research in Australia providing lessons and mitigation
Australia’s bushfire landscape has been shaped by 60 years plus of important fire research, providing a legacy of lessons in fire mitigation, behaviour, suppression and other research areas, and the attached comprehensive review highlights this. The full review is included here. ...
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03 Dec 2025
FWPA launches new industry research archive
We’re proud to announce the launch of a new digital research archive, bringing together decades of valuable research to make it easier for the forest and wood products sector to access and apply knowledge that drives innovation. The FWPA Industry ...
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05 Nov 2025
Accelerating bioenergy in New Zealand
The NZ Government has released its Wood Energy Strategy and Action Plan and a Government Statement on Biogas, signalling its strong support for New Zealand’s bioenergy sector. Hon Simon Watts, Minister for Energy, made the announcement this week at the Residues2Revenues 2025 and Bioeconomy Innovations ...
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05 Nov 2025
Australia’s national biofuel strategy – future for heavy vehicles
Peak bodies have welcomed the landmark step taken to begin locally producing low-carbon liquid fuels for Australia’s heavy vehicle industry. The federal government has taken another step towards locally producing low-carbon liquid fuels for Australian trucks and vehicles, opening submissions ...
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05 Nov 2025
Online tool aims to reduce road freight emissions
Road freight association Transporting New Zealand are announcing the launch of an online tool that aims to help the industry decarbonise. The Green Fleet Self-Assessment Tool is a ten-question survey that allows transport businesses to estimate their emissions and identify opportunities ...
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05 Nov 2025
FWPA-backed research to safeguard Australia’s log exports
Safeguarding Australia’s log export market as methyl bromide faces increasing restrictions globally. Australia’s log export industry faces growing pressure to reduce its reliance on methyl bromide (MB), a fumigant under increasing global scrutiny. New research funded by Forest & Wood ...
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05 Nov 2025
Log haulage safety strengthened through industry collaboration
Many experts across the forest supply chain participated in the development of the Log Haulage Code of Practice (LHC) and they are collaborating again to support the development of an online tool and guidance for its implementation. “Consultation sessions are ...
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05 Nov 2025
Log transport AFMS trial a safety & productivity success
The Advanced Fatigue Management Scheme (AFMS) trials have gained traction across the trucking sector and is beginning to show tangible operational and safety benefits for the forest industry. The Log Transport Safety Council (LTSC) Log Transport AFMS trial has included approximately 520 ...
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05 Nov 2025
Timber Queensland welcomes ‘QLD Future Timber Plan’
Timber Queensland, the peak body for the forest and timber industry, has welcomed the release of the landmark Queensland Future Timber Plan, describing it as a balanced and forward-looking strategy that provides long-overdue certainty for the sector and regional communities. ...
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05 Nov 2025
1952 NSW bushfires that left a deep and lasting lesson
The 1952 bushfires in New South Wales (NSW) stand as one of the most significant events in Australia’s bushfire history, not for their death toll, but for the enduring lessons they offered in fire management and mitigation. Spanning over 8 million ...
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08 Oct 2025
Viability of electric trucks in forestry
FPInnovations has conducted a case study assessing the viability and cost of integrating battery electric trucks into fleet operations. With their high energy efficiency and zero emissions, BEVs offer a low-carbon alternative to diesel. The study examines operational constraints, such as shift ...
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08 Oct 2025
Forestry’s A$5b contribution to the Victorian economy
The forestry industry contributes around A$5.2 billion to the Victorian economy and supports more than 25,000 local and regional jobs, according to a new study commissioned by Forest & Wood Products Australia (FWPA). The Economic Contribution of the Forestry Industry in Victoria report found ...
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08 Oct 2025
New approved CoP: Safe practice for forestry & harvesting
WorkSafe NZ has released the new Approved Code of Practice (ACoP) for forestry operations along with the Health and Safety when Managing a Small Forest Harvest Good Practice Guidelines (GPG). This guidance outlines the responsibilities and legal expectations under the ...
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08 Oct 2025
New Zealand hosts global Bioeconomy Innovations conference
Forestry Resources Drive Sustainable Breakthroughs in the Bioeconomy New Zealand is set to take centre stage in the global move towards a sustainable bioeconomy, leveraging its forest resources to spearhead innovation and international collaboration. The upcoming Bioeconomy Innovations Conference, organised ...
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08 Oct 2025
Daylight savings sleep shift increases health risk for drivers
As daylight saving begins, Kiwis may welcome the brighter evenings and promise of summer BBQs, but the switch comes with a darker side. Health data shows the sudden disruption to body clocks has measurable consequences: hospitals in Michigan, US found heart ...
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08 Oct 2025
Roll out of Australia’s largest early fire detection in NSW
The Minns Labor Government is preparing state forests to be better monitored and protected from fires with the roll out of Australia’s largest early detection smart camera network mostly across central and southern NSW. Early fire detection cameras will be ...
