Friday Offcuts – 20 March 2026
Click to Subscribe - It's FREE! Welcome to this week’s issue of Friday Offcuts.We begin with Saturday's International Day of Forests, which this year centres on 'Forests and Economies.' The theme reinforces that forests are powerful economic engines, supporting jobs and exports while underpinning the transition to a circular bioeconomy built on engineered timber and biomaterials. That contribution is now being tested by conflict in the Middle East, which has pushed oil above US$100 a barrel, lifted freight prices, and prompted New Zealand to release strategic oil tickets. In Australia, hardwood operators are grappling with diesel nearing A$3 a litre, while NZ’s March update highlights storm damage and mounting cost pressures. Further coverage spans federal shadow ministry appointments, women’s leadership, STT’s regeneration burns, and the Harvesting Micro Innovation Challenge. We round out the issue with Sydney’s Atlassian tower, a new carbon calculator, and a tribute to James Hyne, who retires after 50 years - rising from the mill floor to the board. Finally, FIEA will host Environmental Forestry 2026 in Rotorua next week, and we are seeing strong early interest in the upcoming June series, WoodTECH 2026. Read these stories and more in this week’s issue of Friday Offcuts.
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This week we have for you:
Celebrating the contribution of NZ’s forests
Every year on 21 March, the International Day of Forests invites us to pause and
reflect on the role forests play in our lives. This year’s theme -
Forests and Economies - feels especially timely. It
captures what many of us in the forestry and wood processing sector have
long understood: our forests are not only taonga but key drivers of our
long-term economic wellbeing.When you look at the numbers - the jobs, the communities, the innovation tied to forestry - it’s clear we’re talking about one of New Zealand’s quiet economic engines. Forestry and wood processing support tens of thousands of people, generate billions in exports, and fuel industries from construction to manufacturing. Just as important are the benefits that don’t appear in GDP. Forests stabilise our soils, regulate water, protect wildlife, and store vast amounts of carbon. These aren’t nice-to-haves, they’re the long-term foundations of resilient economies. Few industries can simultaneously grow the economy, support national climate goals, and strengthen local communities. Forestry does all three. What makes this year’s theme especially resonant is the global shift already underway. As the world moves away from fossil fuels, the question isn’t whether economies will change, it’s how quickly and through what systems. Increasingly, forests are recognised as part of the solution, providing renewable materials and resources to support lower‑carbon development. A renewable, circular economy built on engineered timber, biomaterials, bioenergy, new fibre products, and other low‑carbon alternatives is no longer theoretical. These technologies are maturing, and New Zealand’s existing forestry estate and scientific capability give us a platform for growth. If we utilise these strengths, the bioeconomy could contribute significantly to our future economic development. Forests touch so many parts of our society: housing and construction, advanced manufacturing, energy, circular systems, regional development, Māori economic development, climate adaptation and mitigation, conservation and biodiversity. Forests aren’t single use, instead they’re multi benefit systems that support our wellbeing, our industries, and our national resilience. Momentum is also growing through international and domestic collaboration. Agreements with Viet Nam and India are opening opportunities for research, trade, and shared sustainability initiatives. At home, partnerships between government and industry - through joint investment, workforce development, and responsible forestry standards - are helping to create conditions for long‑term sector growth. This cooperation gives me confidence that New Zealand is not just participating in the emerging global forest economy, we are helping shape it. Ultimately, what excites me most about this year’s theme is it’s a reminder that forests are not only part of our economic history, they are central to our economic future. The International Day of Forests highlights that forests are a resource to grow with, an environment to protect, an innovation platform to build from, and a cornerstone of long‑term prosperity. If we nurture our forests, invest in innovation, and strengthen partnerships, New Zealand can lead the world in building an economy that is productive, sustainable, resilient - and distinctly our own. Source: Deputy Director General Sam Keenan, Te Uru Rākau – New Zealand Forest Services  Middle Eastern conflict impact on global softwood trade
Within weeks of the Iran-Israel-US conflict, the broader impact
is already disrupting shipping, causing turmoil in oil and energy
markets. The Strait of Hormuz is now closed, a crucial route
that accounts for about 20% of global oil, nearly one-third of liquefied
natural gas (LNG), and 2%-3% of the world's container traffic. A lot of
shipping traffic has been stalled or rerouted, freight insurance
premiums and war-risk surcharges are rising, and several carries have
