| | | | July 2023
Dear Guest,
Welcome to the this edition of the Australian Forest Contractors Association Newsletter The Log!
In this issue, we bring you the latest updates and insights from the forest contracting industry and everything AFCA. Stay informed about important developments, industry events, and initiatives that directly impact your business.
We hope you find this newsletter informative and engaging. As the Australian Forest Contractors Association, we are committed to serving and advocating for the interests of our members.
Stay connected, stay informed, and stay ahead with the Australian Forest Contractors Association.
Happy reading!
| | IN THIS EDITION OF THE LOG: | | | | | | Hall of Fame Honours a Family Affair! | | It doesn't happen often that two members from the same family are inducted into the Australian Forest Contractors Hall of Fame, but it does happen.Just ask the Cox family in Legana, Tasmania, just north of Launceston.
Graeme was inducted some time ago, and more recently his son Steven Cox was honoured at a lunch in Tasmania to celebrate the milestone to make up for his inability to attend the AFCA dinner in Traralgon last year. Graeme's daughter Julie Cox-McKinnon says the family is proud of both of them. "Dad's amazing. And as a family we are just so proud of them. I am so proud of dad for sticking with it and for making decisions along the way that just benefit Cox logging", she said.
Cox Logging, as it now is, has always been a 'small' business running three or four staff. "I think that's helped us get through all the hard times as well", Julie said. "Dad's a very, very hard worker doing six and seven days, some weeks. And Steven is too. He's a very hard worker too; he's got the ethic, and the values his dad does. He grew up with dad with Cox logging and being in the logging industry," she said. Julie said Steven was driving a skidder from a very young age did falling for around nine years from when he was 17. "He had a couple of accidents so we're lucky we still got him," she said. "But he's very multi skilled. And he does everything and anything mechanical to driving the machines." Julie said that when Cox Logging was formed AFCA helped set up the partnership including all the codes and regulations and standards. "They were really wonderful and they've been wonderful ever since and they give great information," she said. "We'd like to be involved with AFCA more but we can only do what we can do."
| | | | | | AFCA collaborates with QTA for benefit of its members | | We are excited to announce a significant partnership between AFCA and the Queensland Trucking Association (QTA) to enhance the benefits and support for our members. This collaboration will provide valuable services in Human Resources (HR) and Industrial Relations (IR).
Through our partnership with QTA, AFCA Forest, Civil, and Silviculture Contractor members will receive complimentary HR and IR advice from a qualified specialist. The services available include assistance with national employment standards, employment law, awards and contracts, performance management, Fair Work Commission matters, and more. Members will also have access to exclusive invitations to QTA employer forum meetings, member prices for QTA events, and timely alerts on industrial and employment issues.
Additionally, QTA will offer fee-for-service options at a nominated hourly rate to meet individual needs. These services encompass representation in tribunals, document review and preparation, drafting and negotiation of agreements and contracts, workplace support, and educational workshops.
We believe this partnership will greatly benefit our members, providing them with valuable resources and support in navigating HR and IR matters. It reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional value and strengthening industry representation.
For further information or to access these services, please email office@afca.asn.au. We encourage all our Forest, Civil, and Silviculture Contractor members to take advantage of this opportunity.
Thank you for your continued support and membership with AFCA. We remain dedicated to serving you and advocating for your success in the industry.
| | | | | | AFCA's NHVR Roadshow Sessions Empower Industry with Chain of Responsibility Insights | | The Australian Forest Contractors Association (AFCA), in collaboration with the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR), successfully conducted a series of information sessions as part of the NHVR Roadshow across various locations in Australia. | | | |
These sessions focused on the Log Haulage Code of Practice (LHCoP) and Mass Management, providing valuable insights into Chain of Responsibility (CoR) and addressing industry-specific challenges.
Jennifer Rotili of NHVR made an exceptional presentation, where she skillfully unraveled the complexities of CoR, the Code of Practice, and Mass Management. Participants were engaged in insightful discussions during and after the sessions, highlighting the value and relevance of the information shared.
| | The Melbourne session deserves a special mention, with the Marsh team providing an excellent venue for fostering productive discussions and knowledge exchange. AFCA extends its gratitude to the Marsh team for their support and contribution to the success of the session. | | | |
It is worth noting that the NHVR has recently released the final draft of the LHCoP, which was originally developed and submitted by the industry in 2021 with funding received from the Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA). Since then, the NHVR has made several revisions to the document, incorporating feedback and refining its structure. AFCA has actively collaborated with the NHVR to navigate these changes and understand their implications for the supply chain.
