NO. 404 // MARCH 2020
New CLT plans – Page 16
PAGE 18 PAGE 22 PAGE 28 IHG’S STORE OF THE YEAR – DELIVERING BETTER THE PEOPLE CHANGING RETAIL HEROES COATINGS BUILDING WITH TIMBER
TTN404_01_cover.indd 1 14/2/20 5:33 pm TTN404_03_contents.indd 2 14/2/20 12:04 pm PUBLISHING DATA 10 CONTENTS Publisher: Ian Brooks (02) 9126 9705 Association update ...... 4 [email protected] Editor: Donyale Harrison News ...... 8 0417 487 497 [email protected] Cover story Advertising: Julie McConachy 0409 381 813 Timberlink is set to open a new CLT and GLT [email protected] plant in SA or Victoria ...... 16 Subscription Manager: Julie Hughes (02) 9439 1955 [email protected] IHG Store of the Year Art Director: Julitta Overdijk We take a look at Australia’s best independent Published 12 times per year by: hardware, trade and garden centre Paragon Media Pty Limited ABN: 49 097 087 860 businesses in 2019 ...... 18 Suite 14, Level 2/174 Willoughby Road Crows Nest NSW 2065 PO Box 81, St Leonards, NSW 1590, 22 Coatings feature Australia Tel: 02 9439 1955 Fax: 02 9439 1977 Mills, merchants and even builders have an Email: [email protected] opportunity to increase their sales and profi ts Circulation: proprietors, managers and with pre coating. Plus, health- and eco-friendly executives in all sectors of the timber and building materials industries coatings that don’t cost the Earth ...... 22 including merchants, building material centres, hardware stores, timber window and door manufacturers, truss and Watt about the workplace frame manufacturers, timber fl ooring Are biometric attendance records lawful? retailers, stair, balustrade and solid timber furniture manufacturers and For business owners, what are your rights their associated suppliers and industry associations throughout Australia. and responsibilities? ...... 26 Established October 1985 ISSN 1035/4298 AutoBuild News Print Post Approved: 100002694 Email: [email protected] We look at the exhibitors who will be at Website: www.timbertradernews.com 28 Timber Offsite Construction 2020 and Subscriptions for 12 editions: Australia: $99 (incl GST) preview some of what’s on show...... 28 New Zealand: NZ$120 Overseas Airmail: AU$250 Timber noggins Engineering good connections ...... 34 PERSONNEL EDITOR FTMA newsletter ...... 36 Donyale Harrison Phone: 0417 487 497 donyale.harrison@ Truss talk paragonmedia.com.au With Paul Davis ...... 38
SALES DIRECTOR Julie McConachy COVER CREDIT: Courtesy Timberlink Phone: 0409 381 813 [email protected]
E-newsletter subscribers: 5753 PUBLISHER Ian Brooks Source: Audited Media Association of Australia; Phone: 02 9126 9705 Average Net Distribution: 1599 CAB Total Distribution Audit. For further [email protected] Period ending September 2016 information visit www.auditedmedia.org.au
Disclaimer Unless explicitly stated otherwise in writing, by providing editorial material to Paragon Media, including text and images you are providing permission for that material to be subsequently used by Paragon Media, whole or in part, edited or unchanged, alone or in combination with other material in any publication or format in print or online or howsoever distributed, whether produced by Paragon Media and its agents and associates or another party to whom Paragon Media has provided permission.
www.timbertradernews.com TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 3
TTN404_03_contents.indd 3 14/2/20 5:30 pm ASSOCIATION UPDATE
ASSOCIATION NEWS
truss and our merchants. I was reminded at RECRUITING NEWS TABMA the Annual Dinner just how many of today’s Late last year TABMA introduced a National David Little timber industry leaders started their careers Recruiting Team headed up by Katie (Kat) as TABMA cadets, trainees or apprentices, Cook-Pearce. Thanks to some very good IT TABMA TURNS 80! and we want to celebrate those legends systems, more targeted advertising and This year TABMA celebrates its 80th alongside the stars coming through. partnerships with groups working with birthday, and we have some very exciting Please save the date to recognise those school leavers, we are enjoying the best events and projects coming up to recognise legends and come away with some real, flow of very good candidates we’ve seen. this important anniversary. implementable programs to address your It’s tough out there, but I truly believe the talent issues. Alicia Oelkers is running the best way to find and keep good young talent HUNTER VALLEY CONFERENCE project and would love to hear from former is through traineeships. We find better TABMA is holding its first conference (that TABMA people; expect a call! candidates and they are more likely to make I’m aware of, but hey, I’m new) in the While you’re saving dates, note that our it through to be future leaders. Hunter Valley on 18-19 June (arrival drinks on annual dinners will be held in Queensland It is with great pleasure that I announce the evening before). The Conference will be on 5 September and NSW 23 October. that Bill Phillips is joining our team, bringing a celebration of our history and a series of Following the success of our very formal with him his extensive recruiting experience. speakers and workshops will address the National Awards dinner, these will be aimed TABMA can now offer members a full range chronic issues of skills shortages and our at fun and camaraderie. Bring your team to of fee-for-service recruiting services, from ageing workforce, particularly in frame and thank them for their contribution! CEO to Trainee.
TABMA TRAINING MOVING ONLINE TABMA Training is the fastest growing division within TABMA today and has some exciting programs up for delivery later this year. We are currently evaluating e-learning platforms to drive TABMA Training into the future. With a membership covering such a large territory, we needed to find more efficient learning methods to remain competitive and to deliver an excellent service to our regional members, many of whom are our biggest training supporters. We are also working with some of our larger members (and some non-members), taking their existing training programs, re-engineering them together to build in-house, accredited programs which will take employees towards (or to complete) certificate level, formal qualifications, tailored to your business. Finally, we’re addressing the ongoing shortage of estimators and detailers in our membership with bespoke programs integrated into Certificate-level qualifications, which can dramatically speed up the time to bring new trainees to productivity. Let me or June Dunleavy know if you want to look at a program for your business.
DEALING WITH YOUNG STAFF TABMA remains committed to helping members with finding, retaining young talent, and for keeping them safe. This year PHOTO: ROBERT KYLLO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM ROBERT PHOTO: we will run a number of webinars dedicated YOUNG/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM F. LISA PHOTO:
4 TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 www.timbertradernews.com
TTN404_04-07_AssociationNews.indd 4 14/2/20 8:49 am ASSOCIATION UPDATE
The drivers should have been classified as employees, as they drove company- owned vans, wore uniforms and worked stipulated hours.
the company had incorrectly classified employees as contractors. “If employers misclassify employees as independent contractors and pay flat rates that undercut entitlements, they face serious consequences such as court action, hefty back-payment bills and penalties,” Ombudsman Sandra Parker said in a statement released on 6 January. to helping members understand the new TTIA “Businesses who need information on generation and give them tools to better Brian Beecroft whether an employment relationship exists work with them. should contact us.” One of our recruitment partners – Year 13 – SHOULD THE FAIR WORK Parker’s comments came as the FWO reports their research shows that 43% of OMBUDSMAN COME KNOCKING, announced it had begun legal action against school leavers finish school not knowing what ARE YOU PREPARED? Brisbane-based Boske Road Transport, they want to do (after schoolies). Another If you’re an employer, it’s important to keep alleging the company had underpaid four of more troubling statistic from Year 13 is that up to date with ever-changing modern its drivers a total of $63,803, by classifying 68% of young people are struggling or have awards, employee entitlements and them as independent contractors instead of struggled with their mental health. Managing obligations. Are you confident your business as award-governed employees. employees, particularly young employees will comply if the Fair Work Ombudsman The regulator said that the four drivers who are experiencing mental health issues visits? Now the silly season has passed, get worked for Boske for various periods is real management challenge – often as the working year off to a positive start. between March 2016 and August 2018 and employers we don’t know the details (maybe As managers, leaders and business were engaged as independent contractors. the employee doesn’t either) but are noticing owners who employ and manage staff, it’s However, it has alleged that the drivers changes in behaviour, or performance or important to ensure you keep up to date should have been classified as employees, attendance issues. There are many with employee entitlements and your as they drove company-owned vans, wore organisations that can help, especially if it is obligations as an employer. company uniforms and worked hours as a young or disadvantaged employee and Too many businesses across the country stipulated by the company. TABMA can point you in the right direction. have been hit with accusations regarding As a result, the drivers were paid between underpayment of wages bills and penalties $7460 and $32,486 less than they would SCHOOL BASED TRAINEESHIPS for underpaying their workers or incorrectly have been under the relevant industry Not so long ago many of us had school kids accruing their entitlements following audits awards, including through the omission of working in our stores after school and by the Fair Work Ombudsman. annual and sick leave entitlements as well weekends and many of those kids took a The regulator has made it clear it will as penalty rates. full-time role when they finished school. continue its strong approach to enforcement One of the individuals was engaged as a Changes to employment laws including to and outcomes during 2020 and will focus on long-distance driver, who the FWO alleged minimum hours have all but dried up that underpayment breaches of Awards and the was also underpaid by not receiving a cents- recruitment path. The NSW Government has National Employment Standards. per-kilometre entitlement. The anomalies invited TABMA to participate in a School- If your house isn’t in order, now is the came to light during an investigation sparked Based Trainee program, where school kids in time to get it right. For clear advice, you by requests for assistance from workers. Year 12 can commence a traineeship that should contact TTIA industrial relations The FWO is seeking full backpay, with will include working at one of our members’ experts on (02) 9264 0011. interest and superannuation, on the stores part time. amounts it claims were underpaid, in This might be a very good method of CRACKDOWN ON EMPLOYEES addition to penalties being applied against finding talented young people before they BEING CLASSIFIED AS Boske. An initial hearing has been scheduled are snapped up elsewhere. If you are CONTRACTORS in the Federal Circuit Court for 22 May 2020. interested in participating or want more info, The Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) recently Employers seeking assistance in clarifying give me a call on 0447 813 786 or email launched legal action against a Queensland- this issue are welcome to contact TTIA on
PHOTO: ROBERT KYLLO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM ROBERT PHOTO: [email protected] based transport company where it claimed (02) 9264 0011.
www.timbertradernews.com TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 5
TTN404_04-07_AssociationNews.indd 5 14/2/20 8:49 am ASSOCIATION UPDATE Timber Offsite Construction 2020 is the only national event for design, Bac ac ers aren t a manufacture and construction of offsite so rce o ine ensi e timber and mass wood buildings. abo r A stra ia s em o ment aws Now in a to orei n its 22nd wor ers and bac ac ers st as year t e do to A stra ian citi ens or residents. Timber & Technology MGA TMA is a general guide, we recommend you seek with each employer, study for up to four nn anfe specifi c advice for your circumstances. months then leave and re-enter Australia. This may happen any number of times while EMPLOYING BACKPACKERS FROM TYPES OF ISAS the visa is valid. However, the 462 visa The Zero Carbon Future O ERSEAS There are two types of visas that are most additionally allows for backpackers to apply There is a common misconception that common among backpackers. The fi rst is the for a second and third visa provided certain foreign workers are a source of inexpensive 462 (Work and Holiday visa) and the second conditions are met. labour; however, Australia’s employment is the 417 (Working Holiday visa). Both visas laws apply to foreign workers and are for persons aged between 18 and 30. ENTITLEMENTS backpackers just as they do to Australian Both the 462 and 417 are temporary visas Overseas backpackers working legally are citizens or residents. for young people who want to holiday and entitled to wages and benefi ts as though If a backpacker holds the correct visa with work in Australia for up to a year. However, they were Australian citizens. These benefi ts appropriate conditions, then they have the the 417 visa can be renewed for a further include the employer paying in accordance right to work while they are in Australia. As year, subject to conditions being met. with the relevant Modern Award and paying an employer, it is prudent to ensure that a superannuation into a complying fund if the potential backpacker employee does, in fact, ISA CONDITIONS backpacker earns more than $450 per have the right to work in Australia. You need Both the 462 and 417 visas allow month. The employer is required to withhold to know how long that right will last. This backpackers to stay in Australia for up to tax according to the Australian Taxation means evidence of the appropriate visa and 12 months. A backpacker may work in Offi ce’s schedules, provide the benefi ts of a tax fi le number. The following information Australia, generally, for up to six months the National Employment Standards and afford protection under workplace health and safety laws. The conference theme ‘Timber & Technology. Timber Offsite PENALTIES FOR ALLOWING A The Zero Carbon Future’ reflects current global Construction PERSON TO WORK ILLEGALLY developments emerging that are changing the way There are signifi cant penalties for allowing 2020 Conference a person to work illegally, which involve both we will build in the future. & Exhibition monetary fi nes and/or imprisonment. People Suppliers of ® found to be working in breach of their visa Speaker Sessions will provide leading international Ecowood Preserved Wood Decking Monday & Tuesday Decking Products conditions may have their visa cancelled and speakers along with highly knowledgeable local experts. with stability and performance! will be deported. 15-16 June at Treatment does not affect timber dimensions. As an employer, you must take care to Building Project Panel discussions will provide Crown Promenade Durable against decay and termite damage. ensure backpacker employees have a legal Preserved in final shape and form. right to work in Australia and that you are ‘real life’ examples of challenges and solutions Melbourne Ideal for sensitive applications or where frequent human contact is expected. abiding by employment laws and developed for buildings currently under construction. Can be painted, stained or oiled. regulations. The best practice to adopt is to Organised by assume that overseas backpackers have the Exhibition booth displays offer opportunities to same rights as residents or citizens. It is Contact Us for sales or go online for a network with suppliers for unique access to contacts copy of our new DIY Deck Guide good practice to document all decisions you H3 www.outdoortimber.com.au make concerning your business. and information. [email protected] For MGA TMA member assistance, call Principal Supporter 03 8706 1250 1800 888 479 or (03) 9824 4111. For Visit the website for full program details Ecowood is registered trademarks of Lonza or its subsidiaries used under licence. © Outdoor Timber 2019 members ip en uiries contact Ann San e , and SAVE with Early Bird rates!! ann.san e @mga.asn.au or 0411 886 716. ALEKSEY/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM NOVIKOV PHOTO: www.frameaustralia.com TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 www.timbertradernews.com
TTN404_04-07_AssociationNews.indd 6 14/2/20 8:49 am Timber Offsite Construction 2020 is the only national event for design, manufacture and construction of offsite timber and mass wood buildings. Now in its 22nd year Timber & Technology The Zero Carbon Future
The conference theme ‘Timber & Technology. Timber Offsite The Zero Carbon Future’ reflects current global Construction developments emerging that are changing the way 2020 Conference we will build in the future. & Exhibition Speaker Sessions will provide leading international Monday & Tuesday speakers along with highly knowledgeable local experts. 15-16 June at Building Project Panel discussions will provide Crown Promenade ‘real life’ examples of challenges and solutions Melbourne developed for buildings currently under construction. Organised by Exhibition booth displays offer opportunities to network with suppliers for unique access to contacts and information. Visit the website for full program details Principal Supporter and SAVE with Early Bird rates!! www.frameaustralia.com
TTN404_04-07_AssociationNews.indd 7 14/2/20 8:49 am NEWS IN BRIEF
INDUSTRY NEWS Clever cladding Two new products hit top trends with none of the traditional problems.