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08 Oct 2025
Fortescue Metals has brought 400 giant electric haul trucks
Andrew Forrest’s Fortescue Metals has brought in a new supplier to help deliver the up to 400 giant electric vault trucks that his company will need to meet its ambitious target of reaching “real zero” emissions at its Pilbara iron ...
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08 Oct 2025
SA welcomes Federal investment into cleaner fuel production
South Australia’s forest industries are poised to lead the charge toward a low-carbon fuel future, welcoming the announcement by the Albanese Government of a A$1.1 billion investment package to accelerate the development of low-carbon liquid fuels. The package will support domestic cleaner ...
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08 Oct 2025
Trump’s 10% tariff on NZ timber and lumber will impact industry
A new tariff of 10 percent on most New Zealand timber and lumber exported to the United States will have a direct financial impact on the New Zealand wood processing industry, with finer details to be worked through once more ...
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01 Oct 2025
Biofuel innovation set to make waves in marine shipping
Biofuel technology that promises to help reduce the marine shipping industry’s carbon footprint is a step closer, with the launch of a company set up to lead its commercialisation. Start-up venture Biowave, launched in Wellington on August 13, will focus ...
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01 Sep 2025
Forging a new path for forestry safety
New guidance to simplify safety for forestry businesses and workers has been published by WorkSafe New Zealand. Forestry had the highest fatality rate of any sector in 2024, with 16.58 deaths per 100,000 workers. The fatality rate is 20 times higher ...
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01 Sep 2025
150 years of Forestry, but an uncertain future
National Forestry Day is usually a time to celebrate the achievements of Australia’s forest and timber industries, with this year marking 150 years since George Goyder mapped out South Australia’s first plantation. But despite this milestone, the industry faces an ...
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01 Sep 2025
Timber industry braces in troubled times
The timber industry is battening down the hatches, as it struggles with low demand, increased running costs, and wars and tariffs overseas. Carter Holt Harvey has announced plans to shut its Eves Valley sawmill near Nelson and consolidate its operations to Kawerau ...
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01 Sep 2025
Carbon Forestry 2025 – Event Summary
In August 2025, over 300 industry leaders, corporate emitters, and investors gathered in Rotorua, New Zealand – and virtually online – for Carbon Forestry 2025, the region’s premier event on carbon markets and forestry investment. Now firmly established as the ...
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31 Aug 2025
FIEA Launches 2025 Forest Products Industry Maps for Australia & New Zealand
The Forest Industry Engineering Association (FIEA) is pleased to announce the release of the 2025 editions of the Australia and New Zealand Forest Products Industry Maps. These maps have long been a staple resource for the sector—widely displayed in offices across ...
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31 Aug 2025
Trailer lifting chain safety – important reminder!
There have been two recent incidents where trailer lifting chains failed while a trailer was being lifted onto the truck, including one serious near miss that could have resulted in serious harm. Following these events, the Log Transport Safety Council (LTSC) ...
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31 Aug 2025
Reducing emissions during transport of timber
Electric harvesters and forwarders at work in the forest, less noisy timber lorries being loaded on a logging road. Is this just a pipe dream or a development we should take seriously? By the end of the decade, the above ...
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31 Aug 2025
New report: Australian forestry must reduce diesel reliance
In a new report, Australia’s leading tech and engineering academy has highlighted the urgent need for Australia to reduce reliance on diesel in mining, road freight, agriculture, fisheries and forestry. The report, released this week by the Australian Academy of ...
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31 Aug 2025
Science supports Los Angeles wildfires’ aftermath
In early 2025, wildfires ravaged Southern California. Firefighters spent days battling flames that engulfed houses, businesses and landmarks while forcing thousands to flee. But even once the fires came under control, the danger wasn’t over. As the smoke cleared from ...
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31 Aug 2025
Forestry right agreement focuses on woody biomass
A forestry right agreement between Crown Forestry and Ngāi Tahu Farming in North Canterbury is an exciting opportunity for the emerging woody biomass sector, says Paul Burridge, General Manager Crown Forestry. “Woody biomass is a leading alternative to replace coal ...
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31 Aug 2025
Conference clash prompts review of wildfire readiness
Levy changes and rising risks drive capability assessment. A cancelled panel at a Christchurch rural and forest firefighting conference has brought to light wider debate over wildfire strategy, funding, and capability in New Zealand. The discussion – planned for last ...
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04 Aug 2025
Exoskeleton tech shows promise in protecting forestry workers
The same exoskeleton principles that protect grasshoppers, crabs and similar creatures could also help protect the 25,000 or so workers in the job with the highest injury and fatality rates in America, forestry. “Forestry is vitally important to our economy ...