suspended operations in the region.The outsized impact that oil prices have on the global economy means higher fuel and energy prices are all but guaranteed for many countries, not just those in the conflict region. The cost of a barrel of oil has topped $100 for the first time since 2022. And, according to Marko Summanen, Vice President, Forest Value Chain Europe at ResourceWise, European natural gas prices have jumped by €30/MWh in just two weeks, suppressing industrial demand for paper mills as production costs soar. Timber markets rely heavily on long-distance maritime trade, and trade flows can shift quickly as a result of geopolitical disruptions or policy changes. In the past decade, those trade flows have been tested by the Covid pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine war and subsequent sanctions, the Red Sea crisis that began in October 2023, and US tariffs. The Iran conflict could accelerate structural shifts that have the potential to reshape global timber trade flows in the future. It is the second conflict-driven logistics disruption in the Middle East in a little over two years. So perhaps one of the questions that will take some time to answer is whether the Middle East remains a stable import market for lumber. More >> Source: ResourceWise New Shadow Ministry welcomed by forestry sector
The Coalition’s new Shadow Minister for Agriculture,
Fisheries and Forestry the Hon Darren Chester MP, and the
retention of Assistant Shadow Minister for Forestry Tony Pasin MP
have been welcomed by Australia’s forestry
industry.AFPA CEO Diana Hallam said: “Following a reshuffle by the Nationals, I congratulate Mr Chester, who joins Mr Pasin in the Shadow Ministry, as well as acknowledge the new Nationals Leader Senator the Hon Matt Canavan, who will take on the trade and investment portfolio and has called for more ‘Australian farming, and more Australian manufacturing’. “Mr Chester and Mr Pasin are both dedicated and long-term advocates of Australia’s forestry sector, as they have sustainable forest industries in their electorates that provide vital support for local economies, jobs and communities,” Ms Hallam said. “Mr Chester – the Nationals new Deputy Leader – already has a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of forest industries as his Gippsland electorate in regional Victoria has a variety of forestry investments, operations and estates. “As Australia’s sixth largest manufacturing sector, our industry is delighted to welcome the appointment of Andrew Willcox MP as Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability. “We also sincerely thank Senator Ross Cadell for his outstanding contribution to our forest industries, as the former Shadow Minister. Senator Cadell has been a passionate and effective advocate for forestry and regional Australia – and we look forward to continuing to work closely with him and his staff to champion forestry issues," said Diana Hallam. Given the major challenges facing our sector, we want to work with the Coalition, Federal Labor and crossbench MPs and Senators to achieve sensible policy reforms and outcomes for the industry, which is essential for national productivity, the environment and communities. Australia’s forestry industry must remain vibrant and strong to sustain employment, support sovereign capability, address climate change and continue to underpin many rural and regional communities. Source: AFPA NZ agrees to release oil tickets to global market
Associate Energy Minister, Shane Jones, has confirmed New
Zealand will release oil tickets to fulfil its commitment to the
International Energy Agency’s collective action in response to the
oil supply issues created by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
New Zealand’s contribution under the action, announced last week by the International Energy Agency (IEA), is 1.577 million barrels of crude oil or the equivalent. Oil tickets are contracts that give the Government the option to purchase different types of fuel. New Zealand is not releasing physical supply to the market, the Minister clarified. “New Zealand holds oil tickets, which are options to purchase different types of oil or refined fuel. We will release some of the tickets we hold to the global market,” said Mr Jones. “Under the action, IEA members have agreed to release 400 million barrels of crude oil or equivalent to global markets. This is significantly greater in volume than the collective action taken in response to the Russia-Ukraine conflict in 2022. “This will add much-needed supply globally, helping reduce pressure on global refineries which ordinarily access oil from the Middle East. The action should help to calm global markets.” More >> Source: Inside Government  Fuel prices threatening Australian hardwood supply
A fifth-generation family operation in Bulahdelah is absorbing a
$7,800 weekly fuel surge to keep hardwood moving to Australia’s