nStyle Timber Products is known for its Iextensive, high-quality timber offer, so when the team there is excited about a new range, you know it’s something special. In this case, it’s two thermally modified wood cladding options that Wayne Hawker, general manager at Bayswood Timber (producers of InStyle Timber Products) describes as game-changing. “We’ve only just brought these new products to the market, and we’re very excited about them,” Hawker says. “They integrate seamlessly into our traditional products, but with added advantages.” The first is Ignite, a board with the “The Ignite has a fragrance to it, but not appearance of a charred shou sugi ban “People are buying on that strong charred smell that the traditional finish, but created through staining, brushing product has,” says Hawker. “And if you brush and embossing rather than charring, so it look and performance, past it, you won’t get any marks or stains on delivers all the textural and colour effect your clothes. That’s a common complaint with none of the mess of the standard, and these products with conventional charred timbers. This charcoal-coated product. deliver on both.” product has the same good looks, but its advantages outweigh the conventional product by miles.” The second is Drift, which captures the softened, subtle tones of reclaimed timber without the need for complex cuts to manage the irregular sizes, flaws and distortions of the traditional product. “People are very much buying on look and performance, and these products really deliver on both fronts,” says Hawker. Both Drift and Ignite are made from spruce, which has been thermally modified to create a Class 1 durability product that is highly resistant to rot and unappealing to insects, thanks to having its natural sugar content ‘cooked’ out. The process also leaves the end product less absorbent, meaning it has great dimensional stability and stands up to weathering well. Ignite has a 20-year rot resistance rating and Drift has a 25-year-plus rating. Supplies of both Ignite and Drift have recently arrived in Australia. For more details, visit www. Above: Ignite interior boards add drama, but no charcoal mess. Top: Drift exterior cladding. instyletimberproducts.com.au
NEW PRODUCT ON THE MARKET? BIG NEWS? DON’T KEEP IT TO YOURSELF! If you are launching a product or your business has an announcement, send it to [email protected] for the chance to be featured here. PHOTOS: COURTESY BAYSWOOD TIMBER BAYSWOOD COURTESY PHOTOS: COMBILIFT COURTESY PHOTOS:
8 TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 www.timbertradernews.com
TTN404_08-14_news in brief.indd 8 14/2/20 12:06 pm NEWS IN BRIEF
Above: ombilift s ombi for lift.
ifting i er Combilift nominated in two 2020 I Y Award categories
ot on the heels of last year’s nomination Hfor the Combilift Combi-PPT in the 2019 IFOY (International Intralogistics and Forklift Truck of the Year) Awards, come t o nominations for the 2020 awards. With its rigorous judging process and expert panels, Above: he ombi is nominated in the I arehouse ruc o lifter ategor . the IFOY is one of the most prestigious and hotly contested international awards in the materials handling industry. Combilift is the designed for narrow spaces and has a multi- only manufacturer to have two of its position tiller arm that can be turned left or products nominated for 2020 IFOY Awards. right of the unit, allowing the operator to The I Y is one of the The fi rst is the Combi-CBE4 in the Special work from the side of the machine, giving Vehicle Category. This 4000kg-capacity optimum visibility and greater safety. most prestigious and electric-powered, all-wheel drive forklift Both units feature patented Combilift hotly contested incorporates compact counterbalance design technology, designed for peak performance with multidirectional capability for the and user-friendliness. international awards versatile handling of mixed-sized loads. It As we go to press, the fi nalists are features Combilift’s independent electric undergoing an audit and innovation check by in the industry. traction, which gives every wheel 100% industry experts in Hanover, Germany, with traction control, removing the need for highlights captured on the IFOY LinkedIn “Following the nomination of the differential locks and allowing the forklift’s page. As part of the process, 27 journalists Combi-PPT powered pallet truck last year, control system to accurately control each from leading logistics media from 19 we are delighted that the IFOY committee wheel independently, keeping it safe from countries will also personally test and has recognised two of our innovative slipping and letting it negotiate tight turns evaluate the nominated equipment for products as being worthy of fi nalist status in with no tyre wear. qualities such as technology, design, 2020,” said Combilift CEO and co-founder The second is the Combi-CS, nominated ergonomics, safety, marketability, customer Martin McVicar. in the Warehouse Truck Lowlifter Category. benefi t and sustainability before the winners For more, visit www.combili t.com or This pedestrian counterbalance stacker is are announced on 20 April. www.i oy.or en
T H E E A S Y - A C C E S S A D V A N T A G E MID-RISE AND TALL TIMBER BUILDINGS This map shows the 40 timber buildings over four storeys in Australia in December PosiStruts will 2019. Most have some steel and concrete structural components, but timber FLOOR you! represents the dominant material in all cases. It’s highly likely there are more early TOP CHORD SUPPORT • LIGHTWEIGHT • EXTRA LONG 20th century timber-framed buildings still standing in our capital cities, waiting to be • EXTRA STRONG
added to the record. Thanks to WoodSolutions for the data underpinning this map. MiTek PosiStruts make mid and multi-storey construction QUICKER & SMARTER. Once installed, Innovationen für den Holzbau following trades can take advantage of the open-webbed design – no drilling holes – no Once compromising installed, structural integrity. Check out PosiStrut FLOORING CASSETTES – they speed up construction time even more! For more information go to: mitek.com.au
OTHER SYDNEY MGB0974 Timber High Rise Ad_FA.indd 1
BUILDINGS 6/11/19 11:43
Macarthur Gardens, Three buildings: 6, 7 and 8 storeys, 2017 Aveo Bella Vista, 10 storeys, 2018 Daramu House, 6 storeys • Macquarie University OTHER Clinical Education Building BRISBANE , 4 storeys • 202 Elizabeth St, BUILDINGS 5 storeys • Tall timber map Perry House, 8 storeys, 1913 CLTP Tasmania | www.cltptasmania.com.au Monterey Brisbane, 10 storeys • DE HAVILLAND Engineered Hardwood & Hybrid APARTMENTS TARONGA ZOO GluLam Columns and Beams Australian Habitat and Wildlife 4 storeys • Retreat, 4 storeys, 2019 AS/NZS 1328 verified GL grades PHOENIX APARTMENTS 7 storeys • CLTP Tasmania
25 KING Engineered Plantation Hardwood egular readers will have noticed the January issue promised a free map – 10 storeys, 2018
KAMBRI which was received separately and also in the February edition. Our Fenner Hall, 7 and 9 storeys and Marie Reay R Teaching Building, 5 storeys, 2019
Tilling’s SmartFrame range can perform in a range of applications in mid rise buildings • SmartLVL15 for lower wall studs; supports increased mid-rise loads • SmartJoist and TecBeam for floor joists and roof; supporting large spans & loads apologies for the delay: a mix-up meant the map was printed but not Prefabricated LVL stressed-skin long span panel system • SmartLam GLT and SmartLVL19 for beams, replacing steel where possible • and reducing carbon footprint
P 1300 668 650 E [email protected]
7 storeys, 2017 www.tilling.com.au
INTERNATIONAL HOUSE SYDNEY inserted. Thanks to our printers for not only remedying the error but making Productivity Gains = Increased profits
OTHER ADELAIDE PROSPECT LIVING BUILDINGS Framequip Autonailers, Nog Nailers, component nailer, material transfer systems and manual framing machines For more information contact 4 storeys, 2019 Verde Living, 5 storeys, 2017 Rob Amour p:0423 732 275 e:[email protected] “We support you!” sure subscribers received a bonus copy. For new readers, you can download w:framequip.com.au GOLD SPONSORS
OTHER SIL ER SPONSORS TALLER TIMBER STRUCTURES MELBOURNE High-rise (25m+ or eight storeys and above) and mid-rise (four to eight storeys) timber construction is described as a new building style in BUILDINGS Mass timber covers multiple large structural timber types, glued or UTAS INVERESK Forte, 9 storeys, 2012 BRON E SPONSORS Australia, but a century ago, timber-framed buildings of four or more nailed together for strength. When it was completed in 2012, Melbourne’s RESIDENCES 76 The Esplanade storeys could be found in most major cities. With the growth of steel Forte was the tallest CLT apartment block in the world, and revelled in , 4 storeys, 2013 COMBi iiFT LLIIFFTTIINNG and then concrete in the marketplace, timber took a back seat for some 4 storeys, 2016 The Green G IINNNNOOVVAATT II O N the material’s strength and fire-safe properties. These same properties • , 5 storeys, 2014 80 years, only to re-emerge in the past 20 as a sustainable building Lago Apartments the map of mid-rise and tall timber buildings in Australia from the side panel make CLT ideal for student accommodation such as Fenner Hall at ANU , 4 storeys, 2016Australasia method that can save on both program time and budget. TREEHAUS Newton Apartments and La Trobe University’s Bundoora site or retirement living such as Aveo , 5 storeys, 2017 Most Australian high-and mid-rise timber buildings are hybrid structures 4 storeys 4 storeys, 2019 Bella Vista. Glulam, another common mass timber product, features as Alba Apartments, 4 storeys, 2017 that incorporate use of some other materials, including concrete ground the major framing element in the Ballarat GovHub, allowing enormous 2-8 Barry St , 4 storeys, 2018 ®®
floors or steel. They fall generally into the following main categories: Peninsula University Monash spans thanks to its structural strength and dimensional stability. For a full list of the conditions of BALLARAT GOVHUB DHHS Preston Renewal Stagemembership and1 a downloadable Light timber framing 2018 storeys, 6 Campus, application form visit:
Hybrid timber structures mix different timber types to gain www. tmanews.com, uses traditional light framing timbers (including HALL GILLES 4 storeys, 2018 LVL if required for strength or span) just on a larger scale. This increase BROUGHTBROUGHT TOTO YOU YOU BY BY advantages such as cost or weight savings. For example, lower floors Oxford Apartments in scale can come from a number of factors, including clever materials , 5 storeys, 2018 may be built of mass timber for load-bearing strength with traditional Northumberland engineering, such as the use of long-spanning E15 LVL in the DHHS lightweight framing for upper floors. Or different materials can be used , 7 storeys • 752 High Street Preston Renewal Stage 1; panelisation, such as the floor cassettes that together: Fremantle’s De Havilland Apartments uses LVL for beams, , 4 storeys • Wattle Apartments were dropped into place to complete floors at The Green in Parkville; columns and joists, mixed with traditional stud framing for the walls. , 4 storeys, 2018 at or modularisation of entire rooms or even flats, as in the UTAS Inveresk Adina Hotel www.timbertradernews.com , 10 storeys • Residences near Launceston, where each unit was 99% complete Melbourne Connect Photos courtesy of: Aldanmark Consulting Engineers/Dave Groves; , 7 storeys • before it arrived on site and could simply be stacked into its slot. BVN; Frame Australia; Lendlease; Monash University; WoodSolutions Fivex House, 5 storeys, 2019 • = Under construction; dates are of building completion Olea, 5 storeys, 2019 La Trobe University Bundoora student accommodation , Two buildings: 6 and 7 storeys TT_TimberProjectsMap_edited_2.indd 1 • The Murphy Apartments , 10 storeys• Eternity, 4 storeys • PHOTOS: COURTESY BAYSWOOD TIMBER BAYSWOOD COURTESY PHOTOS: COMBILIFT COURTESY PHOTOS:
09-Dec-19 12:58:36 PM
www.timbertradernews.com TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020
TTN404_08-14_news in brief.indd 9 14/2/20 12:06 pm NEWS IN BRIEF PHOTO: RAWPIXEL.COM/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM PHOTO:
Rough-sawn cladding American company reSawn Timber is bringing new options to Australian markets.