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04 Aug 2025
Mid-year reflections from WIDE Trust scholars: Fieldwork, innovation & growth
At the WIDE Trust, we’re proud to support students who are not only dedicated to their academic development but are actively building careers across forestry, environmental science, wood processing, and engineering. The following stories from Semester One show the real-world ...
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04 Aug 2025
Mack Pioneer™ sets new safety standards
Mack Trucks has announced comprehensive details of the industry-leading passive and active safety technologies in the Mack Pioneer™, the company’s most advanced highway truck. Building upon Mack’s legendary commitment to durability and reliability, the Pioneer introduces a suite of cutting-edge safety features, including front and side ...
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04 Aug 2025
Hybrid-electric forwarder prototype unveiled for the first time
In 2023, Komatsu Forest announced an initiative to establish a brand-new development department focused on the electrification of forestry machines. With this investment, the company aims to reduce the net carbon emissions from its forestry equipment. The initiative aligns fully ...
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04 Aug 2025
FWPA’s transforming challenges into opportunities
Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA) is continuing its strong commitment to advancing Australia’s forestry industry, announcing a major investment in new research worth $8.75 million. This latest round of funding marks another milestone in FWPA’s mission to deliver impactful, ...
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04 Aug 2025
Forestry workers’ perceptions on occupational safety
Forestry is, by its very nature, a high-risk profession. This study dives into what makes forestry workers feel safe (or unsafe) on the job, comparing the perspectives of those in British Columbia, Canada, and South Korea. Both regions are committed to ...
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04 Aug 2025
New Log Haulage Code focuses on promoting safety
The Australian Forest Contractors Association has welcomed the release of the Log Haulage Code of Practice, developed through a lengthy engagement process with industry. The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator developed the Code to assist industry to ensure safety in the ...
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04 Aug 2025
New burn technology to be tested
Pilot project aims to cut wildfire risk and smoke from slash piles. The Oregon Department of Forestry is teaming up with the owner of 33,000 acres of private timberland west of Bend to test a new technology that reduces the ...
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04 Aug 2025
The first machine of its kind – hybrid electric logging yarder
T-Mar Industries Ltd, a Canadian manufacturer that specialises in building machines for the forestry industry, has developed the first ever hybrid electric logging yarder. “This is the first machine of its kind anywhere,” says Tyson Lambert, VP of T-Mar Industries ...
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04 Aug 2025
Driving SA’s forest trucks to net zero
Efforts to decarbonise freight transport are being accelerated through a State Government supported project aimed at supporting South Australia’s forest industries to reach net-zero targets. The State Government is investing $200,000 towards the Decarbonising the Freight Task – Driving to ...
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30 Jun 2025
SP launches two new harvester heads
SP has added two long-awaited additions to their product range – two new harvester heads that take both efficiency and performance to the next level. SP 461 LF Next Generation SP 461 LF Next Generation is the next-generation thinning head ...
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30 Jun 2025
Chainsaw drone could help improve staff health and safety
Researchers at the University of Canterbury has spent the last eight years developing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs or drones) that can use precise tools in complex, dynamic environments. Led by UC Computer Science Professor Richard Green and UC Mechanical Engineering ...
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30 Jun 2025
Tigercat announces dealership transition in New Zealand
Tigercat is officially announcing a change in authorised dealership for the distribution of its purpose-built forestry equipment in New Zealand. Effective July 1, 2025, the distribution rights will transition from AB Equipment (ABE) to CablePrice (NZ) Ltd. (CPL). This decision ...
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30 Jun 2025
Austroads report: Life-saving automatic crash notification systems in Australia and NZ
Austroads has released a new research report that explores options for the implementation of Automatic Crash Notification (ACN) systems in Australia and New Zealand. These systems automatically alert emergency responders when a crash occurs, transmitting critical data such as location, ...
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30 Jun 2025
New inland ports to boost local economy, developers say
Australasia’s largest industrial development with a new inland port is set to create a multibillion-dollar logistics and manufacturing network in the South Island and boost Otago’s $16.8 billion economy, says developers Calder Stewart. John D’Arcy, lower South Island business development ...
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30 Jun 2025
New Komatsu forwarder with 25 tonne load capacity released in Australia
With the Komatsu 898, Komatsu Forest is now taking the next step in the development of large forwarders adapted for plantation forestry in, among other places, South America as well as final felling in Australia, North America, and Europe. A ...
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30 Jun 2025
Keith Andrews Truck invests in AI
Nintex, a global leader in AI-powered process automation and application development, today announced that Keith Andrews Trucks has transformed how it operates and scales, digitising everything from onboarding to safety reporting and customer feedback with the Nintex Automation CE Platform. Founded in Whangārei more ...
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30 Jun 2025
SEQH launches world-first electric road train
South East Queensland Hauliers (SEQH) has unveiled a world-first electric triple road train which will soon begin operations at the Port of Brisbane. The 53.5m Volvo FH-powered combination, believed to be the world’s biggest of its kind, will cart empty containers ...