AFCA encourages its members to participate in the Master Code review, which is currently open for consultation until Monday, July 31, 2023. Should members express interest, AFCA is ready to provide a submission on their behalf.
Feedback and comments can also be submitted through the NHVR website by clicking below.
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AFCA also welcomes any feedback from attendees regarding session modifications to enhance understanding across the industry. If there are specific questions or concerns to be addressed, AFCA invites members to share them, as they will be relayed to the NHVR team.
The NHVR Roadshow sessions have played a vital role in fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and industry engagement. AFCA remains committed to supporting its members and working closely with the NHVR to address the unique challenges faced by the forest contracting industry.
| | Together, AFCA and the NHVR continue to drive positive change and ensure the effective implementation of regulatory frameworks that uphold safety, efficiency, and sustainability within the heavy vehicle sector. To view Jennifer's presentation please click below.
| | | | | | | | | | Join us AFCA's AGM, Luncheon, Conference for a Glimpse into the Future of Forestry | |
The Australian Forestry and Contractors Association (AFCA) will be hosting its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Thursday, 16th November 2023, in Albury, NSW. This year's AGM will be followed by an engaging AFCA Members luncheon and conference, focusing on the future of forestry and the role of technology in shaping our industry.
The event promises to be a remarkable opportunity for forestry professionals, industry leaders, and enthusiasts to come together and explore the potential that lies ahead. With a line-up of esteemed guest speakers, we aim to foster insightful discussions on various topics relevant to the industry's future landscape.
During the luncheon, you'll have the chance to enjoy a three-course meal while listening to captivating talks from industry experts. The guest speakers will delve into a wide range of subjects, including the future of forestry, emerging skills and training requirements, the sustainable management of residue, advancements in battery technologies, the potential of hydrogen as an energy source, and much more. This comprehensive agenda ensures that attendees will gain valuable insights into the latest trends and developments shaping the forestry sector.
We will be providing more information in the coming months so be sure to keep an eye out for updates on the event's schedule, the names of our esteemed guest speakers, and other exciting announcements.
Don't miss out on networking with like-minded professionals, engaging in thought-provoking discussions, and gaining valuable industry knowledge. It's the perfect occasion to connect, collaborate, and collectively envision the future of forestry.
As an AFCA member, you have the exclusive opportunity to be a part of this highly anticipated event and if you aren't already a member feel free to sign up today and join us on not only at this fantastic event but by becoming a part of the collective voice for the forest industry.
Tickets for the AGM, luncheon, and conference will be available for purchase starting from 1st September 2023, so mark your calendars!
Stay tuned for further updates and get ready to be inspired by the possibilities that lie ahead. For more information and updates keep an eye out on our website - link below:
| | | | | | | | | | ForestFit Training and Certification opportunity for AFCA members | | To support businesses in achieving Certification, businesses that have paid for one of their leaders to undertake ForestFit Training will have the cost deducted from the Initial Certification fee. Please contact the ForestFit team to discuss. | | The ForestFit Training comprises four industry endorsed modules specifically designed to cover the breadth of knowledge areas required by small and medium sized business owners. To support businesses in achieving Certification, businesses that have paid for one of their leaders to
| | | | undertake ForestFit Training will have the cost deducted from the Initial Certification fee. Please contact the ForestFit team to discuss. This initiative recognises the importance of these individuals in the decision making process within their organisations.
The training materials are aligned to the ForestFit Certification Standards providing the necessary support for businesses to successfully complete certification.
Dionne Olsen, Project Manager for ForestFit says, “AFCA understands the financial commitment involved, particularly for smaller businesses so allocating a portion of this fee to training ensures that businesses can access additional support without incurring extra costs.”
Just click the button below to find out more about the ForestFit or contact the ForestFit team. | | | | | | | | | | | | Professional Freight Task Management Program | |
Following the resounding success of our Professional Ownership & Driver Wellbeing Program (PODW), the Australian Forest Contractors Association (AFCA) is thrilled to respond to popular demand with this new initiative.
'Professional Freight Task Management' goes beyond the scope of PODW and now incorporates the renowned 'Rollover' Program. Catering for drivers and loaders of all industries not only forestry this comprehensive training package has been meticulously designed to promote 'best practice' not only within the transport industry but also across various non-transport sectors.
We have once again collaborated with industry experts Alan Pincott from ATSSS- Australian Trucking Safety Services & Solutions and Kirstin Pincott from KJ Training & Consulting to present this groundbreaking program.
With an emphasis on safety, efficiency, and industry-wide excellence, this program is set to revolutionise the way freight tasks are managed. It equips professionals with the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to navigate the complexities of the freight industry while prioritizing the well-being of drivers.