he US is famous for its timber cladding Atlantic white cedar’s light weight, Tproducts, and for good reason, with an straight grain, ease of machining, ease of extensive product offering and long tradition finishing, low shrinkage and extreme of great design. Now Pennsylvania-based resistance to decay make it an appealing company reSawn Timber is offering interior option for builder and owner alike. and exterior cladding in rough-sawn Shiplap, tongue and groove and square weathered white cedar to our local market. edge millings are available as standard, with The four new rough-sawn designs are custom millings also available. The timber is Sirocco, a soft natural timber colour; Chinook, sustainably harvested along the east coast in a cool soft grey; Foehn, in a gentle misty of the US and is naturally durable and grey and Ostro, a cool Nordic white. These resistant to decay, with fire treatment to US complement the existing four brush-finished Class A available. products in the range, all of which feature The new cladding products join reSawn’s The pre-weathering plant-based ultra low/zero VOC finishes. already extensive sustainable range, The pre-weathering means there will be including Accoya and Kebony products and means there will be little change in exterior timber as the product multiple North American timbers available ages, and virtually none for interior as FSC certified products. little change in applications. Exterior product is finished reSawn is currently looking for Australian exterior timber as the front and back for extra protection, and the distributors and is open to discussion with consistency of colourways for each design potential import partners/strategic partners. product ages. means you can create a seamless interior/ For more information, contact
exterior aesthetic if desired. www.resawntimberco.com TIMBER RESAWN COURTESY PHOTOS:
10 TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 www.timbertradernews.com
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UPCOMING EVENTS
MARCH
ADVANCEMENTS IN TIMBER- FRAMED CONSTRUCTION This WoodSolutions seminar will explore the latest developments in timber framing for mid-rise construction. Topics include new products and uses of engineered timber in mid-rise design, including LVL as a stud, and off-site manufactured elements. There will also be information on the recently published AS 1720.4 Timber Structures Fire Resistance of Timber Elements and other updates on the sector. Free for design and building professionals, Wednesday 4 March at the NSW Teachers Federation Conference Centre, Surry Hills, For more details and bookings, visit each. Speakers topic session followed by 12–5pm. To book, visit www.eventbrite. https://passivehouseaustralia.org/ parallel Building Project Panel sessions. In a com.au/e/advancements-in-timber- SPPHC2020/ break from previous years, delegates can framed-construction-tickets-93181607697 register for any combination of half-day JUNE sessions to attend only their primary topics M AY of interest. The topics are Building design TIMBER OFFSITE CONSTRUCTION influences, Construction productivity, PASSIVE HOUSE CONFERENCE The 2020 Frame Australia event has a new Manufacturing and technology, and Global 28–31 May in Sydney at UNSW’s theme: ‘Timber & Technology: The Zero wood building products. Roundhouse, with several major timber Carbon Future’. Expert speakers will lead For more, visit www.timberoffsite construction projects as case studies. each of four half-day themed sessions, with construction.com or turn to page 30. PHOTO: RAWPIXEL.COM/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM PHOTO:
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www.timbertradernews.com TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 11
TTN404_08-14_news in brief.indd 11 14/2/20 12:06 pm NEWS IN BRIEF
This premium capped polymer decking is 100% PVC made from up to 54% recycled materials. It does away with painting or staining, and delivers an elegant, convincing timber look in a range of finishes that come with a Lifetime Limited Product Warranty and a 50-Year Fade & Stain Warranty. The product is perfect for wet areas, including around pools, and while it is possible for Leave a lasting impact with Thermory mould to grow on the surface if the deck is left damp, it doesn’t penetrate and wipes Thermory is the union of lasting natural beauty and function. Thermally modified decking, straight off. The proprietary Alloy Armour cladding and flooring products with unequalled longevity, stability and rot resistance. Polymer decking Technology in the protective capping of the Designed to enhance the environment and last for generations. Woodhouse Timber brings TimberTech Azek to the Australian decking prevents fading, staining, and weathering, allowing Azek boards to stand marketplace. the test of time. Woodhouse Timber CEO Mark Woodhouse uch as it hurts to say this: sometimes and now one of the best is being launched says, “We are excited about both the Mtimber isn’t the best solution. When it here. Respected national supplier TimberTech Azek decking products and NO ADDED EXCEPTIONAL DIMENSIONAL EASY ECO- comes to decking, people who prioritise low Woodhouse Timber has partnered with working with a company of the calibre of CHEMICALS DURABILITY STABILITY INSTALLATION FRIENDLY maintenance or have decks in damp areas TimberTech to exclusively offer the TimberTech – the number one brand in Chemical-free High level of Significantly reduced Innovations for From sustainable may be better off with a non-timber option, TimberTech Azek decking range in Australia. composite premium decking. modification process rot resistance equilibrium moisture easy and invisible forestry, without “They have changed the game with some content installation harming rainforests of their investment in sustainability and recycling and innovations such as Multi- Width Decking and the new Azek Vintage Thermally modified real wood products with beauty and stability in every fibre. Collection decking is unique in the market as it is not only engineered to last longer than any other composite decking, but it also has a natural hardwood look.” The Vintage Collection is available in natural Mahogany, Cypress, Dark Hickory and English Walnut shades, as well as Coastline, with a subtly bleached look. The first stock should have hit the market in February and is available in two lengths, 4.8m and 6.0m, and two widths, 140mm and 184mm, both 25mm thick. All Thermory.com Thermory Thermory Thermorydesign Thermory AS measurements are rounded off from their actual imperial sizing. The soft tones of the Harvest collection are also available by special order. For more information, visit www.
Above: Azek Vintage Collection in Cypress with Dark Hickory accent. Top: Vintage in Mahogany, with dog. woodhouse.com.au/timbertech-azek WOODHOUSE COURTESY PHOTOS: AVAILABLE IN AUSTRALIA:
australiantimbers.com.au instyletimberproducts.com.au 12 TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 www.timbertradernews.com
TTN404_08-14_news in brief.indd 12 14/2/20 12:06 pm PHOTOS: COURTESY WOODHOUSE TTN404_08-14_news inbrief.indd 13 modification process Thermally modified real wood products with beauty and stability in every fibre.Thermally modified inevery stability real woodproductsand withbeauty Chemical-free CHEMICALS NO ADDED Thermory is the union of lasting natural beauty andfunction. natural istheunionoflasting beauty Thermory Thermally modifieddecking, Leave alasting impact with Thermory cladding andflooringproducts withunequalledlongevity, and stability rot resistance. Thermory.com Designed to enhance theenvironment for andlast generations. AVAILABLE INAUSTRALIA: EXCEPTIONAL DURABILITY rot resistance High levelof Thermory equilibrium moisture Significantly reduced DIMENSIONAL australiantimbers.com.au STABILITY Thermory Thermorydesign Thermory AS Thermory Thermorydesign Thermory content easy andinvisible INSTALLATION Innovations for installation EASY instyletimberproducts.com.au harming rainforests From sustainable forestry, without FRIENDLY ECO- 14/2/20 12:06 pm NEWS IN BRIEF
In brief Bushfire recovery Top industry and government bodies are leading the way. Paarhammer solar ell known for their highly insulative he industry response to this summer’s Wwindows and doors’ contribution Tunprecedented fire season is ongoing and to sustainability, the Paarhammer team inspiring (see page 36 for some of the stories We know the process has now upped its green credentials coming out). We know that the whole with photo-voltaic solar panels providing process of recovery is going to take time and of recovery is going just under 100kW of electricity to its involve a great deal of expertise. manufacturing plant. With peak Forest and Wood Products Australia to take time and production times and peak solar power (FWPA) has updated its free resources to involve a great deal coinciding through most of the year in help re-build resilient homes in bushfire- Australia, it makes economic as well as prone areas. A program of workshops and of expertise. environmental sense. The panels are yet further informational resources will also be another in the company’s steps to limit rolled out over the coming months in fire- trials on recovery rates for wood exposed their impact and maximise efficiencies. affected communities. to the fires. These resources include Building with The Federal Government has tasked Cloud solutions Timber in Bushfire-prone Areas Guide 4 CSIRO with delivering practical resilience (www.woodsolutions.com.au/articles/ measures in relation to bushfires and iTek Australia’s recent expansion building-timber-bushfire-prone-areas- climate change. Mtowards a hybrid cloud system guide-4) and an updated online BAL Dr Larry Marshall, Chief Executive of the allows for fast recovery times in the calculator (www.woodsolutions.com.au/ CSIRO says, “CSIRO will provide event of disasters, as well as easy articles/bal-bushfire-calculator-v20) recommendations on how we can better remote working. The move comes FWPA will also be hosting workshops for prepare for and manage bushfires when thanks to Nutanix, supplier of hyper- the community, local councils and building they occur, including new tools driven by converged infrastructure software, design professionals and collecting science and technology.” hardware and support services, in information from the current fires to help If given free rein, the results will be very conjunction with Melbourne-based IT support timber usage if there are any valuable. CSIRO draws on a range of science partner Honeylight Consulting. proposals to change the current standard. disciplines across the organisation for “We’re focused on investing in the “FWPA is an evidence-based organisation bushfire research including: fire prediction, right technology for our business, so but there are some groups who seek to fire behaviour, fire monitoring, fire we’re in a position to continue to remove timber from building construction in suppression, fire testing, bushfire modelling support our customers to the highest bushfire-prone areas without regard to tools, understanding the link between standards,” said Daniel Heathershaw, evidence or an assessment of the costs and bushfires and greenhouse gas emissions, air MiTek’s IT manager – Asia Pacific. benefits,” says Ric Sinclair, managing quality, fire impacts and recovery planning, “Nutanix is a key part of that strategy. It director, FWPA. “As an industry, we need to post fire-season review and field work that has simplified our IT operations, given remain vigilant to ensure that the right informs building codes, disaster us increased stability and created a information is readily available to support management, Indigenous fire knowledge, roadmap to hybrid cloud and better and maintain important markets such as community resilience, environmental services for our customers.” landscape timbers, framing and decking.” rehabilitation and climate research. One of the solutions the company is FWPA is also developing a best-practice For more. visit www.fwpa.com.au and testing is Nutanix Xi Frame Desktop-as-a- guide for log storage and salvage following www.csiro.au/en/Research/Environment/ Service (DaaS), which improves staff a bushfire event. This will include in-mill Extreme-Events/Bushfire mobility and could potentially create new business opportunities in remote regions. Nutanix has also improved MiTek’s disaster recovery capabilities by switching away from its ageing tape- based system to a two-way data backup between the company’s primary datacentres in Melbourne and Sydney. This has enabled MiTek to minimise downtime in the event of an outage – reducing costs and potential reputational damage. The system meets Mitek’s need for a cloud-like environment, while retaining control in-house, with a view to developing a full hybrid cloud environment over time. For more details, visit www.mitek. com.au or www.nutanix.com/en PHOTOS: DARIA NI/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM DARIA PHOTOS:
14 TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 www.timbertradernews.com
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In brief Forestry ad riday Offcuts shares news of a Fpowerful new TV campaign being launched to thank Victorian forestry workers for their contribution towards fighting this summer’s fires. They write “industry employers, VAFI, AFPA, AFCA and the Construction Forestry Maritime Mining and Energy Union have come together to co-fund a TV advertisement to thank workers in the timber industry who performed and are performing vital work to protect homes and lives during the recent and current bushfires. “The commercial features stunning footage taken by a forestry worker as he and his workmates cleared a containment line in regional Victoria. It will air for two weeks across all major networks and be supported by an expansive social media campaign.” For more, subscribe to www. fridayoffcuts.com
WoodSolutions webinars
s mid-rise timber building systems Abecome more popular, demand for engineering and design professionals Blundstone birthday familiar with their requirements is increasing. Accordingly, WoodSolutions A limited-edition boot celebrates 150 years. has scheduled a series of three webinars for structural engineers to obtain a closer look at its new ince 1870, Blundstone boots have been they have marched in armies and dug deep WoodSolutions Technical Design Guide Skeeping Australian working feet safe. In on Everest. Today, our boots continue to ‘Mid-rise Timber Building Structural honour of their sesquicentenary, the still work hard, exploring the world while Engineering’ and help them gain family-owned Tasmanian company is releasing simultaneously pounding the pavements of confidence in the new methods. a limited-edition #9150 safety boot – as well fashion capitals globally.” The first will launch the design guide as a limited-edition #150 casual boot. For stockists and more details, visit in a 40-minute talk with 10-minute The 9150 comes in oxblood leather with www.blundstone.com.au/9150-boot Q&A on 5 March, led by Adam Jones, gold tabs and some subtle 150 details. The engineering adviser at WoodSolutions. broad-fitting steel toe cap and tough rubber The second is titled ‘Design of a outsole fit the boot for use in most trades, 7-Storey Light-weight Stud Frame while Blundstone’s patented SPS Max Building’ and will be led by Jon Shanks, Comfort system helps you get through a big To celebrate 150 Associate Director at TimberED day on your feet. services, on 11 March. The third is Both men’s and women’s sizes are years, the still family- ‘Design of a 7-Storey CLT Apartment available in standard and wide fittings – owned Tasmanian Building’, led by Nick Hewson, design essential for good foot health. manager at XLam Australia, on “There are only a handful of brands that company is releasing 19 March. have been in existence for 150 years and an The second and third webinars are even smaller number that remain family- a limited-edition both 45 minutes long with 15 minutes owned,” said Steve Gunn, Blundstone CEO, #9150 safety boot. of Q&A to follow. “The success of the Blundstone brand is For details, use the contact form at that we have always remained true to our www.woodsolutions.com.au/page/ heritage. Blundstone boots were born tough contact-us
PHOTOS: DARIA NI/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM DARIA PHOTOS: to weather the untamed terrain of Tasmania,
www.timbertradernews.com TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 15
TTN404_08-14_news in brief.indd 15 14/2/20 12:54 pm COVER STORY
Above: Timberlink’s manufacturing facilities at Tarpeena, Tasmania. The new plant will be a further investment in the company’s fully integrated offer. New facility
Timberlink has announced a new CLT and GLT manufacturing plant in SA or Vic.