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29 Jun 2025
New Safetree manual felling videos a hit
Safetree’s new videos for manual fellers have proven a hit on our TikTok and Facebook accounts, drawing tens of thousands of views. With manual felling still forestry’s biggest critical risk area, accounting for more fatalities than any other task, Safetree was keen to create resources showcasing best practice in this highly skilled area. Teaming up with Tairāwhiti Timber Training’s managing director, Alan Paulson, and Safetree Certified Faller Benjamin Hohepa, a series of videos focusing on key aspects of safe manual felling ...
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29 Jun 2025
NZ Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries – June 2025
This Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries (SOPI) shows a food and fibre sector on the rise after some tough years. Thanks to the sector’s hard work, strong prices for key exports, and a focus on strong relationships with our ...
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02 Jun 2025
NZ facts & figures now available for 2023/24
The 2023/24 Facts and Figures publication is produced annually by the New Zealand Forest Owners Association (NZFOA), providing the latest data and insights from across New Zealand’s forest growing sector. It includes planted forestry highlights, ownership and forest management information, deforestation trends, export and production statistics, health and safety data and supplementary information such ...
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02 Jun 2025
Residues2Revenues 2025 – expressions of interest
The Residues2Revenues event is back, and will run on 21-22 October 2025 in Rotorua, New Zealand. Last year saw a record turnout, with over 200 attending from across forest management, harvesting, log cartage, and wood processing & manufacturing operations. Demand ...
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02 Jun 2025
Workforce planning key to delivering road projects as activity peaks across Australasia
With road infrastructure investment across Australia and New Zealand reaching historic highs, a new Austroads report highlights the opportunity – and urgency – of strengthening workforce planning to meet surging demand. The Australia and New Zealand Roads Capability Analysis: March 2025 ...
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02 Jun 2025
NZ Govt backs commercial forestry with practical changes
The Government is taking firm action to ensure commercial forestry – one of New Zealand’s most productive and sustainable export sectors – is not stifled by red tape and inconsistent council rules Minister of Forestry Todd McClay announced today. Public ...
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02 Jun 2025
LTSC funding ‘My Everyday Wellbeing’ trial
Invest in Your Wellbeing with LTSC and My Everyday Wellbeing! The Log Transport Safety Council (LTSC) is excited to offer members an exclusive opportunity to enhance their physical and mental wellbeing. As part of the “Wellbeing Package” project, LTSC is ...
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02 Jun 2025
Exoskeleton tech shows promise in protecting forestry workers
First study of its kind identifies the biomechanics of forestry work and workers’ perceptions of this emerging technology. The same exoskeleton principles that protect grasshoppers, crabs and similar creatures could also help protect the 25,000 or so workers in the job ...
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02 Jun 2025
Caterpillar announces collision warning system
Next generation Cat® medium wheel loaders are infused with the latest technologies to advance safety and help customers work faster and with greater accuracy. Fully integrated for optimal performance, the wheel loaders can be easily upgraded with optional technologies as work demands ...
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02 Jun 2025
NZ$3b investment to create NZ’s largest inland port in Otago
A $3 billion privately funded development in Otago is set to create New Zealand’s largest inland port, in a move expected to future-proof South Island freight logistics and significantly boost export capacity for the region’s primary industries. The Milburn Quadrant development, ...
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02 Jun 2025
Machine harvester productivity: A Queensland case study
This research studied the harvesting and processing productivity of cut-to-length and whole-tree harvesting operations in the southern pine plantations of Queensland, Australia. Elemental time and motion studies were completed for the harvesting of each system, a cut-to-length harvester-processer and a ...
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02 Jun 2025
Mitigating bushfires: How AU & US towns are reducing risk
There have been many bushfires that have had major impacts on towns and cities, indeed many that were bushfire disasters. However, there have been many cases where prescribed burning, mechanical treatments/thinning, active management options and grazing have resulted in reduced impacts on towns ...
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05 May 2025
TruckSafe NZ launches to lift heavy vehicle safety standards
A new industry-led safety programme aimed at raising standards across New Zealand’s transport and logistics sector has officially launched. TruckSafe New Zealand is a not-for-profit Safety Management System (SMS) that invites heavy vehicle operators of all sizes to work towards formal ...
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05 May 2025
Tigercat releases new steep slope carriers
Tigercat has released two new track carrier models based on the new sloping tail platform for steep terrain harvesting operations. Both the L857 feller buncher and LH857 harvester are powered by the efficient Tigercat FPT N67 engine. Power is delivered ...
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05 May 2025
The road to green: AI and sustainable fuels tackle transportation emissions
As one of the largest contributors to anthropogenic U.S. greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, the transportation sector is continually seeking new ways to reduce its carbon footprint. According to the EPA, transportation accounted for the largest portion (28%) of total U.S. GHG ...