cities. Federal Parliament is now asking why.Forest and Wood Communities Australia is warning that soaring regional fuel prices are threatening the hardwood supply chain that feeds building sites, mine shafts, vineyards, Australia’s first green steel facility and makes the pallets to move the food and fibre from the farms to the cities, and that without urgent relief, the families who run it cannot keep absorbing the cost. With 90% of our population living on just 0.25% of Australia’s land mass, regional communities are feeling the impact of surging fuel prices more acutely than their city cousins. The cost of fuel is up to a dollar higher in regional communities and they can’t just walk to the shops or catch a train,” said Steve Dobbyns BSc (Forestry), Chairman, Forest & Wood Communities Australia. The alarm is coming from Bulahdelah, 235 kilometres north of Sydney, where Anthony Dorney and his brothers operate two hardwood sawmills, SA Relf and Newells Creek, as the fifth generation of a family that has been cutting timber in north-east New South Wales for over a century. Last week, Anthony pulled up to the bowser and paid $2.90 a litre. “It’s obscene,” he said. The numbers behind those words are hard to argue with. In a single week, daily fuel costs across the two operations have climbed by more than $7,800. Every tonne of Tallowwood, Ironbark and Blackbutt that leaves Bulahdelah does so on the back of a fuel-powered truck. The two mills employ more than 10% of the local town’s population and supply a large share of north-east NSW’s hardwood, running supply chains south to Sydney and the Central Coast, west to Canberra, and north to Brisbane. “It’s not a case of panic buying,” Mr Dorney said. “It’s all due to a critical shortage at the bowser and growing rationing between customers.” More >> Source: Forest & Wood Communities Australia Image credit: Newell's Creek --(2022)2.jpg) NZ March 2026 market update
Autumn, the season with one foot in summer and the other in
winter. Unfortunately, most NZ’rs feel that the 2025/26 summer
also had a foot (or maybe a foot and a half) in winter with
plenty of rainfall and below average temperatures over most of the
country.Summer also tends to be the season we now get significant storm damage. This is highlighted with the tragic slip at Mt Maunganui, the storm damage on the East Cape which created around 11,000 slips in one event and a recent windstorm that caused significant wind damage to forests in the Wanganui and Rangitikei districts. Let’s also not forget the two cyclone sisters, Hale and Gabrielle that wreaked havoc on the coast were both in summer. NZ’s summer camping holidays are becoming more of a dice roll than a craps table. So here we are heading into Autumn feeling a bit ripped off and then Trump decides to go all out on Iran. It’s no secret that the Iranian regime have been poking the grizzly for a while and we all know the Trump ego is one bear that doesn’t like to be poked. However, the adage that if you’re going to kick a tiger in the backside, you’d better have a good plan for its teeth has rung true for the Don with the Iranians shutting down the Strait of Hormuz. This hasn’t been ideal for world fuel prices with around 20% of global supply transiting the Strait. Oil prices have jumped around 30% and we’re looking down the barrel of plus $3/litre diesel in NZ if the Strait stays closed. Those of you that jumped into EV’s will be smarting as the rest of us have to forgo our morning latte in order afford to get to work. Industry, however, relies on diesel to keep the wheels of commerce turning and any significant increase will feed back to the consumer in one form or another. Unfortunately, the forest industry is a particularly fuel-heavy industry. Rule of thumb is that it takes around 4 litres of diesel to turn trees into logs and put them onto a log truck and, assuming a 100km cartage distance, another 2 litres to get them to the port or sawmill. If you take the current increase in fuel cost of around $1/litre, you’re looking at $6/tonne straight off the forest owners’ bottom line ($8/tonne if you’re 200km from markets) – thanks Don. Unfortunately, this scrap also affects bunker oil prices, meaning shipping costs are heading north also. It’s well known that shipping companies are like the four horsemen of the apocalypse and will take any opportunity to increase prices where they can. Current vessel offerings to China are up at least $US10/m3 on February numbers and some have settled as much as $US15/m3 up. India charters are eyewatering in comparison and many are throwing the boat in reverse and heading to different markets. More >> Source & image credit: Forest360 Why forestry needs women’s leadership
Forestry is strongest when it draws on the full talent of its people. Women already contribute across the sector – in science, operations, logistics, technology, education, and community engagement – yet they remain under-represented in senior leadership roles.At a time when the industry faces workforce shortages, increasing expectations around sustainability, and growing scrutiny from the public, forestry cannot afford to overlook half of its potential leadership talent. The Wahine in Forestry Conference, held in Christchurch in March, created space for women from across Aotearoa’s forestry sector to connect, share insights, and discuss how the industry can better support women’s progression into leadership. While the gathering celebrated the progress women have made, the deeper message was about strengthening the sector itself. Diverse leadership brings broader perspectives, better decision-making, and more resilient organisations. Connection emerged as a key theme. Leadership development is not only about technical expertise; it is also about