By combining the expertise of Alan Pincott and Kirstin Pincott, this program offers a holistic approach to freight management. Their extensive experience and dedication to safety will ensure that participants gain invaluable insights and practical strategies to enhance their operations.
We invite all industry professionals, both within and outside the transport sector, to join us in embracing this cutting-edge training opportunity. Together, we can foster a culture of continuous improvement and set new standards for excellence in our respective industries.
Should you wish to book an in-house session for your company this can also be arranged just click the button below to enquire.
2023 SESSIONS SCHEDULE - EOI now being taken for 2024 | | | Aug 23 | Sept 23 | Oct 23 | 9 Aug - Hobart, TAS 10 Aug - Launceston, TAS 11 Aug - Burnie, TAS 15 Aug - Beerburrum, Qld 16 Aug - Maryborough, Qld 17 Aug - Gladston, Qld 18 Aug - Cairns, Qld | 18 Sept - Barham, NSW 19 Sept - Tumut, NSW 20 Sept - Oberon, NSW 21 Sept - Coffs Harbour, NSW 28 Sept - Orbost, Vic 29 Sept - Rosedale, Vic | 3 Oct - Donnybrook, WA 4 Oct - Manjimup, WA 5 Oct - Albany, WA 11 Oct - Mount Gambier, SA 12 Oct - Hamilton, VIC 13 Oct - Portland, VIC 18 Oct - Hahndorf, SA |
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Don't miss the chance to be part of this transformative program that will shape the future of freight task management.
Cost per person: - AFCA Members $170
- Nonmembers $190
For further information please click the button below: and any queries don't hesitate to contact us at any time. | | | | | | | | New AFCA Membership for Mills, Growers, Processors & Firewood Contractors
| | At the Australian Forest Contractors Association (AFCA), we are dedicated to fostering strong partnerships with our members, industry sectors, and all levels of government. Our primary goal is to provide a value-add advantage for our members through meaningful collaboration and advocacy. | | | | Our membership base now comprises a diverse range of professionals involved in various aspects of the forest industry, including silviculture - planting & spraying, harvesting, haulage, civil works such as roading, growers, managers, mills and processors. By including the additional industries and categories listed below, AFCA aims to encompass the entire forest industry and promote its sustainability and prosperity:- AFFILIATE - Industry organisations, retired workers and individuals working in the Forest Industry
- SUBCONTRACTOR - Subcontractors who subcontract to Forest contractors
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SUPPORTER - Growers, Managers, Mills and Processors SILVICULTURE CONTRACTOR - Silviculture contractors
CIVIL CONTRACTOR - Civil contractors FIREWOOD CONTRACTORS - Firewood contractors supplying commercial firewood
By representing their interests, AFCA ensures that members, the forest industry, supply chain, and governments are well-informed about the latest developments and best practices for a sustainable and prosperous forest industry.
AFCA engages with government, industry stakeholders and the community to represent the interests of our members. We play an important role in ensuring members, the forest industry, supply chain and governments are aware of developments and best practices for a viable forest industry and future. - Industry Dinners -invitations to regular AFCA Industry Dinners, providing opportunities to connect with key stakeholders, industry leaders, and fellow supporters. Additionally, you will receive invitations to AFCA's prestigious Annual Dinner and Hall of Fame bi-annual event, where you can network with influential members of the forest growing community.
- Social Media - As a Supporters member, you will receive an AFCA Member business profile per annum, showcasing your commitment to the industry on AFCA's social media platforms. This increased visibility can lead to enhanced networking opportunities and exposure for your business.
- The Log Newsletter - Enjoy a monthly subscription to "The Log," AFCA's newsletter publication, delivered straight to your inbox. Stay up to date with industry news, trends, research findings, and member spotlights, ensuring you remain informed and connected.
- Webinars & Podcasts - Gain access to AFCA's Webinar Series, featuring informative and educational sessions on topics relevant to the forest growing industry. Participate in live webinars and access recorded sessions, expanding your knowledge and expertise. You will also have the opportunity to engage with AFCA's podcast content, offering further insights and discussions.
- Industry Support - become part of a collective voice and representation advocating for the forest growing industry. AFCA provides support and representation on issues affecting the industry's viability and future, ensuring your interests are protected.
- Sponsor Access - Enjoy the benefits of connection, discounts, and advice from AFCA's sponsors. Tap into the expertise of industry-leading organisations, leveraging their support and guidance to further your professional endeavors.
- Information and Government Advocacy - Stay informed with relevant and up-to-date information regarding the forest growing industry and AFCA's activities. AFCA provides advice, mediation, and lobbying to government bodies and departments on issues affecting the industry, advocating for positive change on behalf of its members.