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05 May 2025
Australian forest harvesting operator training survey
Ensuring industry has access to skilled and competent operators is an ongoing challenge. This survey aims to generate some baseline information about approaches and challenges relating to training and assessment of forestry operators in Australia. Given significant cross-over, the survey ...
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05 May 2025
Revolutionary drone technology for battling wildfires
In a partnership aimed at revolutionising wildfire response, Strategic Natural Resource Group (Strategic) and FireSwarm Solutions Inc. (FireSwarm) have joined forces to make automated aerial fire suppression a reality in Canada. With wildfires escalating in frequency and severity, innovative solutions ...
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05 May 2025
New committee to shape the future of NZ forestry training
The Forest Owners Association (FOA) and the Forest Industry Contractors Association (FICA) have come together to establish a new joint Training Committee to strengthen how the sector approaches vocational training. The new committee is comprised of eight individuals, with four ...
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05 May 2025
The NSW Alps 5 years after the 2019/2020 bushfires
Opinion and opportunities review John O’Donnell on 4 April 2025 The author undertook this 5-year review of the alpine area post the 2019/20 Dunns Road bushfire, in particular the Kosciuszko National Park (KNP) section and areas to the west and ...
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05 May 2025
Kauri tree protection guidelines
Brendan Gould, the NZ Forest Owners Association (NZFOA) biosecurity manager, launched the guidelines to protect kauri trees, at the Forest Biosecurity Conference. The guidelines have been developed in partnership between Forest Owners Association, Farm Forestry Association, Forest Growers Levy Trust and ...
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05 May 2025
Volvo CE unveils new generation wheel loaders
Volvo CE is introducing the first wave of a new generation of wheel loaders, starting with five models ranging in size from the L150 to the L260. Designed for optimal productivity, operator comfort and safety, these new wheel loaders are ...
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04 May 2025
Biosecurity workshop: A case study on logging trucks
A recent biosecurity workshop explored practical ways to reduce the spread of soil-borne pathogens via logging trucks. Bringing together industry experts, researchers and government, the workshop focused on logging trucks as a potential vector for pathogens like Phytophthora, a group ...
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23 Apr 2025
Work-based learning to become industry-led
Beginning next year, the Government will introduce a new, independent, and industry-led model for work-based learning, Vocational Education Minister Penny Simmonds says. “Vocational education and training providers will be able to manage all aspects of an apprenticeship or traineeship at ...
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07 Apr 2025
Australian forestry does not make forests more flamable
The views of Australian academics Professor David Lindenmayer and Associate Professor Philip Zylstra, as reproduced in recent CFA Newsletters (December 2023 and March 2024), that logging and prescribed burning are making Australian native forests more flammable are highly contested by many Australian forest ...
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07 Apr 2025
Rural groups call for FENZ review
Forest owners and farmers want a review into Fire and Emergency NZ, saying wildfire specialist skills and capability is being lost. In 2017 the National Rural Fire Authority, 12 rural fire districts, and 26 territorial rural authorities merged with the ...
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07 Apr 2025
New QLD website & magazine promoting facts and resources
This week peak industry body Timber Queensland launched a new website and released the annual partner magazine, Grounded, amplifying the association’s powerful voice on political, technical, market development, industrial and environmental issues. Strategic Relations & Communications Manager Clarissa Brandt said as the public ...
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07 Apr 2025
ABARES releases Wood Volumes Analysis
Last month’s publication of the Wood Volumes Analysis indicates Australia has reliable access to structural forest and wood products to meet future demand. The report provides an analysis of the long-run supply of and domestic demand for wood products in Australia, ...
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07 Apr 2025
AFWI: National Open Call for Research is live
Expressions of Interest (EOI) for transformative, industry-focused forestry research are now open until 14 April 2025, as the Australian Forest and Wood Innovations (AFWI) National Open Call for Research launches its second round. This round invites bold ideas with real-world ...
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07 Apr 2025
New AFPA video – what we can’t live without…
The Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) has launched a candid new video that demonstrates the importance of the essential and sustainable products our sector creates, Chief Executive Officer of AFPA, Diana Hallam said. “This video, try living without Aussie timber and ...
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07 Apr 2025
Australian Log Haulage Industry Code of Practice consultation
The NHVR is seeking public feedback on the draft Log Haulage Industry Code of Practice. Feedback should be provided to codes@nhvr.gov.au by Friday 18 April 2025. The Log Haulage Industry Code of Practice is a practical guide that assists parties in the Chain of Responsibility (CoR) ...
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07 Apr 2025
Nelson-Tasman transport companies earn top safety rating
Two Nelson-Tasman transport companies, Stuart Drummond Transport Limited and Borlase Transport, have achieved the prestigious five-star rating in the Log Transport Safety Council Health and Safety Contractor Audit, placing them among only 14 companies nationwide to receive this elite recognition. This achievement represents the ...
