Dear <<First Name>>,
We are excited to share the latest research supported by FWPA that aims to improve safety, reduce labour costs and boost productivity, from virtual reality assessments to the use of CLT in multi-storey projects.
We also demonstrate initiatives involving collaboration across a number of agricultural industries. The iMapPESTS program will report the presence of particular airborne pests and diseases for forestry, viticulture, grains, sugar, horticulture and cotton.
In addition, we round up relevant international news, including the challenges faced by PNG’s balsa industry and the potential to limit plant stress.
We hope you enjoy this edition.
VR supporting safer and more cost-effective forest management
New research has demonstrated that forestry field operators can accurately perform certain tree stem assessments in an immersive, virtual reality (VR) environment. Consequent benefits to industry could range from improved safety to reduced labour costs. Read more
Stepping up knowledge: how MDF products can be used more broadly in stair construction
New research has demonstrated medium density fibreboard (MDF) is suitable for use in more elements of stair construction than previously thought. The study has resulted in the development of new industry guidelines around the appropriate use of MDF products in stair structures across a range of scenarios. Read more
Productivity rises in multi-storey mass timber construction
A team of Australian researchers has been working to measure the onsite installation productivity of Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) in multi-storey building projects, demonstrating the significant productivity opportunities associated with the material’s use, and how to maximise them. Read more
Aiming for the sky in cross-industry plant pest surveillance
Australia’s agriculture and horticulture industries have joined forces, developing a program to change the way airborne pests and diseases are detected. Read more
Researchers work with PNG balsa industry to support its continued development
The balsa export industry in the East New Britain Province (ENB) of Papua New Guinea (PNG) is big business. Despite this, it faces major challenges with productivity and sustainability, market access and product development. Australian researchers have taken initial steps to work with industry stakeholders to change all of this. Read more
Watch now – research centre to put Australia at forefront of best practice
During a recent interview for the WoodChat podcast series, Professor Morrell said: “One of the purposes of the centre is to reinvigorate Australian research, and to make sure there is a next generation that starts doing treatment and durability work.”
Pacific Timber Engineering Conference headed for Brisbane
The Future Timber Hub is preparing to host its fifth Pacific Timber Engineering Conference (PTEC). Read more
'Plants get stressed out too’ – reducing the climate’s impact on harvests
A new research paper has provided fresh insights into how plants respond to stress. Scientists hope to develop new ways of limiting negative impacts on crop yields. Read more
Benefits of transparent wood are heating up
Since the initial creation of transparent wood three years ago, further developments have resulted in additional material benefits, including the ability to store and release heat. Read more
New symposium to showcase latest Australian plant biosecurity research
The inaugural Plant Biosecurity Research Symposium (PBRI) will showcase current plant biosecurity research being conducted by a large range of research teams in Australia. Read more