- Program Participation - gain access to AFCA projects and participation opportunities, including trials and research initiatives. Contribute to the development and advancement of the industry by actively engaging in these programs.
- Promotion and Networking - AFCA ensures continued active promotion of the forest growing industry, highlighting its value, sustainability, and demand. As a Supporters member, you can build your industry network by connecting with other members, fostering collaborations, and exploring new business opportunities.
- Business Assistance - AFCA provides support to its members in the promotion and development of new businesses. Benefit from resources, guidance, and assistance to help your business thrive within the forest growing industry.
| | FOREST CONTRACTOR Contractors with less than
100K
Production Tonnes/Annum | FOREST CONTRACTOR Contractors with between 100K-250K Production Tonnes/Annum | FOREST CONTRACTOR Contractors with between 250K-500K Production Tonnes/Annum | FOREST CONTRACTOR Contractors with greater than 500K Production Tonnes/Annum | SUBCONTRACTOR Subcontractors who subcontract to Forest contractors | AFFILIATE Industry organisations, retired workers and individuals working in the Forest Industry | SILVICULTURE CONTRACTOR Silviculture contractors up to 500K Revenue/Annum | SILVICULTURE CONTRACTOR Silviculture contractors up to 500K Revenue/Annum | CIVIL CONTRACTOR Civil contractors
| Co-operative Group membership of Forest industry | Supporter Growers, Managers, Mills and Processors |
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| | | | | | | | Government closure of native forest harvesting – the spin and the facts | | The attached article by John Cameron available by clicking the button below, discusses the closure of native forest harvesting by the Andrews Government in Victoria, Australia. Mr Cameron criticizes the government's spin and presents what they believe are the facts.
According to the author, the government's announcement to transition away from native timber logging by January 2024, instead of 2030 as previously planned, has led people to believe that transitioning to plantations is feasible and beneficial for all. However, the author argues that the government's plan is unrealistic and will have adverse consequences.
John points out that the annual harvest area of native forests is only 0.04% of the total public native forest area, and the majority of the forest is reserved for conservation. They argue that the government's plan to replace the timber supply from native forests with plantations is inadequate. The recent loss of plantation area and the underfunding of the government's plantation plan are seen as further evidence of the plan's shortcomings.
The article highlights the socioeconomic impacts of reduced native forest supply, including job losses and a decline in regional economic output. The $200 million transition package provided by the government is criticized as insufficient to support workers and affected communities.
The author also raises concerns about the environmental and geopolitical implications of the government's decision. They argue that closing the native forest timber industry will lead to increased imports of timber from countries with poor environmental and human rights records, such as Russia and China. The use of less sustainable building materials, such as concrete and steel, is predicted as a consequence.
Overall, the John Cameron presents a critical perspective on the government's closure of native forest harvesting, emphasizing the potential negative impacts on rural communities, the economy, and the environment. | | | | | | | | Costs of HVNL fines and access permits increasing | | The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has announced several cost increases in access permit fees, work diaries, and fines as part of the Heavy Vehicle National Law penalties. These changes will come into effect starting July 1, 2023. Under the updated regulations, fines and penalties for violations of the Heavy Vehicle National Law will see an increase. For instance, the infringement fine for a driver of a fatigue-regulated heavy vehicle found without a work diary will rise from $711 to $758.
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Access permit fees will also undergo a slight increase. The fees for Class 1, 2, or 3 access permit applications and HML (Higher Mass Limits) permit applications will rise from $78 to $83. Additionally, the cost of a National Driver Work Diary will increase from $26 to $28.
In accordance with the Consumer Price Index (CPI), fees for the National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme modules will also see an adjustment.
The detailed fee schedule can be accessed on the NHVR website, providing a comprehensive breakdown of the updated fees. Similarly, the NHVR penalty and fine schedule is available for reference to understand the revised penalties for non-compliance.
These adjustments in fees and penalties by the NHVR aim to ensure regulatory compliance, manage costs associated with permit applications and work diaries, and maintain consistency with inflation.
For further information and to view the updated fee schedule CLICK HERE. To understand the revised penalties and fines, please refer to the NHVR penalty and fine schedule, which is available on their website as well by CLICKING HERE.
| | | | | | Fair Work Commission (Commission) increased National Minimum Wage & award minimum wages | |
The Fair Work Commission has announced its decision on the Annual Wage Review, which took effect from July 1, 2023.
National Minimum Wage: The National Minimum Wage, which applies to individuals not covered by an Enterprise Agreement (EA) or Modern Awards, will be increased by 5.75%. The new national minimum wage will be $882.80 per week or $23.23 per hour.