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07 Apr 2025
NZ industry pushes back on new ACOP
WorkSafe is currently completing a full review of the Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) for Safety and Health in Forest Operations. The ACOP, often referred to as the “Bush Bible”, was established in 2012 under the Health and Safety in Employment Act ...
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07 Apr 2025
Australian trial to use AI to reduce wildlife vehicle strikes
New technology trials to improve the road safety of motorists and reduce the number wildlife vehicle strikes, particularly of koalas, kangaroos and wombats, will be rolled out in coming weeks, delivering on an election commitment by the Minns Labor Government. ...
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05 Mar 2025
Austroads and Esri Australia to revolutionise geospatial insights for smarter transport solutions
Austroads is advancing its geospatial capabilities to unlock smarter, data-driven solutions for road and transport management across Australia and New Zealand. Key to this initiative is the telematics data collected by Transport Certification Australia (TCA), a business unit of Austroads. ...
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05 Mar 2025
Black Hawk helicopter called in to help with logging
Whakatāne residents have had front-row seats to a demonstration of heli-logging using a Black Hawk helicopter during the past week. Whakatāne District Council has contracted a logging firm to fell trees on two blocks of pine trees on steep terrain ...
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05 Mar 2025
Update to Successful demo of automated leader-follower platooning on forest roads
In collaboration with Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, FPInnovations successfully completed a three-week demonstration of Kratos Class 8 automated trucks in leader-follower mode in Quebec. The purpose of the trial was to assess the ability of the Kratos leader-follower platoon ...
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05 Mar 2025
Komatsu announces new TimberPro TN230D log loader
Komatsu is pleased to introduce its newest log loader, the TimberPro TN230D. The new machine was built from the ground up based on customer and distributor feedback and was carefully engineered to help improve productivity and provide additional operator benefits. ...
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05 Mar 2025
Electric excavator boasts full day operation
The advanced technology behind the new generation makeover of the 23-ton EC230 Electric excavator from Volvo CE gives customers double the typical operating hours of its predecessor. Now capable of a full day of operation on a single charge, the ...
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05 Mar 2025
Subbies deserve safety at work too
A forestry subcontractor was failed by poor risk management from the two businesses above him, both of which have been sentenced for their inaction. 39-year-old Misha Tremel was killed while manually felling trees on a small block at Clevedon in ...
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04 Mar 2025
NZ wide mobile coverage: A game changer for the forestry sector
Our team have been actively using OneNZ’s SpaceX Starlink mobile phone text service for a couple of weeks now, and the impact of nationwide mobile coverage is starting to become evident. Even in the most remote areas, far from any ...
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03 Mar 2025
Research burns aim to improve wildfire readiness, response
Scion is running experimental research burns near Christchurch from March 3-14, to test new theories on how wildfires spread under various conditions. This will help improve operational and community readiness for and response to future events – and enhance firefighter ...
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05 Feb 2025
Safety Alert from Log Transport Safety Council
Please find attached a Safety Alert update following a serious log transport incident on SH30 Atiamuri in the South Waikato on January 21st involving the trailer of a self-loading truck detaching while driving on a public road. The details of the ...
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05 Feb 2025
Concerns for South East Australia’s fuel management
Editorial by John O’Donnell The NSW Rural Fire Service 2023/2024 Annual Report is now available and worth discussing. Hazard reduction burning and mechanical removal totalled 139,927 hectares for NSW (Appendix pages 98 and 99): There is difference in terminology used, some use ...
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05 Feb 2025
NZ AI-powered tool to combat rising wildfire danger
A new wildfire forecasting system that updates using real-time weather data could help firefighters protect lives and property from a growing global threat. Developed by an international team led by Dr Alberto Ardid, a research engineer in Civil and Natural Resources ...
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05 Feb 2025
Log trains return to New Plymouth
Log trains have restarted between Whanganui and New Plymouth, helping reduce road congestion and transport emissions. This will include services running to Port Taranaki, so people are being urged to be extra vigilant when crossing the tracks next to the Coastal ...
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05 Feb 2025
New demo of self-driving truck platooning in Canada
Kratos Unmanned Systems has successfully executed a multi-week demonstration of its self-driving truck platooning system technology with FPInnovations, a Canadian research and technology organisation that assesses, adapts and delivers solutions to Canada’s forest industry’s total value chain. The Kratos developed self-driving system ...
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05 Feb 2025
World’s first hydrogen combusting engine
JCB has cleared significant hurdles in its development of the world’s first hydrogen combustion engine after securing landmark rulings from licensing authorities allowing it to be used commercially in machines, the company announced. JCB is the first construction equipment company to ...
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05 Feb 2025
Shaws Iron Test: Bigger than Big
When Rotorua Forest Haulage’s (RFH) Kaingaroa Site Manager, Jay McLean, drives up to our meeting spot he has a 60 litre drum of petrol on his Ute for the regraders crew at the Kaingaroa Processing Plant (KPP). Obviously a hands-on ...
