Where tradition meets technology, and sustainability meets quality. A rich family legacy. By Campbell McInnes
Fenning Timbers, a trusted name in the Australian timber industry, boasting a legacy that spans five generations, making it one of the longest-established sawmilling families in Australia. Founded in 1947 by Charles Fenning and his wife Dorothy (née Schubert), the company has been a trusted name in timber production for over 75 years.
The Fenning family’s connection to the timber industry dates back to the late 19th century when George Fenning settled on the North Coast of New South Wales as a sawmiller, passing his craft down to his descendants. Similarly, Geoffrey Schubert, Dorothy Fenning’s father, began his sawmilling journey on the Comboyne Plateau in 1919, contributing to the family’s deep- rooted expertise.
Today, the company is under the leadership of Leonard Fenning, Charles’s son, who has been instrumental in transforming Fenning Timbers into one of the world’s most modern and efficient hardwood sawmills, with cutting-edge technology and a strong commitment to sustainability. I was fortunate to be able to catch up with Leonard to delve further into Fenning Timbers.
Above: Blacksands Forest, one of two plantation forests owned by Fenning Timbers.
A STATE-OF-THE-ART TIMBER CONVERSION CENTRE
Located in Bairnsdale, in the heart of Victoria’s East Gippsland region, Fenning Timbers operates a sophisticated timber conversion centre. Leonard explained, “the operation specializes in converting Victorian Ash logs into premium kiln-dried, finger- jointed, and laminated timber, primarily for structural applications”. The sawmill processes logs from their sustainable, certified forests, ensuring that the timber used is of the highest quality and that the environment remains a priority.
Fenning Timbers does supplement some of their log volume from other sources, however, ensure all timber is certified.
Leonard said, “we produce F17 structural grade timber in a range of sizes, from 90×45 to 290×45, available in lengths between 2.7 meters to 6.0 meters”. This timber is suitable for both residential and commercial construction projects and is available to wholesalers across Australia. “The F17 can be enclosed, or we also produce an appearance F17 grade as well for exposed timbers,” he added. With a daily production of 60 cubic meters through the sawmill and the capacity to process an average of 120 logs per day, the company has established itself as a major supplier of high-quality structural hardwood.
Leonard advised, “The company also places significant emphasis on its drying process. After logs are sawn at the Bairnsdale site, they are air-dried for up to 12 months before being processed in state- of-the-art Incomac kilns. This meticulous process ensures that moisture levels meet Australian Standards, resulting in durable and dimensionally stable products”. There are four kilns on site with a total capacity of 400 m3 per charge with a maximum turnover of 10 days.
Above: Out feed of the Weinig Ultra TT 1000 Finger Jointer, Germany made.
COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY
Fenning Timbers is not only dedicated to quality but also to sustainability. All timber harvested by the company is sourced from sustainably managed forests, certified by the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC). The company owns and operates two major hardwood plantation estates—Blacksands and Caringal—further supporting their commitment to environmental stewardship.
Blacksands Plantation Estate is located in the Yarra Valley and spans 531 acres, predominantly planted with Mountain Ash. The estate is carefully managed with selective thinning, ensuring a sustainable cycle of harvesting and replanting.
Similarly, Caringal Plantation Estate, located near Mt Baw Baw, covers 558 acres and is renowned for producing high-quality Mountain Ash timber. Leonard said, “based on our current supply, we have enough logs available to produce quality certified F17 timber for at least the next ten years”.
Both plantations are subject to rigorous environmental controls, ensuring that only commercially viable trees are harvested, with younger trees left to mature for future generations. This sustainable approach is at the core of Fenning Timbers’ operations, demonstrating their commitment to responsible forestry practices.
Above: Fenning’s MEM Scan & See Cobra Edger (France), which uses the laser line technology.
ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY AND MODERN PRODUCTION
Fenning Timbers’ forward-thinking approach extends beyond environmental sustainability—it is also reflected in their use of cutting-edge technology. Leonard explained, “in 2019, we invested in a series of high-tech upgrades, including two state-of- the-art machines from Weinig. These additions have significantly boosted efficiency and product quality”.
The Combiscan Evo System, a sophisticated scanning and trimming system, is one such upgrade. Leonard explained, “it scans each timber board as it passes through the machine, identifying defects and transmitting this data to the saw for precise trimming. This system reduces waste and maximizes timber recovery, ensuring that every log yields the highest quality product”. This is one example of how Fenning Timbers are better utilising every log to ensure they minimise any potential waste.
Following this, timber is processed through a fully automated Finger Jointer Line, which joins smaller pieces of timber to create longer, more desired lengths. Similarly, the laminating technology enables Fenning Timbers to offer custom sizes like 190×45, 240×45, and 290×45, making them a go-to choose for customers seeking tailored solutions.
TIMBERS THAT STAND THE TEST OF TIME
Fenning Timbers is proud to work with some of the finest Australian hardwoods. The company predominantly processes Alpine (Vic) Ash and Mountain Ash, two of the most respected species in Victoria.
- Alpine Ash (Eucalyptus Delegatensis) is sourced from the high altitudes of Eastern Victoria. Its light colour and straight grain, along with excellent dimensional stability, make it a preference for sophisticated structural and joinery work.
- Mountain Ash (Eucalyptus Regnans), one of the largest hardwood species in Australia, is known for its pale pink or straw colour and coarse texture. Its strength and durability make it ideal for building construction and flooring, as well as custom furniture.
Fenning Timbers ensures that each piece of timber is carefully graded, delivering products that meet Australian Standards.
Leonard explained, “many customers using their F17 for external use, have the timber treated to H3 for a lasting solution”.
Above: A Birds Eye view of the well laid out and maintained Fenning’s site in Bairnsdale, Victoria.
A FAMILY BUSINESS BUILT ON TRUST
At its core, Fenning Timbers remains a family business with strong values and a commitment to excellence. Leonard Fenning, with decades of industry experience, continues to lead the company with a focus on technological innovation, quality control, and employee safety.
The Bairnsdale facility is constantly being upgraded with modern equipment and practices, ensuring that Fenning Timbers remains at the forefront of the timber industry. Alongside Leonard, his wife Dorothy, and their family work tirelessly to maintain the high standards that Fenning Timbers is known for.
KEY STAFF
Collectively the Fenning Timbers team of forty staff at the timber conversion centre, have vast knowledge and many years of experience in working with and producing quality timber products. They all contribute to the process of creating a quality timber product.
“We are fortunate to have a highly dedicated team that are passionate about the business and the products we produce. Leading the Fenning’s team is General Manager Rodney Natty, supported by Head of Resource Brian Donchi, Account Manager Mark Hack and Sales Team Leader Stephen Sroczynski, who ensures the availability of the Fenning’s premium F17 product to Wholesalers across the region. Each member of our leadership team brings over 25 years of experience with Fenning Timbers,” Leonard explained.
FENNING TIMBERS: A PROVEN CHOICE FOR BUILDERS AND DESIGNERS
With over seven decades of experience, a commitment to sustainability, and a passion for producing high-quality products, Fenning Timbers has established itself as a leader in the Australian timber industry for producing F17 from local Victorian hardwood. Whether for commercial, residential, or industrial projects, Fenning Timbers offers a proven product that builders and designers trust.
Leonard expressed “we are proud to be partnered with Meyer Timber as our major distributor. A company that is in their 50th year of business”. Meyer Timber, Melbourne office can be contacted on the following number: 03 8710 6900.
For more information on Fenning Timbers, visit www.fenning.com.au.