ith mass timber carving out an ever- towards becoming a world-class, sustainable In terms of fibre use, the facility is a Wincreasing market in Australian business that’s able to make optimal use of continuation of Timberlink’s commitment to construction, it’s the ideal time for more our wood fibre and all its carbon storage and get the best value out of its wood product. local production. Leading timber producer buildability advantages.” “Timber is a precious resource and we need Timberlink is taking on the challenge with The decision follows extensive research to add every bit of value we can to it,” Tyson its board approving plans to build a new into the global wood products market, as says. “The fibre that is used in engineered state-of-the-art Cross Laminated Timber well as a close look at fibre use from timber products isn’t necessarily the same (CLT) and Glue Laminated Timber (GLT or Timberlink’s own production. fibre that you’re putting into house framing. glulam) manufacturing facility. “We formed a view that the global mass Rather than competing for the resource, “It’s pretty exciting for us,” says Timberlink timber market still had a long way to go – we’re getting a better utilisation of some of CEO Ian Tyson. “This move represents the especially in Australia,” says Tyson. “There’s the less desirable fibre and some of the second stage of our long-term plan. We’ve plenty of opportunity for another party to be lengths of product that are also less desired invested heavily in our mills and got them involved in that, given how much we in the market. Through the manufacturing to an international standard and now currently import. process, we can finger-joint them and use we’re looking at how to add all the value “We think the service levels and the them in panels. components to that investment. Moving into complexity of the product are such that local “It’s not taking from one market and
CLT and GLT production is another step supply is the best way to grow the market.” putting in another, it’s actually expanding the TIMBERLINK COURTESY PHOTO:
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market size and creating a valuable product there talking to specifiers and architects and out of something that has traditionally been driving projects – and we’ve been a part of less in demand.” that right from the beginning. This is our In recent years, Timberlink has upgraded its fourth year of investment, even though we Australian mills, producing more volume. The weren’t in the category when we began.” new facility will increase the amount of fibre While the market share of CLT and GLT is going into quality product and will lock up growing steadily, about half is still imported carbon in building stock over the long term. from Europe and North America, even though there are several successful CHAMPIONING INNOVATION Australian producers. Issues with delays, Locations for the facility are being scouted in currency fluctuation and education are just South Australia and Victoria, with both state a few of the problems that disappear with governments and the federal government local manufacture, but as important is the involved in discussions. The plant will create security of expert local service and supply. 27 full-time permanent jobs on opening in “The reality is that the more people that 2023, rising to 50 at full output. A significant Above: CLT and GLT are still commonly imported. are out there, the more support the product number of additional jobs will be created gets,” says Tyson. “Having another major during the construction phase. player in the market to expand the Government engagement at the planning more successful, and B: probably help it to penetration, to open more doors, to provide stage makes a lot of sense, Tyson says: be more financially attractive.” more training and development – and all “Both state governments and the federal In addition to the obvious employment those things are part of our plan – will both government have been heavily focused on benefits of the facility, Tyson flags that it will grow the market and also accelerate the innovation for industry – particularly in the play an important role in driving the growth growth of the market.” wood products industry. Here we have the of mass timber construction in Australia. The Timberlink facility will be Australia’s perfect example of a major investment in “The FWPA has done an enormous second major softwood CLT plant and first innovation. Early on, we’ve said to them, amount of work in this sector,” he says. combined CLT and GLT manufacturing facility. ‘Well how can you partner with us?’ “The Mid-Rise Advisory group has been out For more, visit timberlinkaustralia.com.au “It’s not just about money, it’s actually thinking about the whole innovation journey, seeking their input on how we can gain the most advantage and what role government can play in that. Though finances do play “We’ve invested heavily in our mills and now a part. There is a fairly long payback on a we’re looking at how to add all the value project like this and if government’s able to assist, then it will A: help the project to be components to that investment.”
PHOTOS: COURTESY FWPA FWPA COURTESY PHOTOS: Above: Large and strong, panels of CLT allow for builds that go up quickly, saving on both site costs and local disruption.
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TTN404_16-17_news feature_Timberlink.indd 17 14/2/20 5:35 pm IHG STORE OF THE YEAR
Best stores in town
The finalists for the IHG 2019 Awards of Excellence represent the top tier of hardware stores across Australia, from trade centres to garden specialists, local stores to huge timber yards.
he strength of the Independent and ensured they are on board with all key MITRE 10 STORE OF THE YEAR – THardware Group (IHG) lies in its strategies for the success of the store, MEDIUM FORMAT members. These businesses – most family- leading to sales growth in a tough year. It’s a repeat nomination for last year’s winner owned – fly the flag for local service and On the other side of the country, in this category, too. Kincumber Mitre 10, strong relationships with customers – the Manjimup Mitre 10, WA, is famous for an NSW, is a community-minded family type you don’t get from a big box store. outstanding Garden Centre as well as business that puts loyalty and service first. As TTN went to print, IHG members were strengths in electrical, appliances, hardware The team operates under a simple mantra: to at the annual IHG Awards of Excellence. All and a well-presented display area housing offer “fair pricing, guaranteed service and the sizes and types of store are celebrated in kitchens and appliances. In a soft market, ability to adjust to our customers’ needs”. the finalists. Here are the nominees for the sales are up thanks to this shopper-led Crameri’s Mitre 10, Maryborough Vic, 2019 Store of the Year Awards – come back specialisation and overall staff engagement. continues to exhibit impeccable standards next month for the full list of award winners! McLaren Vale Mitre 10, SA, has a large following a Sapphire conversion in 2016. Bunnings within 6km of the store, yet the Crameri’s is highly consumer-driven – famous MITRE 10 STORE OF THE YEAR – team is growing sales by continually for its wide range of hardware and rural lines, LARGE FORMAT identifying new markets – adding a Trade as well as a liquor licence to sell beer! Last year’s category winner, Johnson Bros Centre to their famed Greenlife offer – and Streeter & Male Mitre 10, Broome, WA, Mitre 10, Mona Vale NSW, has gone from adjusting the range and offer to suit. has head-to-head competition with Bunnings, strength to strength. Building on a site Locals were thrilled when the team at but maintains its advantage through expansion and Sapphire transformation in Sunshine Mitre 10, Bundaberg Qld, impeccable standards and service. The store recent years, it’s now added a full front of wall reopened and rejuvenated a closed Home has double-digit growth in a tough, seasonal plumbing range and introduced a full-service Timber & Hardware (HTH) store in late 2017. climate, thanks to its welcoming atmosphere Stihl dealership, among other initiatives. Serving both retail and trade customers, and a strong focus on range and inventory. Benalla Mitre 10, Vic, shows the rewards Sunshine has proved a boon to the area, with The experience at Wills & Co Mitre 10, of organisational and cultural change. Owner its new Garden Centre and targeted trade Waikerie SA, is so good that one of their Gary Woodruff has invested in key personnel, ranges helping it to quickly regain business. TV commercials has been rolled out for other stores to use. Since 2017, Wills & Co has consistently grown market share, with month-on-month sales up 13.5%. The Porters family have been trading in the Mackay region for over 130 years, which may explain the comprehensive understanding Porters Mitre 10, Sarina Qld, has of the local market. An appealing store ambience and committed, knowledgeable staff keep customers coming back.
MITRE 10 STORE OF THE YEAR – SMALL FORMAT Sunlite Mitre 10, Paddington NSW, shows great things come in small packages. This landmark ‘boutique hardware’ site on Sydney’s Oxford Street is only 400m2, but immaculate and with an extensive breadth of range to suit locals over two levels. Rochester Mitre 10, VIC, is a well-
Above: Kincumber Mitre 10, NSW, a finalist for 2019 Mitre 10 Store of the Year – Medium Format. presented regional store that relies on IHG COURTESY PHOTOS:
18 TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 www.timbertradernews.com
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Above: Two of the management team from Gubbins Home Timber & Hardware: David Wansey, director sales and marketing, (left) and co-owner Nick Gubbins.
regular stock reviews to keep customers two buildings, one hosting rural supplies and consistently delivers outstanding standards happy. A mix of capital investment and sheer the second an outstanding hardware offer. across the business. The team uses social hard work has led to growth, including recent Strathalbyn Mitre 10, SA, is famous for media to drive their garden and camping improvements to the timber yard and the providing an end-to-end customer solution offers, and are active supporters of local introduction of new trade services. and continues to set new standards in sporting and community groups. A recent store conversion to the Mitre 10 merchandising. Throughout 2019 the team brand, Bindoon Mitre 10, WA, has purchased has invested heavily in new ranges and HOME TIMBER & HARDWARE (HTH) the block next door to construct a drive- reworked layouts to help secure growth. STORE OF THE YEAR – OVER 1000M2 through for tradies who are keen to deal with Well known and respected locally, Gubbins Home Timber & Hardware, Moss a local. The business is currently run across Balshaw’s Mitre 10, Mundubbera Qld, Vale NSW, has grown from a single-shed operation into an extensive one-stop destination with its well-presented retail floor, trade and timber yard, expansive Garden Centre and truss production facility, now with added landscaping operation. Located in western Victoria, Permewans Home Timber & Hardware, Hamilton Vic, has experienced year-on-year growth for the last eight years thanks to the tireless dedication of owners Paul and Denise Bast, who are always looking for new opportunities
A mix of capital investment and sheer hard work has led to growth Above: The walk-in and walk-on showroom displays at Provans Home Timber & Hardware Trade Centre.
www.timbertradernews.com TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 19
TTN404_18-21_IHG awards.indd 19 14/2/20 3:46 pm IHG STORE OF THE YEAR
Above: Mark and Fiona Loveday are stalwarts of the McLaren Vale Mitre 10 team, nominated for both Large Format and Garden Centre categories.