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05 Feb 2025
Tigercat releases LX877 Feller Buncher
Tigercat has released the LX877 feller buncher, the second model to be built on the new sloped tail platform. The LX877 is equipped with Tigercat’s well-proven closed loop drive system. Equipped with a 260 kW (350 hp) engine, it is ...
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04 Feb 2025
TR Group secures new hydrogen truck supplier deal
TR Group has confirmed new purchase agreements to bring hydrogen fuel cell electric trucks (FCEVs) to New Zealand. The updated fleet plans include 20 hydrogen trucks with first deliveries expected early this year. It follows the collapse of its original deal with US-based ...
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04 Dec 2024
Battery electric trucks best option to cut transport emissions
Battery-electric trucks are the best option to reduce emissions from road freight transport, and market forces are working in their favour, according to a report by the German Institute for Economic Research (DIW) in collaboration with the Technical University of Dresden and ...
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04 Dec 2024
Alternative Fatigue Management Scheme: Martinborough Transport 2024
The alternative fatigue management scheme (AFMS), is a risk management scheme that, once approved by the NZ Transport Agency, allows commercial transport operators greater flexibility in their operations. The AFMS was developed after consultation with industry and sleep management experts. ...
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04 Dec 2024
New report on NZ forestry fatalities
An analysis of forestry fatality data over the last decade shows that manual tree-fallers are estimated to be 300 times more likely to die at work than the rest of the New Zealand workforce. Between 2013 and 2023, 51 forestry ...
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04 Dec 2024
Australia’s trucking labour shortage
Australia’s trucking labour shortage is now reaching critical levels. Calls for major legislative reform in the industry from individuals, companies and organisations have often fallen on deaf ears. But is it about to change? The trucking industry is the backbone ...
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04 Dec 2024
AI bushfire detection network ready for SA’s bushfire season
The rollout of a new bushfire detection camera network using artificial intelligence (AI) to protect the state’s forest plantations and communities in the South East has been completed in time for fire danger season, with industry now in conversations about ...
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04 Dec 2024
Science, technology and innovation in NZ forestry
Letter from NZIF to NZ Prime Minister I write on behalf of the New Zealand Institute of Forestry (NZIF) to express our deep disappointment regarding your recent statement on RNZ suggesting forestry does not embrace science, technology, and innovation (ST&I), while dairy ...
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03 Dec 2024
John Deere increases production of forestry equipment
John Deere has announced the expansion of its forestry equipment production at its John Deere Specialty Products facility located in Langley, British Columbia, Canada. Manufacturing of the 900-Series models will start later this year, followed by the 800-Series models in early Spring 2025. ...
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03 Dec 2024
Waratah Forestry Equipment launches new HX line of application heads
Waratah Forestry Equipment has launched an all-new HX line with its 624HX and 626HX harvester heads and purpose-built LPX loader-processor head. Building on generations of Waratah HTH attachments, the new extra-large harvester and loader-processor heads have been redesigned for extreme applications. “All part of our new HX (harvester ...
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03 Dec 2024
Choosing the right DMS for your fleet
In the demanding world of New Zealand transport, where long hours and challenging road conditions are a constant, ensuring driver and freight safety is more than just a priority—it’s essential. With the ongoing risks of driver fatigue and distraction, businesses ...
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03 Dec 2024
Logging company at fault in 2021 worker death
WorkSafe is again urging the forestry sector to reflect on what more it can do to improve safety, as the details of yet another worker death emerge from a court prosecution. Jake Duncan was fatally struck when a log came ...
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04 Nov 2024
New electric timber truck in operation
SCA’s new electric timber truck with a crane is finally rolling in the Östavall area. The truck, which is a collaborative project between SCA and Scania, is the first in Europe to collect timber in the forest for further transport to ...
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04 Nov 2024
Mainfreight rolls out 560+ cameras in Australian fleet
Mainfreight Australia is powering up their driver safety efforts with the installation of 560 MiTAC units from AutoSense in their rigid, local fleet vehicles by February 2025. With around 180 Guardian by Seeing Machines cameras already installed in their line haul (interstate) trucks, ...
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04 Nov 2024
Mike Hurring Logging apprenticeship programme
Well known logging and contractor, Mike Hurring Logging, started apprentice group training 7 years ago to build more capacity in the harvesting sector. Based in Balclutha, New Zealand, there was an ongoing shortage of young operators to fill the expected ...
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04 Nov 2024
Netherlands announces satellite truck tolling
The Dutch transport authority, RDW, has announced that it has awarded the contract for a new satellite-based electronic tolling system for trucks to Triangle, a consortium led by the Portuguese company Via Verde. Triangle, which includes partners Yunex Traffic and Ascendi O&M, ...