relationships, networks, and confidence. Dr Denise Quinlan, Founder of the New Zealand Institute of Wellbeing & Resilience, reminded participants that humans are hard-wired to be relational. Workplaces that foster trust, connection, and belonging tend to build stronger teams and more effective leaders. The conference also explored lessons from other sectors that have taken deliberate steps to grow women’s leadership. In the geothermal energy sector, initiatives such as the Wingman Special Taskforce encourage male leaders to actively advocate for their female colleagues, recognising that advancing gender equity is not a “women’s issue” but an industry leadership issue. For forestry, the opportunity is clear. International evidence consistently shows that organisations with diverse leadership perform better, innovate more effectively, and build healthier workplace cultures. A more inclusive leadership pipeline will also help the sector attract the next generation of talent. The conversations sparked at the Wahine in Forestry Conference will continue through regional events over the coming year, focusing on identifying and removing barriers that limit women’s progression. The message for the industry is simple: when women in forestry are supported to lead, the whole sector grows stronger. Source & image credit: Discover Forestry NZ  World’s tallest hybrid timber tower in Sydney near completion
Sydney’s skyline is undergoing a historic transformation
as Atlassian Central nears completion. This ambitious
“plyscraper” is set to become the world’s tallest
hybrid timber tower, reaching a staggering height of 183 meters
(600 feet). For comparison, the previous record-holder,
Milwaukee’s Ascent, stands at 86.6 meters (284 feet). Designed by BVN and SHoP Architects, the tower utilizes a hybrid structural system that combines concrete and steel with engineered wood. “The Atlassian Central Tower in Sydney reflects core values around sustainability and workplace culture with a human-centered design that balances structural innovation and environmental performance,” said SHoP Architects. While buildings like Norway's Mjøstårnet rely more exclusively on timber, Atlassian Central incorporates significant steel and concrete components. This combination provides the structural stability required to support a 39-story frame. The project incorporates approximately 10,000 cubic meters (353,000 cubic feet) of engineered wood. This includes glued-laminated timber columns and cross-laminated timber slabs, which are being imported from Europe. These timber elements are integrated into the floor plates and internal support structures of the tower. More >> Source: Interesting Engineering Image credit: SHoP Architects Help shape the future of Australian forestry
As part of Forestry Australia’s commitment to
ensuring Australian Forestry, our peer-reviewed
journal remains relevant, valuable and fit for purpose, we are seeking
your feedback through a short survey.Forestry Australia has appointed a review panel for Australian Forestry, to lead a three-year strategic review. Your insights and reflections will help inform the review panel’s work to strengthen the relevance, reach and impact of Australian Forestry, and to ensure it continues to deliver value for forest scientists, researchers and managers. The survey will help identify opportunities, areas for improvement and future priorities so that Australian Forestry continues to meet the needs and expectations of those working and studying in the forest sector. Whether you are a long-time reader, author, reviewer or someone with an interest in forest science and research, your perspective is important and will help inform the review. To encourage participation Forestry Australia is offering you the chance to win a $250 gift card of your choice. When completing the survey be sure to provide your contact details to go into the draw. We encourage you to take a few moments to complete the survey and share your views. Click here for the survey Source: Forestry Australia James Hyne retires - 50 years’ service
Following his 50-year tenure with Hyne, fifth generation James
Hyne has announced his retirement. His journey started
back in 1976 when, at age 15, he rode his push bike to work in the
Maryborough pole yard during his school holidays. At 17, he officially commenced, but only after his grandfather, third generation Lambert Hyne, had briefed everyone that he was not to receive any special treatment. As such, James’ first job was shovelling mud at the treatment plant. From hardwood to softwood, pole yards to log yards, operations to the office, James worked across many parts of the business including as a Director on the Board. He has seen and been part of many acquisitions, restructures, leadership changes and new locations. However, James states it is the many faces and characters he has had the privilege to work with over the years, that are his most treasured experiences and memories. “It has always been said, from generation to generation, that Hyne is about its people and I couldn’t agree more. I thank all those who have been part of my journey over the years – far too many to mention," said James. “There have been many great leaders that have provided inspiring mentoring, and it has been a privilege to be part of a company built on the strength of its people. From riding my