to cater to their clients – ranging from rural Recently upgraded as part of a regional Peterborough Home Timber & Hardware, produce and power tools to goldfish! strategy by the owners. Burdekin Home SA, has maintained good growth despite a Tropics Home Timber & Hardware, East Timber & Hardware, Ayr Qld, has seen tough regional market thanks to the team’s Carnarvon WA, carries an extensive range of sales lifted. The store is heavily involved with focus on upgrading ranges and maintaining product, meeting both DIY and local tradies’ the broader community, supporting many standards. They have grown their market by needs with all building product requirements. events and groups. Staff take pride in about 4% year on year, with power tools and The team has established an extremely loyal merchandising and introducing new ranges to garden being strong departments. customer base in the Gascoyne region, regional trade and DIY customers. Located in an outer suburb of the City of working closely with their customers to Gold Coast, Tallai Home Timber & supply every job, big or small. HTH STORE OF THE YEAR – UNDER Hardware, Qld, is a true reflection of the B&S Home Timber & Hardware, Alice 1000M2 “Best Store In Town”. Due to their small size, Springs NT, brings an impressive trade- Maclean Home Timber & Hardware, NSW, they take advantage of Hub n Spoke focused business to this remote region. It was bought by its current owners in 2018. opportunities to improve their range and gives back to the community via the annual They’ve since invested a vast amount of time buying power. The store actively fundraises for birthday sale and trade night – with major and money to bring it up to a ‘4 paint brush’ charity as well as contributing to the Gold prize giveaways such as cars and holidays. standard, with the vastly knowledgeable sales Coast flood recovery and rebuilding effort. team adding to its trade and DIY strengths. Positioned on a main thoroughfare, Pretty STORE OF THE YEAR – Sally Home & Garden, Wallan Vic, packs CONVENIENCE FORMAT plenty into its relatively small footprint with a Do It Yourself True Value Hardware, well-presented hardware, power tools, garden Bomaderry NSW, is a one-stop convenience and trade offer. A growing tool and equipment destination for local shoppers. The store is hire business as well as landscape supplies constantly engaging with suppliers to modify provide key points of difference in the region. their range to follow current market trends – The owners place great pride on the a great example of small operators who hold presentation of Waroona Home Hardware, their own in a market dominated by larger WA. A small country store, it celebrates close and more aggressive members. relationships between staff and both the rural Warburton True Value Hardware, Vic, and trade community. The introduction of the stands out as a convenient regional DIY Dulux core range has had a positive impact store with a small timber and greenlife offer Above: Emerald Mitre 10: a Garden Centre finalist. on sales and standards. backing up their hardware. The store is
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welcoming and customer-focused – selling toboggans, snow gloves and gumboots in winter for the mountains close by. Service and stock levels are geared towards both the trade and DIY market at Karratha Timber & Building Supplies Thrifty-Link, WA, with a core range of timber, hardware and building materials to suit customer demand in this remote location. A $1 million investment to build a new trade shed is planned in the near future, housing a new drive-through and all trade-related products. Shippy’s Hardware Thrifty-Link, Moonta SA, focused on adopting a number of shopper-led ranges in 2019, such as Neta garden lines, an updated paint department and improvements to the Weber Specialist display. New initiatives included building a bespoke loyalty program and producing innovative social media videos. Despite being surrounded by competition, Lennox Head Thrifty-Link, Qld, continues to drive 18% sales growth through a close understanding of their customer, competitive pricing, local area marketing and excellent Above: Pretty Sally Home Timber & Hardware is a finalist in HTH Store of the Year - Under 1000m2. standards and range –plus a commitment to quickly source product if customers don’t a two-lane drive-through, fully undercover pots and home décor placed strategically at find it in stock. timber, dedicated trade desk and coffee the front entrance to act as further invitation station/pie warmer. The result is more spend through to the greenlife oasis. Qualified TRADE CENTRE OF THE YEAR from existing builders and new renovation horticulturalists are also on hand to pass on Johnson Bros Mitre 10, Mona Vale NSW, and maintenance business. gardening tips and inspiration. is also a finalist in this category. Investing in Bowen Home Timber & Hardware, Qld, A huge team effort has gone into the a new custom-built fully undercover facility is nominated for a second year running. An merchandising at Two Dogs Home has transformed the family’s trade offer, exceptional and efficiently run retail and trade Hardware, Merredin WA, featuring fresh enabling them to better service loyal tradies business, it incorporates a growing whole-of- stock and quality signage, a comprehensive and major builders from one location. house trade proposition – including extensive seedling offer, pots and water features, as Last year’s winner, Provans Home Timber onsite storage, drive-through and a paved, well as an innovative watering reticulation & Hardware, Clifton Hill Vic, continues to undercover trade yard – with an offsite yet system, children’s playground, fish pond and set a strong benchmark for trade standards integrated frame and truss offering. a resident parrot. Overall, it helps sales and efficient service. The purpose-built site across the board and provides a relaxed has been an overwhelming success for the GARDEN CENTRE OF THE YEAR atmosphere for customers to browse at a Rosenberg family, growing their customer Gubbins Home Timber & Hardware, Moss leisurely pace, knowing their kids are safe. base and increasing spend from existing Vale NSW, has a second nomination thanks After winning last year, McLaren Vale builder accounts. The new product showroom to its purpose-built Garden Centre with the Mitre 10, SA, continues to show retail is a boon for tradies and clients alike. right selection of greenlife to suit local leadership through investment in new ranges Thornton’s Mitre 10, Denmark WA, has conditions, extensive racking and a huge and reworking key areas in the store. A been a cornerstone of the region for over 60 range of pots, bagged product and power swathe of innovations from new garden years. The team has a thorough understanding garden brands. The well-educated horticultural fixtures and expanded giftware and of the local trade market and a loyal following team caters to all customer types, from condiments to a new aviary and water from their tradies – helping the store weather novice to landscapers. In a year of flat retail features for added ambience have contributed the tough WA economic conditions over the growth, the store has seen an increase in to 22% growth on last year. Garden Centre past few years with minimal trading impact. garden sales to over $600k. manager Anthony also takes his expertise to As the first Sapphire project undertaken in There’s no other space quite like Diamond social media, giving regular helpful hints. SA, Barossa Mitre 10, Nuriootpa, has been Valley Mitre 10, Diamond Creek, Vic, in the Emerald Mitre 10, Qld, boasts a 200m2 a leader in the evolution of Trade Standards outer north-east of Melbourne – the Garden indoor plants area, plus an over-800m2 within the state. This includes the adoption of Centre wraps neatly around the store with outdoor area and an imported state-of-the- art Israeli irrigation system generating heavy water drops, creating a healthy oasis. Supporting the plants are 5000 lines of garden and plant care, while a central Tea These efforts have contributed to the store’s House provides an excellent seating area for customers to take in the ambience. These success, achieving a multi-million-dollar efforts have contributed to the store’s turnover in the Garden Centre alone. success, achieving a multi-million-dollar turnover in the Garden Centre alone.
www.timbertradernews.com TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 21
TTN404_18-21_IHG awards.indd 21 14/2/20 3:45 pm COATINGS FEATURE
Put a coat on
Customers may not always here’s a surprising amount of crossover the rescue, with painting and oiling machines Tbetween interiors trends celebrating the that deliver superior finishes, in a fraction of know exactly what colour natural qualities of timber and the ‘no make- the time and at a price difference much less they want, but when it up look’. For those who are strangers to than the labour costs for doing the job later. comes to consistency and foundation, this is a look most men will tell you involves a quick sweep of mascara and SPEEDY RESULTS environmental concerns, they maybe lip balm and most women know Danish Ceetec is one of the best-known and have some very clear views. takes a lot of skill to do perfectly. best-regarded brands in the market, with Home buyers, renovators and developers several generations of coating machinery on want timber that is perfectly finished in their the market today. A combination of brushes builds. Experienced builders will tell them the and nozzles are used to apply oil- or water- best results come from pre-coating – be that based timber oils, stains and paints. pre-oiling (and possibly staining) decks or pre- “We’ve helped dozens of timber suppliers priming mouldings and boards. Yet end users integrate Ceetec machines into their can be reticent to pay a premium over raw production lines in the last two years,” says
product. Luckily, manufacturers are coming to Will Keaney, senior brand manager trade & PHOTOMAVENSTOCK/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM PHOTO:
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industrial at Intergrain Timber Finishes – Ceetec’s Australia and New Zealand distributor. “They’re a great way of producing value-added product for timber mills or merchants who are looking for a point of difference in their offer.” Intergrain also produces and stocks a wide range of oils, primers, floor finishes and more that are suitable for use in Ceetec machines, so their clients benefit from the strong relationship between the two companies. The obvious advantage of pre-coated timbers is that they can be installed as soon as they reach site with no wait for coating or drying. But they also offer coverage that’s superior to manual applications. For example, pre-coating decking on all four sides helps prevent moisture uptake from the underside of the boards, which is the most common cause of problems such as condensation causing mould, expansion and cupping. “We’ve been fielding requests for a model that Good builders know pre-coating saves them both site work and problems, and are can manage higher volumes, as our customers happy to educate customers about its value. Some overseas builders have even bought find they’re selling more pre-coated product.” their own machines. For the mill or merchant, it’s not a huge for each run, delivering four-sided coverage. substantial health benefits, several of which step to introduce a painting machine. Many Standard settings can also be saved, giving are also economic pluses. are relatively compact and, depending on uniform quality for repeat productions and As semi-enclosed units, they make it easier the model, can be a stand-alone item or productions in different factories. to control fumes and spray. In many models, added to an automated production line. The IP 380 uses an optimal combination of including the Ceetec series, excess paints “There’s a new model coming onto the spray and flow-coat technologies, and the and oils are recycled through a filter in a market now,” says Keaney. “We’ve been flow-coat spray container can be removed, for closed circuit that feeds back to the container fielding requests from a lot of our customers easier cleaning or to replace with another – minimising waste and protecting both staff for a model that can manage higher colour. Depending on the timber and model and the local environment from overspray and volumes, as they find they’re selling more options, capacity ranges from 20m/minute to runoff. Some machines (including the IP 380) and more pre-coated product.” 180m/minute – that’s 10.8km/hour. also come with automatic washing options. In response, Ceetec designed the IP 380. Because the coating is usually applied long It’s an easy-to-operate model with a touch ADDED BENEFITS before the product reaches site, exposure to screen that lets you precisely and accurately In addition to the quality of the finish and fumes is also minimised for the build team, set feed speed, volumes and application rates speed of production, paint machines offer other trades and the occupants.
Above from left: The Ceetec IP 380 can coat up to 10.8km of boards per hour; coverage is applied directly to the four sides of the board and overflow is recycled.
PHOTOS: BRIZMAKER/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM. COURTESY INTEGRAIN TIMBER FINISHES INTEGRAIN COURTESY BRIZMAKER/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM. PHOTOS: Top: Pre-oiled timbers just need attaching. Opposite: Pre-primed cladding speeds up the end of a build.
www.timbertradernews.com TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 23
TTN404_22-25_paint feature.indd 23 14/2/20 4:31 pm ATIN S FEAT E Next-generation Timber Coating Machine
ENQUIRE ABOUT AN ON-SITE DEMONSTRATION lo ise from bove: range of ivos oils and sealers are used to highlight timber Dubron and Canto natural paints, with the Coloring Paste pallette unos furniture oil is in high demand by top makers.
of colours and tints, all supplied as standardised URA Coloring Paste, which can be mixed for bespoke shades. “While many of our Ceetec IPT380 - Now Available in Australia customers are working with small batches, our fl ooring oils are suitable Machine coating capacity of up to 180 lineal EA T ATTE S concerned about their home environment for painting machines,” says Stephenson. metres per minute Fumes are increasingly a concern for owners and ecological impact, too. “And we also make a penetrating fence oil and builders, with low- and no- OC products “One of our regular customers, who called Donnos that can be applied as Built-in touch screen, standard programs, steadily gaining in popularity and becoming recommends our product to customers, a primer on boards or strips.” more affordable. Several brands have is a person who does fl ooring,” says Oil paints and gloss products for timber with adjustable brushes and feed speed focused on releasing paints and oils that are Stephenson. “He prefers ivos fi nishes trims and metal surfaces round out the paint safe to use around humans as well as because they mean his team doesn’t have range, both with oil and resin bases, with a Uniform quality and four-sided coverage friendly to the environment. to worry about fume exposure while they rust-preventative primer also available. “This market is very much driven by the work. Many architects also recommend our “While healthy products that are Easy and quick cleaning with optional consumer,” says Den il Stephenson, director paints and fl oor fi nishes, especially if their environmentally friendly are what we focus of ivos Australia, a company specialising in clients have made a special request because on, our products are good for the timber, automatic washing program ecological plant-based fi nishes. they have sensitive skin or allergies, or they too,” says Stephenson. “A lot of premium- Its range of natural, non-toxic paints, oils, have a child who has allergies.” end furniture makers are regular users of cleaners and maintenance products was The water-based Grava sealer/primer and our products, in particular the Kunos oil developed for people with allergies and Dubron paint base are both solvent free and range, which is quite a favourite with the top respiratory issues who found themselves have excellent water vapour permeability, tier of makers.” Ceetec timber coating machinery is proudly distributed in Australia and ® affected by the high fume levels and allowing the surface underneath to breathe’. New Zealand by Intergrain Timber Finishes. Intergrain is a registered trademark. synthetic content of traditional paints and Earth and mineral pigments make up the For more information on Ceetec equipment solutions, contact 1800 630 285.
coatings, but is now popular with people colouring range, which covers a vast variety (DENMARC) BYGGEMARKED B REDYGTIGT COPYRIGHT: AUSTRA IA/ I OS FUKUSHIMA, APAN/COPYRIGHT: I.S.K.CORP., COPYRIGHT: PHOTOS:
2 TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 www.timbertradernews.com
TTN404_22-25_paint feature.indd 24 14/2/20 1:58 pm PHOTOS: COPYR HT: S CORP U USH P COPYR HT: OS USTR COPYR HT: REDY T T Y E R ED DE RC TTN404_22-25_paint feature.indd 25 Machine Timber Coating Next-generation Ceetec IPT380-Now Available inAustralia New ZealandbyIntergrain Ceetec timbercoating machineryis proudly distributed inAustralia and For more information onCeetecequipment solutions,contact 1800630285. automatic washingprogram Easy andquickcleaning withoptional Uniform qualityandfour-sided coverage with adjustable brushesand feed speed Built-in touch screen, standard programs, metres perminute Machine coating capacity ofupto 180lineal ® TimberFinishes.Intergrain isaregistered trademark. DEMONSTRATION ENQUIRE ABOUT AN ON-SITE 14/2/20 1:58 pm ATT AB T THE W R P ACE
E Prints not so charmin
A look at biometric attendance records are they law ul And what are the concerns em loyers should consider be ore introducin them
decision of a Full ench of the Fair held multiple meetings with the employee to Ultimately, he was dismissed about fi ve AWork Commission found that an explain the reason for the change in method weeks after the scanning system went ‘live’ employer’s direction to an employee to of recording hours of work. The employer at the site. He claimed he had been unfairly consent to fi ngerprint scanning for also obtained information from the scanner dismissed, but in the initial decision, the Fair attendance and time recording was not supplier about how the data would be used. Work Commission (FWC) disagreed. lawful, and therefore could not form the basis The employee refused to register his The employee appealed to a Full ench of of a valid reason to dismiss the employee. fi ngerprint on the system, and continued to the FWC, and the Full ench overturned the The employer’s direction to the employee use the paper system to sign in and out of initial decision. The Full ench found that infringed the employee’s rights under the the workplace. He did this despite multiple there was no valid reason for the employee’s (Cth), as the employee warnings, and a clear ultimatum that failure dismissal, as the direction to comply with records exemption relied upon by the to comply with the Site Attendance Policy the Site Attendance Policy was not lawful. employer only applies to records actually held would result in his dismissal. by the employer, not the process of seeking He continued to refuse to use the system, I A N E NS personal information from an employee. citing privacy concerns around the collection Employee records are exempt from the of ‘sensitive information’ (his fi ngerprint), Australian Privacy Principles (the Principles), T E BA ND and wrote to the employer seeking a even within organisations that are otherwise The employer introduced fi ngerprint scanners method of resolving the dispute that allowed required to comply with the Principles. ut in order to more effi ciently log start and him to keep his job, but also retain the FWC asserted that the exemption does fi nish times, and to better track employees in ownership of his own biometric data. not apply to records not yet in existence, i.e. attendance during an emergency. nterestingly, the employer notifi ed all the Principles don’t apply if an employee has The employee in question was a casual employees that the data gathered could not already handed over their fi ngerprint, but general hand with just over three years of be used to generate a fi ngerprint, and the they do apply if the employee refuses to service. efore his dismissal, the employee employees’ fi ngerprints would not be retained register their fi ngerprint. wrote to the employer explaining his on the system. However, registration of each Therefore, the FWC found that the concerns with the system. The employer employee’s fi ngerprint was necessary initially. employer’s collection and solicitation of its employees’ personal information (their fi ngerprint) was covered by the Principles. t is prohibited to collect sensitive information (including biometric data) without the individual’s consent. There are also restrictions on the use of the sensitive information after it has been collected.
DI E TI N T IDE FIN E INT N A F The direction to register a fi ngerprint failed to allow for the consent required under the , and the employer failed to comply with the Principles for the collection of sensitive information. Together these made the direction to comply unlawful and meant that the employee’s dismissal for
failure to comply with a ‘lawful and SER /SHUTTERSTOCK.COM AREMENKO PHOTO:
2 TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 www.timbertradernews.com
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reasonable direction’ could not be sustained. some guidance on the employee records consent might be dismissal – this would be exemption. n fact, the Offi ce of the seen as a form of coercion. E I IN E EES T Australian nformation Commission had IT I IES previously advised that the scope of the AT E ED DID T E The employee’s contract was drafted in a employee records exemption was broad E EE ET way that meant he was not required to enough to include asking for information to The Full ench asked another Commissioner comply with policies developed after his form the basis of these records. to determine appropriate remedy. t appears employment commenced. This is likely to The employer had believed they were able that the employee was represented by his have been an unintended consequence of to lawfully do so, based on advice received brother during this process, although he had the contract as drafted. at the time of implementation of the been legally represented up to that point. All contracts need to include a scanner system, and also believed that the The employee’s brother was apparently requirement that the employee will comply new system would improve both safety and entirely unfamiliar with the process. Reading with all current and future workplace payroll effi ciency. between the lines of the decision that was policies, including any amendments to t would be prudent for employers to issued in une , the employee and his policies. ut the contract must be clear that check they have ensured compliance with brother managed to signifi cantly irritate the the policy terms are not incorporated into the (Cth), including Commissioner and prolong proceedings the contract, or the employer could fi nd they providing a collection statement in situations Ultimately, the employee was not are sued for breach of contract if they fail to where sensitive information is being reinstated, but was awarded , plus abide by their own policies. solicited from employees. superannuation. This amount represented six As part of the contractual agreement, the months’ pay, the maximum compensation employee should be required to provide NSENT IN T E E ENT available under the jurisdiction. Unusually, consent in any situation where they are E ATI NS I during submissions to the FWC on the reasonably required to do so. f the Another issue brought to light by this subject of compensation, the employer employee subsequently fails to provide decision is whether the failure to provide consented to the sum of six months’ pay. consent, it is possible that this failure could consent could be used to stymie legitimate be grounds for dismissal. processes by the employer. A E BI ET I ATTENDAN E Ordinarily an employer may direct an S STE S A F I A IN T E E ENT employee to an independent medical There is nothing unlawful about an E ATI NS I assessment if the direction is reasonable, attendance system that uses biometric data. Companies with an annual turnover of but if an employee fails to provide consent to There may, however, be privacy questions million or more must comply with the the doctor to release the information, is this regarding the collection and use of that data. (Cth). This case, while specifi cally now no longer grounds for dismissal The Employers wishing to implement biometric based on another piece of legislation entirely Full ench commented that consent is not attendance systems need to be very careful (the (Cth)), provides ‘freely given’ if the result of failing to provide about their introduction.
Emma Watt is an inde endent industrial relations consultant who has, or more than 20 years, rovided advice and assistance to em loyers in the timber industry. She has also worked as an un air dismissal conciliator with the air Work Commission. Emma is very keen to ensure that em loyers know their ri hts and obli ations, so they can slee well at ni ht
Comin u in the A ril 2020 issue o TimberTrader News, we look at Practical advantages of parquets. Expanded high-end markets for timbers. etting the best returns on hardwoods.
Does your com any want to be a art o this in de th eature or advertisin your roducts and services to our 000 readers, contact ulie McConachy on or email or editorial o ortunities, contact Donyale Harrison on or email AD E TISIN AND EDIT IA DEAD INE
www.timbertradernews.com TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 2
TTN404_26-27_watt.indd 27 14/2/20 8:54 am AUTOBUILD NEWS AUTOBUILD NEWS
Offsite construction means work at site is faster and requires fewer people, minimising risks to workers at height.
Building the future
As experts and exhibitors prepare for Timber Offsite Construction 2020, we preview some of the event’s highlights and look at how the new methodology is changing construction.
or over two decades, Kevin Ezard and his a standard building method. The number of IT’S HAPPENING NOW FFrame Australia team have been completed and under-construction builds has Talking with builders, manufacturers and promoting the use of timber products for been steadily increasing, and with that has other industry voices for our TTN tall timber use beyond residential housing in Australia come an expansion in expertise in offsite special in the January edition, one thing at their annual events. This June’s Timber methods for builders and fabricators, and repeated from many sources was that Offsite Construction 2020 comes with a a growth in local materials supply. although mid-rise and tall timber buildings theme of ‘Timber & Technology. The Zero Couple this with the increasing public still represent only a small percentage of Carbon Future’, and more than ever, it has its demand for a low-carbon future and it’s clear completions, that percentage is now well finger on the pulse of where construction is we’re sitting on what should be a rising tide established and will continue to grow. moving in this country and internationally. that will lift many of the industry’s boats. Moreover, mass timber products and offsite Over the past five years, an industry-wide This year’s event brings together many of and panelised construction methods are effort, combined with bold investment from the people who have been at the forefront now industry standard. some of the country’s best builders, has of this change and looks to encourage, At the top end, this is readily apparent. seen tall and mid-rise timber construction inform and empower others – from Multiplex recently topped out its twin building
move from being a talking point to becoming designers to fabricators – to join them. development for La Trobe University’s $100 KEVIN EZARD WITH TEXT IN CONJUNCTION WOODSOLUTIONS. COURTESY PHOTO:
28 TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 www.timbertradernews.com
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million student accommodation project at its Bundoora campus. This project is the largest mass timber construction project currently underway in Victoria, with the entire development utilising a full cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glulam structure. Multiplex regional managing director Graham Cottam made an announcement on the occasion: “We are passionate about sustainable design technologies, so we are thrilled to utilise mass timber and be the largest new development in Victoria doing so. Student accommodation combines our skills in delivering quality residential developments with our experience in working in busy, live education environments.” The project is a showcase of the benefits of timber construction. The site is complex, in the middle of a busy university and designed to retain as many existing trees as possible. Using quick-to-erect mass timber and the rigorous scheduling that comes with prefabricated elements common in tall timber construction, Multiplex has minimised the time and disruption of the build at the same time as halving the carbon cost of the building itself, relative to a similar concrete structure. At the lower-scale end, it’s harder to get a clear picture, but multiple fabricators who have long embraced new wood products such as LVL and glulam are also moving into some degree of offsite construction, with wall and floor panels (both in engineered wood product and traditional timber) now commonplace. Suppliers such as Timberlink (see story page 16) are steadily increasing the amount of mass timber product on the market in full expectation of this trend to grow even faster in coming years. Above: Multiplex’s enormous student accommodation project at La Trobe University recently topped out. The entire development utilises a CLT and glulam structure. SPREADING THE WORD Two Frame Australia events ago, the biggest Prefabricated Building Systems, and complaint was not enough people knowing • 22502VIC. Delivery mode Diploma of how to work in the new methods, nor with These courses are Project Management for Prefabricated some mass timber products. building systems (Timber) Suppliers were some of the first to designed to address These courses are designed to address respond, with big names including Tilling emerging knowledge and skills gaps in Group, Hyne and Wesbeam providing emerging knowledge project management and onsite installation. engineering guidance and services to and skills gaps. Both have been cleverly designed to take designers and reaching out to fabricators and into account the needs of their audience, builders to familiarise them with materials offering online and blended learning modes and design needs. It’s been a great start, qualifications in prefabricated building of delivery, where students can complete but more is required industry-wide. systems (timber) that have been developed work online, and participate in masterclasses, Box Hill Institute is leading the way on the and accredited under the Victorian Workforce practical workshops and tutorials. training side. They’ll be at Timber Offsite Training Innovation Fund (WTIF): They’re aimed at the existing workforce in PHOTO: COURTESY WOODSOLUTIONS. TEXT IN CONJUNCTION WITH KEVIN EZARD WITH TEXT IN CONJUNCTION WOODSOLUTIONS. COURTESY PHOTO: PHOTO: COURTESY MULTIPLEX COURTESY PHOTO: Construction 2020 promoting two new state • 22501VIC Course in Onsite Installation of order to build and expand contractor
www.timbertradernews.com TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 29
TTN404_28-33_autobuild_Frame.indd 29 14/2/20 3:50 pm Randek RandekAd-A4-OUTLINES.pdf Ad-A4-OUTLINES.pdf 1 26/09/2016 1 26/09/2016 2:49:13 2:49:13 PM PM Randek Ad-A4-OUTLINES.pdf 1 26/09/2016 2:49:13 PM
Randek Ad-A4-OUTLINES.pdf 1 26/09/2016 2:49:13 PM
AUTOBUILD NEWS
Sinjen, Wood Solutions, Lendlease the Italian firm will have their comprehensive Designmake, Atelier Projects, Himmelzimmer, range of technologies on show. www. The prefabricated Carbonlite Design and Build, The Tilling Group, biesse.com/au/wood/ Rothoblaas, Standstruct and AMGC. Big River Group Innovation in timber and building market is Watson points out that the prefabricated floor building systems have led to this expected to grow building market within the construction Australian firm’s success in both its product industry is expected to grow from 3% to range and successful relationships with from 3% to 15% 15% by 2025. This will generate around developments. www.bigrivergroup.com.au InnovativeInnovative solutions solutions for for prefabricated prefabricated house house production production Innovative solutions for prefabricated house production 20,000 new jobs and $30 billion of growth. Bliss & Reels These prefab specialists Innovative solutions for prefabricated house production by 2025. Now is the time to put in place the basics we make panelisation accessible as part of their will need to accomplish this. supply of manufacturing machinery and automation from Australia, Sweden and Italy. capability in early contractor involvement, EXHIBITOR EDUCATION www.blissandreels.com.au transport and logistics, costing, codes and Hearing about Box Hill’s first intake last year Box Hill Institute Pioneering new timber standards and WHS. was a fascinating learning experience over construction education modules, the “The programs prepare the student with a break in the conference proceedings. institute will also be able to report on their the required skills and knowledge so that One of the great joys of the event is the first cohort of students (see Training, above). advantages of prefabricated building can be exhibition that takes place concurrently www.boxhill.edu.au achieved for both the client, design team outside the speaker venues. Not only are Braford/LignoLoc A showstopper at last and builder,” says Tony Watson, executive the businesses on the floor sector leading in year’s event, these collated wooden nails manager – business development their innovation, they also represent come in a range of sizes and are the perfect (apprenticeships and traineeships) at Box Hill. decades-worth of expertise. fastener for multiple timber products. www. Each course covers project management At the time of printing, 2020’s list of brafordindustries.com.au/lignoloc/ and installation of a range of building Current Partner Exhibitor Organisations was: Essetre Represented locally by Bliss & solutions including mass timber construction, Australian Framing Automation This Reels, Essetre manufactures CNC working light weight timber, panelised and modular newly established company represents centres for processing structural timber construction. Students of the course in Modular Building Automation (MBA) from elements, optimised for all inputs from light- OPEN / CLOSED WALL PANEL LINE FLOOR CASSETTE LINE onsite installation learn how to install CLT the UK and their timber framing machinery weight framing to CLT. www.essetre.com OPENOPEN / CLOSED / CLOSED WALL WALL PANEL PANEL LINE LINE FLOORFLOOR CASSETTE CASSETTE LINE LINE C and other timber systems. products in Australia and New Zealand. HOMAG/Weinmann The Homag GroupC C OPEN / CLOSED WALL PANEL LINE FLOOR CASSETTE LINE M There has been significant industry www.ausframe.net.au is a leading manufacturer of modern,C high-M M
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ExclusivelyExclusively represented represented by by Exclusively represented by Exclusively represented by PHOTO: COURTESY ATELIER PROJECTS ATELIER COURTESY PHOTO: PHOTOS: MICHAEL ELKIN PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTOS: PHOTOS: COURTESY MULTINAIL AND PETER TAYLOR; (BOTTOM IMAGE) JOSEPH BYFORD. JOSEPH IMAGE) (BOTTOM TAYLOR; AND PETER MULTINAIL COURTESY PHOTOS: ForFor further further information information please please call call 03 985003 9850 6666 6666 For further information please call 03 9850 6666 30 TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 www.timbertradernews.com For further informationor emailor email [email protected] please [email protected] call 03 9850 6666 or email [email protected] Randek Ad-A4-OUTLINES.pdf 1 26/09/2016 2:49:13 PM or email [email protected]
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enter the market without enormous investment. Distributed by Bliss & Reels in Australia. www.blissandreels.com.au Rothoblaas An Italian multinational and leading developer and provider of high- technology fixing and fastening solutions for the engineered wood construction sector, along with membranes and tapes for improved building performance in acoustics and moisture control. www.rothoblaas.com Rubner Holzbau Besides glulam wood, Rubner also produces prefabricated roof panels and walls, cross-laminated wood panels, wood and glass facades, building envelopes and complete wood building solutions. www.rubner.com SEMA Software The world‘s leading provider of software solutions and additional services in the fields of timber and stair design as well as for sheet metal work. Modular software design delivers a solution perfect for every user. www.sema-soft.de
prefabricated timber buildings, with a Forte, by Lendlease, was specialty in automation, to which Weinmann Australia’s first tall timber adds its materials expertise. www.homag- building using CLT. australia.com Housing Industry Association The national industry association for building professionals, supporting the Australian home building industry for more than 60 years. hia.com.au Hundegger Australasia State of the art solutions for processing light weight timbers and engineered wood, including cutting saws, panel processing and CNC machines, along with the most recent software technologies and robotic developments to meet customer’s future requirements. www.hundegger.de Intergrain/Cabots Suppliers and manufactures of indoor and outdoor timber coatings and finishes, as well as painting machines, maintenance products and other coating solutions. www.intergrain.com.au/ industrial/ LAP Lasers Tools for measurement and laser projection systems for true-to-scale alignment and positioning of objects during production and processing of parts made from composite materials. Distributed by Bliss & Reels in Australia. www. blissandreels.com.au Planet Ark – Make it Wood This leading environmental organisation has been promoting timber building and fittings for years as part of its twin campaigns for healthier environments and a low-carbon future. A combination of compelling research and innovative marketing is behind their success. makeitwood.org Randek World-leading prefab manufacturing equipment from Sweden that
is totally scalable, so small fabricators can PROJECTS ATELIER COURTESY FWPA. COURTESY PHOTOS:
32 TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 www.timbertradernews.com
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Siegware Australia An established supplier business for architectural innovations, with products from European and US manufacturers, specialising in window and door hardware, as well as silicones, CLT connectors, low VOC paint and more. www.siegware.com.au Würth Australia From its origins as a German company selling fasteners, screws and accessories, the now international firm is firmly ensconced in Australia and has added a series of service solutions to its range. www.wurth.com.au WoodSolutions Providing research, education and high-quality market support for timber products in Australia, WoodSolutions has spearheaded important initiatives such as the Mid-Rise Advisory Program. www.woodsolutions.com.au XLam Australia/NZ A key player in local CLT, and behind the first CLT plant in Australia, XLam runs one of the most technologically advanced CLT plants worldwide and offers a high-quality local product. www.xlam.co.nz
CONFERENCE PREVIEW The 2020 conference program is still being finalised, but in an evolution from past years. it will comprise four half-day themed sessions, each with a Speakers Topic session followed by parallel Building Project Panel sessions. Another change is that this year, delegates can register for any combination of half-day sessions, which is a boon for people only interested in one conference stream or with an inflexible workload. The Speaker sessions will be led by top international voices, along with highly knowledgeable local experts, each opening Above: LignoLoc wooden connectors will be one of the specialist timber building products on display at the exhibition running alongside conference proceedings. proceedings on four half-day themes. The first isBuilding design influences, looking at zero-carbon buildings, Passivhaus, Key participants in each project will value engineering, and building codes and provide presentations on their overall discussing how code requirements influence This year, delegates contribution to the project and explanation design and construction methodologies. of learning experiences and outcomes. Second is Construction productivity, can register for any Sessions will provide delegates with an with a focus on ECI collaboration, 3D understanding of typical issues to be modelling, digital data sharing and combination of half- confronted in design and construction of componentisation. This marriage of design, day sessions rather timber and wood building projects, with information and communication is key to the ample time for delegates to engage in group success of large timber projects and the than full days. discussion with well-informed presenters. profit of smaller ones. The preliminary list of projects selected Thirdly, the Manufacturing & technology includes: Latrobe University Melbourne, session will discuss DFMA (design for Each session includes time for questions to Melbourne Central CBD, The Bond Norwest manufacturing and assembly, modular speakers and audience discussion, which in Sydney, Stromlo Leisure Centre Canberra components, robotics and panelised previous years has been enlightening. and Adelaide Oval Hotel. production, looking at the enormous strides The Building Project Panel sessions will Timber & Technology – The Zero recently made in Australia in these fields. focus on building projects currently at Carbon Future (Timber Offsite The last session is Global wood building preliminary stage or under construction to Construction 2020 Conference and projects where exemplary buildings at the provide ‘real life’ examples of challenges Exhibition) is on Monday and Tuesday forefront of design and engineering will be experienced, and solutions developed during 15-16 June at Crown Promenade discussed, including their challenges and the process from design concept to Melbourne. For more, visit www. PHOTOS: COURTESY FWPA. COURTESY ATELIER PROJECTS ATELIER COURTESY FWPA. COURTESY PHOTOS: PHOTOS: COURTESY LIGNOLOC/BRADFORD INDUSTRIES COURTESY PHOTOS: innovations, along with hybrid solutions. manufacturing to on-site construction. timberoffsiteconstuction.com
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TI BE N INS
B A L E T et s get connected hysical lin s are essential to structures, and good engineering ma es all the difference.
hat does it mean to be connected A studs, bottom plates, jamb studs, lintels and With regard to frames that are built on Wstreet survey would invariably be full windowsills at openings, wind beams at site (stick frame , the approach to of associations to Linkedin, Facebook, voids etc. Unlike roof and fl oor systems, specifi cations is a bit hit-and-miss. On WhatsApp or myriad other social media design of these wall frame components can occasions, plans from architects or building forums. But, if you turn the clock back to the come from different sources depending on designers may include specifi cation on wall early digital age, connections couldn’t have which part of Australia one belongs to. frame components. In South Australia, happened without cables and wires that Engineers seldom provide specifi cation on where stick frame is predominant, there is required a physical link to establish them. wall plates, studs and their connections if the dependency on so-called estimators to Unfortunately, in the context of a wall building comes within the limitations of AS provide design solutions. A variety of frame, there is no wireless option (wouldn’t , which is the case with most domestic industry software and AS span tables it be nice It requires a ‘physical link’ in houses. And even when they do specify, are adopted for this purpose, without much the form of fasteners and brackets to often it tends to be of a generic nature ( Wall emphasis on connections. adequately tie-down a timber wall frame. frames and tie-down to AS . The wall Let’s look at current building practices in the frame manufacturer then becomes the fall A S IN T E A ET domestic market, understand what gaps back option for design of pre-fabricated Like machines, the wall frames cannot exist and see how we can achieve a ‘well- frames, where they depend on software function without connections being fully connected’ and compliant wall frame. supplied by their respective nailplating secured and in the case of a wall frame it companies. These software packages may be means the load path must be followed DESI N O ESS good detailing tools but do not necessarily through from the top plate level to the Wall frames are made up of several design all timber components and their ground. Unfortunately, as discussed above, individual components top plates, common associated connections. designers don’t always give the necessary attention to connections which is exacerbated
MEYER WALL PLATE TO STUD TIE-DOWN by the absence of a ‘one stop shop’ software SELECTION TABLES solution in the market that can satisfactorily TABLE 1- SHEET ROOFS (40 kg/m2) IN N2 WIND REGION (2/35 top plate & 1/35 bottom plate) Design Capacity (kN) for JD5 provide tie-down specifi cation. Hence, wall Wind Zone = N2N2N2 SDWS SCREW: Legend 2/35 top plate 1/35 bottom plate Nominal Fixing as per AS1684 → N 0.5 0.5 Table 9.4 frames may be delivered to site with little or Roof Material = SHEETSHEETSHEET (40 kg/m2) 1/100mm SDWS screw → SDWS224 2.0 3.8 Active Top Plate = 90x35 Double 1/125mm SDWS screw → SDWS225 3.8 4.6 Active no information on connections, rendering Bottom Plate = 90x35 Single 1/150mm SDWS screw → SDWS226 4.6 4.6 Active 2/100mm SDWS screws → 2/SDWS224 4.1 7.7 Inactive them non-compliant and leaving specifi cation Overhang = 600 mm 2/125mm SDWS screws → 2/SDWS225 7.6 9.3 Active Joint Group = JD5 2/150mm SDWS screws → 2/SDWS226 9.3 9.3 Active A special connector is required → N/A -- of these to the builder or installer. TOP PLATE TO STUD TIE-DOWN SPACING It must be noted that nominal fi xing as RLW 450 600 900 1200 1350 1800 per Table . of AS .2 can be used in 1000 N SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 2000 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS225 certain cases for houses in low wind zones 3000 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS225 SDWS225 SDWS225 4000 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS225 SDWS225 SDWS225 2/SDWS225 (N /N2 . This relates to all stud and wall 5000 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS225 SDWS226 SDWS226 2/SDWS225 6000 SDWS224 SDWS225 SDWS225 SDWS226 2/SDWS225 2/SDWS225 plate tie downs on houses with a tile roof, 7000 SDWS224 SDWS225 SDWS226 2/SDWS225 2/SDWS225 2/SDWS226 and in lower-storey frames with tile or sheet 8000 SDWS225 SDWS225 SDWS226 2/SDWS225 2/SDWS225 2/SDWS226 roofs. Table (opposite gives examples of STUD TO BOTTOM PLATE TIE-DOWN SPACING scenarios that do not require specifi c RLW 450 600 900 1200 1350 1800 connections to resist uplift 1000 N N SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 . 2000 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 3000 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 4000 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 WELL ONNE TED 5000 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS225 6000 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS225 2/SDWS225 Having acknowledged the dearth of simple 7000 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS225 2/SDWS225 2/SDWS225 software solutions, it becomes a huge 8000 SDWS224 SDWS224 SDWS224 2/SDWS225 2/SDWS225 2/SDWS225 Note: (1) The Joint Group typically reflects the joint group of the stud. Use JD5 for MGP10, unless the timber is heart excluded. challenge for a non-engineer to specify wall (2) The bottom plate tie-down requirement is taken as 80% of top plate requirement, as per AS1684. (3) The bottom plate should be designed to comply with selected tie-down spacing, unless anchored at the same location. frame tie-downs. Chapter in AS (4) Tie-downs of T e top and bottom eyer plates at esign concentrated loadTool, points (fromabo e girder trusses le t, or jamb deli ers studs) will require ustomised special designs. solutions to wall rame manu a turers
devotes more than 0 pages on Fixings TIMBER MEYER COURTESY PHOTO: suggested wall rame fi ing, rig t . Leading su liersTable No.are in reasingly 1 o ering similar ser i es.
EFFECTIVE THREAD PENETRATION Screw length = 102 127 152 3 TIMBERThread length TRADER = 60 NEWS70 / 70 MARCH 2020 www.timbertradernews.com 1/35 35 60 70 70 1/45 45 57 70 70 2/35 70 32 57 70 2/45 90 12 37 62
Calculations: Top plate Bottom plate Wind Zone = N2 Thickness 2/35 1/35
Compiled by AAL/Pryda TTN404_34-35_timber noggins.indd 34 October 2015 14/2/20 9:14 am AUTOBUILD NEWS
and Tie-down design”, which include tie- Wind classification down details for wall frames and also how Connections to assess the tie-down requirement. Single or N1 N2 N3 Although the process is clearly outlined upper storey Tile roof Sheet roof Tile roof Sheet roof Tile roof Sheet roof through a flow chart in the standard (Fig 9.4), as with all processes, unless you are Wall plates to stud NSNSSS using it constantly it is time-consuming to achieve the final outcome and can be prone Bottom plate to NNNSSS to errors. So where to next? slab or floor frame Multiple suppliers, including Meyer Lintels to wall NSNSSS Timber, now have teams of engineers who frame have developed tools to offer customised solutions to wall frame manufacturers, to Table 1: N= nominal (minimum) connection only. Refer Table 9.4 is AS 1684.2 for details. ensure they deliver a fully compliant wall S= specific connection. frame to site. This can include fixings from top plate to stud, stud to bottom plate, amenity and sustainability in the design and focusing on areas that hitherto have been bottom plate to slab or sub-floor, jamb studs, construction of new buildings in Australia. given little attention. A well-connected wall etc. Talk with your main suppliers or Timber wall frames are very much part of frame is certainly one such area that is potential suppliers about what they offer – the overall building work and its compliance gaining increased focus. see Figure 1 for an example of the Meyer is dependent on how well the minimum So, why wait? Sometimes we still need Design Tool (image opposite). design requirements are met. Given the physical links in our wireless world. Let’s get recent experiences with non-compliant connected – engineers and manufacturers – MEETING CODES products and the cladding saga, building and deal with compliance issues head-on! All building work must comply with the authorities across Australia have started to Building Code of Australia (BCA), which is tighten the screws (pardon the pun) on contained within the National Construction matters related to non-compliance. There is Code (NCC) and provides the minimum also an increased scrutiny on building necessary requirements for safety, health, surveyors, who are in turn responding by
For more information on this topic, contact Afzal Laphir via email at [email protected]
Productivity Gains = Increased profits
Equipment can be used with your choice of nail supplier. However, Framequip recommends and prefers Airco/Senco fastening tools and fasteners. View the youtube links below: Nogg master https://youtu.be/vU1PkXUBQGo Nogg nailer https://youtu.be/rDdzhch1FI0 Auto nailer https://youtu.be/tLZptX1PBYU
Framequip Autonailers, Nog Nailers, component nailer, material transfer systems and manual framing machines For more information contact Rob Amour p: 0423 732 275 e: [email protected] w: framequip.com.au “We support you!” PHOTO: COURTESY MEYER TIMBER MEYER COURTESY PHOTO: GOLD SPONSORS
www.timbertradernews.com TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 35
TTN404_34-35_timber noggins.indd 35 14/2/20 8:59 am SILVER SPONSORS
BRONZE SPONSORS
COMBi iiFT LLIIFFTTIINNGG IINNNNOOVVAATT II O N
AustAustralasiaralasia
®®
For a full list of the conditions of membership and a downloadable application form visit: www. ftmanews.com B OU TBROUGHT TO YOU OU BY B “We support you!”
GOLD SPONSORS
“We support you!” “We support you!” “We support you!” FTMA GOLD SPONSORSGOLD SPONSORS NEWSLETTER
with Kersten Gentle
SIL ER SPONSORS
SIL ER SPONSORS SIL ER SPONSORSSIL ER SPONSORS Reaching out In a very tough time, many stalwarts of the timber industry are out there helping those who need it.
irstly I would like to convene our deepest parents’ minds with the education year Fsympathy to those who have lost loved about to start. ones during the fires, communities impacted Through the Rotary Cub of Appin Park BRON E SPONSORS by the fires and our heartfelt thank you to Wangaratta and the Rotary District 9790 – a those involved in fighting the fires. bushfire relief project that has support of I have no doubt many FTMA members other service clubs – Alpine Truss managing have been helping out in different areas, but director George Prothero made the donation BRON E SPONSORSBRON E SPONSORS I thought I would highlight just a few plants and encourages other local businesses to iiFT that I know first-hand have being doing their give what they can to help people who are COCOCOMMBii iFT part to help. doing it tough. LLILIFIFFTTTIIINNNGG IIINNNNOOOVVVAAATTTI OII ONN A lot of the support will go to the hardest iiFT HIGH COUNTRY TRUSS & FRAMES hit areas at Corryong and surrounding iiFT COCOMBi iiFT David and Elizabeth van der Plaat from High towns, aiding people who have been COCOMBi COCOLLIIFFTTIINNMGG IINNBNNOOiVVAATT II O N LLIIFFTTIINNGG IINNNNOOVVAATT II O N LLIIFFTTIINNGG IINNNNOOVVAATT II O N Country Truss & Frames have been helping impacted to varying degrees. transport feed to multiple locations on the “I saw in the news how bad these people
Australasia NSW South Coast. are doing it, and even before that with the AustAustralasiaralasia They have transported hay on their trucks, drought, so I had in mind I was going to do picking it up from Junee and delivering to something anyway” Mr Prothero said.
AustAustralasiaralasia Cobargo and Nelligen near Bateman’s Bay, “Hopefully it might start some bigger AustAustralasiaralasia AustAustralasiaralasia to name but a few locations. donations around the area. I wanted to make
Cooma has become a distribution Centre the donation through Rotary to make sure it COURTESY ALPINE TRUSS/FTMA PHOTOS: for fodder on the South Coast so, as David does go to the people who really need it”. and Elizabeth had the trucks, they thought Alpine Truss is also donating all of its this would be a great way to contribute to trucks to cart hay up to drought and fire- the efforts – along with the army who have affected areas. also set up in Cooma. Visit the FTMA News Worthy Fundraising ®® Options link (www.ftmanews.com/worthy- ALPINE TRUSS CHIPS IN $15K fundraising-options/) for information on Steve Kelly of the ran how you can donate to this good cause. For a full list of the®® conditions of Wangaratta Chronicle ®® ®® a story on Friday 17 January on the work membership and a downloadable For aapplication full list of the form conditions visit: of being done by the North East Rotary clubs DAHLSENS BAIRNSDALE For a full list of the conditionsFor aapplication full of list of the form conditions visit: of membership and a downloadable and the amazing donation from local firm The team at Dahlsens – which has its roots membership and a downloadablemembership and a downloadable www.www.ftmanews.comapplicationftmanew form visit:s.com Alpine Truss, which I have extracted in Gippsland – has felt this devastation hard application form visit: application form visit: www.ftmanews.com information from below: with so many of its East Gippsland, North www.www.ftmanews.comftmanewwww.www.ftmanews.comBROUGHTBRs.cOUGHTomftm anewTO YOUYOUs.c BY omBY Alpine Truss Wangaratta has donated Victorian and southern New South Wales BROUGHTBROUGHT TO YOUYOU BY BY $15,000 to assist with bushfire recovery in team members and customers experiencing BROUGHTBROUGHT TO YOUYOUBROUGHTBR OUGHTBY BY TO YOUYOU BY BY North East Victoria, some of which will go the terror of the fires firsthand. The business towards stationery packs to help children and its team members have pooled their get back to school. resources with councils, recovery Basic necessities such as the back to organisations, farmers and like-minded truck school packs for children will take a load off owners to make any difference they could.
36 TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 www.timbertradernews.com
TTN404_36-37_FTMA newsletter.indd 36 14/2/20 9:15 am AUTOBUILD NEWS
Alpine Truss is just one of the companies using their truck fleet for aid. Inset: The Alpine Truss team.
When the fires struck, truckloads of generous relief donations, gifted by strangers far and wide, started coming.
When the fires struck, truckloads upon Dalmahoy Street, Bairnsdale to create floor primarily into Bairnsdale and Corryong to truckloads of generous relief donations, space for water, toiletries, food, pet food, farmers in desperate need. gifted by strangers far and wide, started clothing and more. That shed of emergency I congratulate all involved and take my hat making their way down the line to East supplies has been emptied time and time off to the resilience of our industry. There Gippsland. The East Gippsland Council again. They’ve pulled their delivery trucks out will be a huge job in front of us to salvage desperately needed a place to hold the of rotation wherever they could to drop food the burnt timber and I have no doubt a volumes of emergency supplies. So, into impacted communities as the roads united industry will find the best solution to Dahlsens arranged a team of many to clear have opened. Their trucks have carted hay maximise the resource recovery.
PHOTOS: COURTESY ALPINE TRUSS/FTMA PHOTOS: out their entire former retail shed at from western Victoria and southern NSW Kersten Gentle
For more information contact FTMA on 0418 226 242 or via email at [email protected]
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www.timbertradernews.com TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 37
TTN404_36-37_FTMA newsletter.indd 37 14/2/20 9:16 am AUTOBUILD NEWS
TRUSS TALK
with Paul Davis Security matters Decks and balustrades are high-risk items where good engineering counts.
oney – That’s What I Want” is a song version of Money – That’s What I Want is you are supplying the balustrade material “M that has been covered by many playing loudly. Someone gets their gear off that becomes a really, really, really, very, bands since it was Motown’s first hit in in the backyard and a crowd of young adults very, very, strong recommendation. 1960. In its latest incarnation, it’s the theme lean over the handrail to get a look. The In fact, that connection is very tricky to track to Crazy Rich Asians. balustrade’s post-to-deck fixing gives way, design. The relevant Australian standard It is also the custom ringtone on my with terrible consequences. prescribes the loads on the handrail. mobile when my wife calls. Fortunately, This is not just a hypothetical scenario. Once they are applied with at least the she gets the joke. This kind of failure has happened and will 1m leverage of a balustrade post, the forces My phone has the Flying Lizards version. continue to happen. The failure of in closely spaced fixings to the deck They were an experimental English new balustrades and balustrade-post fixings to structure are very large indeed. wave band, formed in 1976. I don’t know decks come in second (after deck fixings to I can tell you now that post fixings from that anyone in the band could actually sing, walls) as the most common part of a house steel post base bracket down to the decking but nonetheless their particular version of structure that will kill someone. All that only will not work. Maybe heavy screws to a “Money – That’s What I Want” is quirky and engineering that goes into your trusses and solid deck substructure will work – but it catchy. I distinctly remember the Hot Gossip wall frames does the job – they are very needs design and detailing. dancers writhing to it on the Kenny Everett safe and reliable. But the grey zone of A few nails through the timber balustrade Video Show when I was about 14. And, as responsibility for the connections of posts into the sides of deck joists doesn’t an aside, I remember that it was about then, balustrade post to deck creates a can work either. Sometimes, if the deck timbers as a hormonal teenager, that the penny of killer worms. are big enough, I have successfully dropped for me as to how wonderful and So, in the scenario described above, with managed to squeeze enough batten screws alluring the female form is! several suppliers and someone else who or bolts into the connection. But even then, Some of you are supplying timber deck does the fixings, who owns the fixing the deck joist has to project past the outside material along with your trusses and frames design? If someone does die, then you can face of the post to stop the connection because, to paraphrase the song, “we want be sure that everyone will be in the sights splitting out of the joist end grain. Other money, we want lots of money, in fact, we of the lawyers. times there is just no way to get a simple want so much money. Just give us money.” Right now, there is an inquiry going on timber to timber connection to work. In last month’s article I talked about the into the Grenfell fire disaster in the UK. I know I have a vested interest in this, connection of timber decks to house walls Component suppliers there are being but I can’t see how that balustrade post- and how that has all become very cross-examined. And every party except deck connection can be properly designed problematic under recent changes to the the local council are blaming everyone else by anyone other than an engineer. So, National Construction Code. Moving from and trying to protect themselves. Clearly you should consider passing on a there, let’s look at the connection of some, or many, of their defences will not recommendation of a local engineer to balustrade posts to decks. be successful. your client for that design if you supply Even if you are not supplying the None of us want to be in that sort of deck material. balustrades, consider this scenario: you position. So, even if you are not supplying You might think that I am just saying this supply the deck timbers and the balustrade balustrading but do supply deck framing, I because it’s Money – That’s What I Want. structure comes from another supplier. strongly recommend that you make it very But better the money goes to engineers to A few years pass and then there’s a busy, clear that the connection must be designed prevent a problem than to the lawyers to drunken 21st party. Charli XCX’s 2014 by an appropriately qualified person. And, if pick over the bones of a disaster.
Paul Davis is an independent structural engineer managing his own consulting firm Project X Solutions Pty Ltd. The views in this column are Paul’s and do not reflect the opinions of TimberTrader News. Phone: 02 4576 1555 | Email: [email protected]
38 TIMBER TRADER NEWS / MARCH 2020 www.timbertradernews.com
TTN404_38_Truss talk.indd 38 14/2/20 9:18 am TTN400_046_Truss talk.indd 47 10/10/19 11:05 am TTN400_046_TrussTTN404_38_Truss talk.indd talk.indd 39 47 10/10/1914/2/20 11:05 9:19 amam TURN TO THE TURBO-DRIVE CUT. MILL. PRINT. DRILL.
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TTN404_38_TrussHundegger_398_OctoberTTN400_046_TrussTTN402_034_Truss talk.indd talk.indd 2019.indd 40 4836 1 10/10/196/12/1914/2/205/8/19 12:2511:05 2:029:19 pmampmam