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04 Nov 2024
Plans for high strength steel nets to manage woody debris
Aratu Forests has announced plans for the first of three Swiss-designed high strength steel debris nets which aim to reduce the amount of woody debris flowing into catchments following storm events. Aratu plans debris nets at private properties bordering Te Marunga, Waimanu ...
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04 Nov 2024
Komatsu Forest : Sustaining the Future of Forestry
Founded in 1921, global equipment manufacturer Komatsu originates from the Japanese city of the same name – home of the former copper mine, Yusenji, which was once vital to the local community’s economy. When Meitaro Takeuchi, Komatsu’s Founder, assumed ownership ...
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04 Nov 2024
Video: A look back at logging from the 1930s
This is a 1971 color film made by Bert van Bork entitled “The Lumberman” was part of the “Our Changing Way of Life” series of films released by Encyclopedia Brittanica. The film looks at the seachanges that have come to ...
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04 Nov 2024
New South Wales Rural Fire Service puts Volvo FM Electric to the test
With an RFS water tanker in tow, the electric prime mover tackled the 550 kilometre route from the services’ Glendenning NSW logistics headquarters to the border city of Albury, arriving to be displayed at the NSW RFS Championships in the suburb of Thurgoona. ...
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30 Sep 2024
AI shows forestry operators best routes in forest
Researchers are developing machine learning methods to help mechanical harvesters to travel more lightly, use less fuel and leave less noticeable strip roads in the forest. Researchers at the University of Helsinki are developing machine learning methods enabling the harvester to assist ...
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30 Sep 2024
A Tesla Semi has already traveled 250,000 miles
We learned a lot about Tesla Semi thanks to a new presentation from the head of the electric truck program at Tesla, including the fact that Tesla ran one of the trucks 250,000 miles (400,000 km) already. Tesla Semi has ...
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30 Sep 2024
Road freight transport sector supports call for industry-led approach to vocational training
Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand has joined with a coalition of motor industry organisations calling for an industry-owned and led training organisation for the automotive and motoring sector which can better prepare graduates for rapid technological change through work-based ...
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30 Sep 2024
Update to Road Engineering Manual: Forest Road Design for HPMVs
The NZFOA/NZFFA Transport and Logistics committee is pleased to announce the release of a new appendix to the New Zealand Forest Owners Road Engineering Manual, titled Forest Roads for High Productivity Motor Vehicles with Two Drive Axle Log Trucks. Prepared ...
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30 Sep 2024
Kesla to introduce new harvester products at FinnMETKO
Manufacturer of base-machine-independent harvester heads Kesla continues to develop its fleet of products and will introduce exciting new products at the FinnMETKO trade fair. The KESLA RH-III harvester head range was developed and launched only recently, so completely new models ...
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30 Sep 2024
New operator at the helm for Waingawa log yard
A new operator takes up the reins of the CentrePort Waingawa Log Yard this week in the Wairarapa, concluding a competitive tendering process. The Waingawa User Group, the partnership of CentrePort, Forest Enterprises, Farman Turkington Forestry Ltd, Forest 360, China Forestry Group, Wairarapa ...
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30 Sep 2024
Fortescue debuts hydrogen-powered haul truck prototype
Fortescue’s hydrogen-powered haul truck prototype, dubbed “Europa”, has made the 1,100-kilometre journey from Perth to the Pilbara where it will now complete site-based testing. Over the coming months, the Liebherr T 264 haul truck will be tested in a real-life mining environment at ...
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30 Sep 2024
Using AI to combat fatigue in truck drivers
A three-month trial of Guardian by Seeing Machines cameras in six of its truck and trailer combinations identified instances of driver fatigue, leading the company to implement the technology across their entire fleet of over 200 vehicles. Hilton Haulage GM ...
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30 Sep 2024
How education fuels forestry’s future
After many years in the teaching field, Patrick (Paddy) Aislabie’s career branched out in an unexpected direction. A key connection was all it took for now Silviculture Crew Manager Paddy to shift into the dynamic world of forestry. During his time working ...
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30 Sep 2024
More mills will close – Op-ed
There’s a lever the government’s not pulling to support the wood processing and forestry sector. It’s also a key to reducing emissions, hitting Paris obligations and saving the taxpayer hundreds of millions. Both parts of the broader forestry sector are ...
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27 Sep 2024
Forrest strikes $4 billion deal for electric trucks and dozers
Iron ore billionaire and green energy evangelist Andrew Forrest has struck a $4 billion deal that will see hundreds of giant electric trucks, excavators and dozers installed at its huge iron ore mines to help eliminate the burning of fossil ...
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02 Sep 2024
PF Olsen NZ log market report – August 2024
Market Summary August At Wharf Gate (AWG) prices around New Zealand decreased by an average of 2 NZD from July prices. A strengthening NZD against the USD means September AWG log prices in NZ will be under further pressure. There was ...
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