Modern Awards: The rates of pay specified in Modern Awards will also be increased by 5.75%.
These changes will impact various industry awards, including the Pastoral, Horticulture, and Shearing Award, among others. Further analysis of the decision and the draft determinations for the increased Modern Awards will be provided as soon as possible.
It's important for employers and employees to be aware of these changes and ensure compliance with the updated minimum wage rates and Modern Award pay rates.
For more detailed information and clarification, please refer to the official determinations and announcements made by the Fair Work Commission.
We will continue to keep you informed and provide any necessary updates related to these changes. | | | | | | | | DAFF Plantation Establishment Program to support plantation establishment | |
The Australian Government's Support Plantation Establishment program is set to open later this month, offering grant funding of $73.8 million to support the establishment of new plantations. The aim is to ensure Australia's future domestic wood supply and contribute to the country's carbon emission reduction commitments.
The grants will be available to private industry, First Nations businesses, farm foresters, and state and territory government forestry enterprises. Applicants will be required to provide a co-contribution equal to the grant amount.
To stay informed and not miss out on this grant opportunity, interested parties are encouraged to register their interest on GrantConnect. By visiting the GrantConnect homepage, individuals can click on the 'New User Registration' menu and complete the online form. Upon registration, they will receive an email notification when the grant round officially opens.
Additionally, the Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) has been informed that plantations that have already been registered or are under application with the Clean Energy Regulator prior to the grant opening date will also be eligible for the grant. Further details regarding the program have not yet been released. However, as more information becomes available, AFPA will provide updates to interested parties.
If you have any inquiries or need additional information please click on the button below. | | | | | | | | | | WALKING FLOOR: Unload where tippers cannot | | When it comes to flexibility in the field, a KEITH WALKING FLOOR trailer offers an advantage over its tipping counterpart. Operators can unload almost anywhere. The horizontal unloading of a moving floor trailer allows for loads to be discharged at nearly any location, including inside of buildings and in areas with overhead hazards like trees or utility lines. “Horizontal unloading is also a clear safety advantage,” said Zyggy Reinoga of KEITH WALKING FLOOR Australia Pty Ltd. “Not only does it eliminate the dangers of hitting power cables; the risk of trailers toppling like a tipping trailer is removed.” As a result, WALKING FLOOR trailers can be safely unloaded in a variety of environments not suited for tippers. “This offers operators more unloading options,” added Reinoga. “If a customer wants the material offloaded under a covered location or wants the load distributed at multiple locations in the yard, it is no problem for a WALKING FLOOR trailer.” Moving floor trailers feature a hydraulic drive, located under the trailer. The drive actuates a series of floor slats inside the trailer that “walk” material out the back. No tipping or tilting is needed to completely discharge the load. According to Reinoga, operators cite the ability to haul a wide variety of materials as an advantage of using WALKING FLOOR trailers. “Moving floor systems don’t only handle bulk materials, you can also unload bales and pallets. This makes the WALKING FLOOR system attractive to operators interested in backhauling options.” Fine materials, such as feed, seed and mulch often benefit from a cleanout tarp. KEITH offers its CleenSweep tarp system as an optional accessory to its WALKING FLOOR unloader. Used in conjunction with the WALKING FLOOR system, the CleenSweep tarp sweeps out the residual material as the trailer unloads. Operators no longer need to enter the trailer to use a broom or manual tarp for cleanout. “Keeping personnel out of the trailers is always preferable,” said Reinoga. “The risk of being buried by material, falling or having a back injury are all increased when operators are getting in and out of the trailers.” The tarp is attached to a winch system, where it extends inside of the trailer. The load rests on the tarp and as the WALKING FLOOR system unloads the trailer, the weight of the material pulls the tarp along with the floor, cleaning as it goes. Once the unloading is complete, the CleenSweep tarp is reset at the push of a button. Since 1973, KEITH has provided a variety of industries with WALKING FLOOR technology. For more information on KEITH WALKING FLOOR systems, visit keithwalkingfloor.com or contact Zyggy Reinoga of KEITH WALKING FLOOR Australia on 0404 041 833 to discuss your material handling needs.
Source: Big Rigs | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Thank you to our sponsors for their ongoing support for our AFCA and our members: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Interested in becoming a Sponsor of AFCA and its members? | | As an AFCA sponsor you will have the opportunity to collaborate and provide your input into industry and government initiatives that impact not only your business but that of our members also. Multiple opportunities to promote your business to AFCA members through advertising, exclusive invitations to member events and by providing coordinated input through AFCA with other members and sponsors. | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
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