push bike into the pole yard at 15 to walking out after 50 years, it has been an extraordinary journey and one I will always be grateful for. “As I retire, I acknowledge the exciting times for Hyne, particularly through the partnership with James Jones and the continued global growth and expansion. I wish the business and the broader industry, every success for the future.” James said. In paying tribute to James’ 50 years of service, Hyne Group Chair, Tom Bruce-Jones said his retirement is extremely well-deserved. “James has made a remarkable contribution to both the business and the community with an incredible 50 years of service. Being highly regarded throughout the company and as a local, Maryborough man, the announcement of his retirement will no doubt be met with mixed emotions.” “However, I am sure we can all agree it is well-deserved to say the least, and I wish him all the very best with this next, hopefully more relaxed, chapter.” Mr Bruce-Jones said. In his most recent role at Hyne, James has been a particularly active member of the Maryborough region community including supporting local men’s sheds and charities such as Rally for a Cause. He has often been seen at the forefront of recruitment expo’s as well as speaking at many events and in classrooms, promoting the long history, sustainability and future opportunities within the industry. James’ official last day will be 31 March 2026. Source & image credit: Hyne Group  Sustainable Timber Tasmania's regeneration burnsIn an extensive interview with ABC Radio this week, Sustainable Timber Tasmania's fire management manager, Dean Sheehan, explains the upcoming planned burns across the state. Regeneration burns serve an essentail purpose for the health and growth of the environment, and take place between March to May, weather dependent.Click on the link below to listen to the full interview. Source: STT and ABC Radio Extension for 2026 Harvesting Micro Innovation Challenge
The deadline for the 2026 Harvesting Micro Innovation Challenge
has been extended to 5pm, Saturday 28 March, providing forestry crews
additional time to submit their practical solutions for the industry.
The challenge highlights the impact of on-the-ground innovation, with previous winners demonstrating how simple ideas can solve complex operational hurdles. Notable breakthroughs include:
A prize of $10,000 NZD is available to help the winner build and trial a prototype of their idea. The entry process is designed to be accessible for those working in the field, requiring only a description of the problem and supporting sketches or photos rather than lengthy formal proposals. Submissions are open for tools, process improvements, or mechanical fixes. Interested parties can find more information and enter via the Harvesting Micro Innovation Challenge website. Source & image credit: Micro Innovation NZ  Launch of new Australian timber framing carbon calculator
WoodSolutions has launched a new Timber Framing Carbon
Calculator, a free online tool designed to help residential builders
clearly demonstrate the carbon stored in the timber-framed homes they
build.Recent research from Forest & Wood Products Australia (FWPA) shows sustainability considerations are increasingly influencing home buyer decisions. The WoodSolutions Timber Framing Carbon Calculator responds by giving builders a simple, credible way to quantify and communicate the carbon benefits of structural timber framing. Using recognised industry data and methodology, the tool generates a customised Carbon Certificate detailing how much carbon dioxide has been removed from the atmosphere and stored within a builder’s timber-framed homes. The certificate can be used across tenders, proposals, websites and client communications, providing a practical sustainability proof point throughout the home buyer journey. "Many residential builders already choose structural timber framing because it makes commercial and practical sense, while also delivering strong environmental outcomes," said WoodSolutions Renewable Timber Framing Campaign Manager, Christine Briggs. "What’s often missing is a clear way to communicate that carbon benefit to clients. The Carbon Calculator turns an existing construction choice into something tangible - proof that can support sales conversations and build client confidence." In addition to business-level certificates, builders can also generate personalised Carbon Certificates for individual homes, creating a meaningful addition to post-build handover packs. For builders already building with structural timber framing, the carbon benefit is already there. The WoodSolutions Carbon Calculator simply makes it visible. Builders can access the Carbon Calculator and download their Carbon Certificate. Source & image credit: WoodSolutions / FWPA  Jobs
Buy and Sell
And one to end on... The tomato garden
And on that note, enjoy your weekend. Cheers.  Brand PartnersOur Partners & Sponsors Friday Offcuts is made possible through the generous support of the following companies.
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An elderly Italian man living alone in New Jersey wanted to plant his
annual tomato garden, but it was very difficult work, since the ground was
hard. His only son, Vincent, who used to help him, was in prison. The old
man wrote a letter to his son and described his predicament: