From its first tabloid issue in October 1985 to today’s trusted national publication, Timber Trader News has proudly stood tall as the voice of Australia’s timber, hardware, and fabrication industries. For 40 years, TTN has informed, inspired, and connected the people shaping our nation’s-built environment. As we celebrate four decades of continuous publishing, it is our privilege to carry this legacy forward — honouring the past while building a future grounded in strength, innovation, and sustainability.
CAMPBELL McINNES & CHRIS PARKER
PUBLISHERS, TIMBER TRADER NEWS
CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF TIMBER TRADER NEWS
This issue marks a significant milestone—Timber Trader News is proudly celebrating its 40th anniversary. As we reflect on four decades of service to the timber and hardware industry, we also want to share recent developments that are shaping the magazine’s future.
Today, Timber Trader News is published by Timber Media Australasia, a company also behind Timber & Forestry eNews, a respected weekly digital magazine now in its 18th year. eNews remains free to access and subscribe to, and we encourage you to join our growing digital readership here: https://www. timberandforestryenews.com/subscribe/
Timber Media Australasia is co-owned by Campbell McInnes and Chris Parker, whose journey began in November 2022 with an investment in Timber & Forestry eNews. Their initial aim was to support the late John Halkett, who had long been at the helm of eNews. Before Campbell and Chris could start into their new roles, John was approached about acquiring Timber Trader News from Paragon Media.
Recognising TTN’s long-standing reputation and its potential to complement eNews, John saw an opportunity to better serve the industry. While Paragon Media had strengths in health and fitness publications, they lacked timber industry expertise to drive TTN forward. At that time, the magazine was bi-monthly and averaged 40 pages per issue.
With John deeply engaged in multiple roles—including General Manager of ATIF, Principal of Forestlands Consulting, and Publisher of eNews—he entrusted the revitalisation of TTN to Campbell and Chris. So now the work began!
Chris got to work on all the corporate, ASIC and back of house areas, including suppliers, websites, communications, accounting and all the necessary procedures that are essential to make a business function with clarity. Chris also established formal meetings, minutes and set about instituting our first business plan and strategic direction.
Drawing on his 40 years of industry experience, and a background in sales, marketing and management, Campbell reconnected with advertisers, many of whom had received little or no contact for some time. While some uncertainty was understandable, several loyal supporters continued their partnership, support for which Campbell and Chris remain immensely grateful. Campbell also worked closely with the editor, on editorial direction, content planning, and mapping out future features.
Under new ownership, the first issue of Timber Trader News—Issue 437 (March– April 2023)—marked a turning point. It expanded to 52 pages, a standard that has been maintained ever since.
Crucially, the transition was strengthened by the continued contribution of Donyale Harrison, the magazine’s editor (at that time) and lead writer. Her deep knowledge of the publication and its audience was vital in maintaining editorial continuity and quality.
Equally valuable was the creative expertise of Julitta Overdijk, who brought her design and layout skills to the fore. Her support in advertising design has been widely appreciated by clients and played a critical role as Campbell and Chris familiarised themselves with the magazine’s visual and content standards. Julitta remains with TTN, displaying a growing flare, passion and enthusiasm with many clients directly benefiting from her creative insight.
Those early issues were a whirlwind— produced with dedication and a clear focus: to deliver greater value to readers and advertisers alike. Despite rising printing and postage costs, the decision was made to enhance quality, rather than compromise it.
Sadly, on October 10th, 2023, both teams paused with the news John Halkett had suddenly passed away. We dedicated several pages across 3 weeks in Enews for the outpouring of grief and provided a special vale presentation in memory of John in our Nov/Dec issue #441. The additional pressure now required Campbell and Chris to manage both publications and assist with an extensive number of unexpected items.
Despite the enormous task in front of them, the format of the magazine has remained consistent, with thoughtful enhancements. One popular addition is the “Across the Ditch – NZ Update” section, created in response to reader and advertiser interest in New Zealand content. We’re fortunate to have Michael Smith, an experienced NZ-based writer, who brings insightful coverage of developments across the Tasman.
Another successful initiative has been the introduction of our Front Cover Package, which includes a cover feature, an in-depth editorial commencing from the middle, EDMs (email direct marketing), and website promotion—offering premium exposure for featured businesses.
Our website has also seen significant growth. We’ve invested in a secure, high- performance platform that allows for uninterrupted interaction and navigation. Many partners now enjoy dedicated website tiles, linking directly to their website, increasing visibility and engagement.
Additionally, we launched a social media presence, with LinkedIn as our core B2B platform. Starting from scratch, we now have over 1,500 active followers, and engagement continues to climb. Regular posts reach a growing audience, and we’re grateful for the strong support from our readers and partners.
Now, with Issue 453 (Nov-Dec 2025), we proudly celebrate Timber Trader News’s 40th year in publication. This special edition features NTHA on the front cover.
Throughout its history, Timber Trader News has showcased the people, products, and innovations that drive our industry. From product launches, new technology and services to sector insights and company profiles, the magazine remains a trusted source for the timber and hardware community across Australasia.
Looking ahead, Campbell and Chris are committed to growing the magazine while staying true to its founding mission. The encouragement and feedback received from readers and advertisers alike have been inspiring, stories of how each issue is shared in offices, discussed in meetings, and valued by management teams reaffirm the importance of this publication.
TTN values the partnerships with all advertisers whose support makes this publication possible. We thank you sincerely and invite readers to share ideas and suggestions as we continue evolving Timber Trader News to better serve the industry and add value to our readership.
Thank you for being part of the journey— and here’s to the next chapter of Timber Trader News.
TRENT TAYLOR
GROUP CEO, MULTINAIL
HOW FAR HAS THE INDUSTRY COME IN THE PAST 10 YEARS, AND WHERE DO YOU SEE IT HEADING IN THE FUTURE?
Over the past decade, the truss and frame industry has seen steady but cautious progress. Unlike sectors such as IT, where change is fast and constant, our industry often evolves at a slower pace. That said, the last 10 years have delivered important advances in design software, engineered wood products, and factory technology that have lifted efficiency and quality across the board.
Looking ahead, the trajectory is clear: we must continue to move toward smarter, more automated solutions. Labour is not going to become more plentiful or more skilled on its own, and the pressure on fabricators to deliver more with less will only intensify. The businesses that thrive will be those that embrace automation across both equipment and software, while still maintaining the personal service and relationships that define our industry.
WHAT ARE THE MAJOR CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES ON THE HORIZON, AND HOW MIGHT WE NAVIGATE THEM?
The greatest challenge facing our industry is workforce. It is increasingly difficult to find, train, and retain skilled staff — a trend that shows no signs of easing. The unkind reality is that labour will not suddenly become abundant or more capable.
But within that challenge lies opportunity. By investing in automation, we can remove bottlenecks, reduce reliance on scarce labour, and create safer, more scalable factories. At Multinail, we’ve been investing heavily in this space, developing both advanced machinery and integrated software systems that allow fabricators to operate more efficiently and with greater consistency.
This shift doesn’t mean the industry loses its human element. On the contrary, by freeing up people from repetitive or physically demanding tasks, we give them the chance to focus on higher-value work — building relationships, solving problems, and creating long-term partnerships with builders.
ADDITIONAL COMMENT ON TIMBER TRADER NEWS
Congratulations on 40 years. Timber Trader News has played a vital role in giving our industry a voice — not just reporting on developments, but connecting fabricators, suppliers, and builders in ways that help the whole sector grow.
DAVID MEYER
MANAGING DIRECTOR, MEYER TIMBER
Congratulations on reaching 40 years! This is not easily done. This would not have been achieved without ongoing commitment and offering value to your readership.
If I reflect on the last 10 years, the fundamentals of the Timber industry remain unchanged but there is always change amongst the players in the market. Some businesses are entering, some are strengthening, and some are near the end of their life cycles. Consolidation is a constant of the industry, but whilst this is happening new players continue to emerge.
The Timber industry is a bit like “the People’s front of Judea” in that we would rather fight with “the Judean People’s Front” than fight against the common enemy of other products such as steel. I understand why this is the case because we all get up in the morning needing to sell Timber to pay the bills. But we do ourselves a disservice in not promoting ourselves better.
Virtually all of the major alternative products are worse for the environment, virtually all of those competing industries do a better job of promoting their attributes and pushing attention away from their weaknesses. These days the general populace probably is aware that Timber is a much better Green Alternative than most competing products. I think that we have achieved that level of understanding. But are they aware that in a fire, a house’s Timber frame will burn in a predictable way, which is much better than the steel frame collapsing randomly and suddenly under extreme heat, which makes it risky for the fire brigade to enter and save the inhabitants? Or are people merely comforted that steel doesn’t burn? We all know the answer and it’s due to better promotion of steel.
The next major challenge after promotion is then to better regulate the industry so that the end consumer gets a product that will meet all of the specifications required. Dodgy products exist in all arenas, including steel, but we need to do a better job of weeding them out. Large parts of our market are uneducated, especially the newer entrants and so don’t know what they are buying, nor the risks that come with that cheaper price! Over the long-term ignorance is not bliss!
Overall, the industry will endure. But if the Timber Industry is to meet its potential, we need to collectively embrace the game of promoting the industry and to do so in a way that makes Governments listen. And it is critical that we continue to maintain high product standards by cleaning up and/or educating the rogue elements that have the potential to damage the industry’s reputation.
PETER HUTCHISON
CHAIRMAN, NATIONAL TIMBER & HARDWARE ASSOCIATION
CONGRATULATIONS TO TIMBER TRADER NEWS
As someone who’s spent close to 40 years in this industry — and eighteen as Chairman of the National Timber & Hardware Association — I’ve seen a lot of change. Mills, merchants, and manufacturers have evolved, but one thing that’s remained constant is the role Timber Trader News has played in connecting our industry and supporting independent timber and hardware businesses across Australia.
For four decades, this publication has helped bind our sector together — sharing knowledge, promoting innovation, and giving a voice to those who work at the grassroots of the trade. It has consistently highlighted the contribution of independent merchants, frame and truss fabricators, and the many small and family-owned businesses that form the backbone of our industry.
From local timber yards to national suppliers, Timber Trader News has reflected the diversity, resilience, and ingenuity of an industry that quite literally builds the nation.
On behalf of the NTHA Board and our members across the country, I congratulate the Timber Trader News team on reaching this remarkable 40-year milestone. Your commitment to telling the real stories — of people, products, and progress — has strengthened the voice of independent operators and helped shape the identity of our industry.
Here’s to the next 40 years of shared success, innovation, and collaboration.
GARY WALKER
MD, BELMONT TIMBER NSW
Belmont Timbers NSW was originally started by my father, John Walker, over 70 years ago, in 1951. The business started in Belmont Street, Alexandria, before moving to Fairfield Street, Fairfield in 1956. At that time, we primarily supplied Oregon scantlings and Hardwood sourced from the NSW North Coast to the general public.
In 1980, we expanded to our current premises on Lisbon Street, Fairfield, where the business refined its focus towards fabricating of engineered frames and trusses.
Since those early days, the building industry has undergone significant changes. Over the past ten years, our company has also evolved considerably. During the COVID period, we started to manufacture Posi-Struts, which has since become a major part of our operations. We currently have two machines that operate five days a week and anticipate growing demand from builders moving forward.
The National Construction Code 2022 has created many changes for the builders, including the changing from a Five-Star to Seven-Star thermal rating. While this change promotes greater energy efficiency in residential construction, it has also contributed to rising housing costs.
Another noticeable trend is the increased use of Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) for studs in prefabrication of frames. For modern construction, the main selling points are the superior strength, dimensional stability, and enhanced load bearing capacity.
Looking into the future, the government initiatives are promoting modern methods of construction, using off-site manufacturing and automation, to improve efficiency, quality, and sustainability over traditional building methods. One of the innovations is modular construction which shifts construction from the building site to factories. This approach reduces waste, accelerate timelines, and helps address on-site labour shortages.
It’s encouraging to see significant investment by Forests and Wood Products Australia (FWPA), who are leading efforts to promote more sustainable timber framing solutions.
I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Timber Trader News on 40 years of service to our industry, keeping us informed of changes, association updates, news and insights.
As the industry continues to evolve, I look forward to reading Timber Trader News and staying up to date with the changes that shape our industries future.
KERSTEN GENTLE
CEO, FTMA
Congratulations to Timber Trader News on celebrating 40 years as one of the key voices for Australia’s forest and wood products industry.
For four decades, TTN has been a consistent and professional source of news, technical insight, and advocacy, ensuring that timber continues to be recognised as our nation’s most sustainable building and construction material.
Publishing continuously for 40 years is no small feat, and TTN’s work documenting the growth, challenges, and successes of our industry has helped elevate timber in the eyes of builders, policymakers, and the community. Your stories have celebrated people, championed innovation, and inspired progress — and I have no doubt you’ll continue doing so for many years to come.
HOW FAR WE’VE COME
Since TTN marked its 30th anniversary a decade ago, the timber frame and truss sector has continued to evolve. Consolidation across the industry means we now see approximately 287 individual frame and truss manufacturing sites, owned by 249 companies. Alongside this, larger building businesses are increasingly engaging with our sector, recognising the central role we play in delivering housing at scale.
Governments across the country are calling for modular, offsite prefabrication as the best way to build more homes, more quickly. But for us, this is nothing new. Timber frame and truss manufacturers are the original offsite prefabricators. For over 50 years, our sector has delivered engineered, prefabricated building systems that reduce on-site labour, minimise waste, speed up construction, improve safety, and — critically — use a renewable material that lowers emissions in the built environment.
Quite simply, we are the structural backbone of Australia’s housing industry. Day in and day out, frame and truss businesses provide quality, reliable products that underpin the homes Australians live in.
GROWTH OF FTMA AUSTRALIA
Over the same 10-year period, FTMA Australia has also grown significantly. Today we represent over 61% of the national timber frame and truss manufacturing industry. In 2015, we had one staff member and our finance contractor, and now we have developed into a dynamic organisation that supports members across all facets of their business. Through the Frame & Truss National Safety Council we drive safety initiatives; our training and technical programs help build capability; our dedicated HR team assists members with workforce challenges; and each year we deliver new resources to strengthen businesses. As the industry adapts to new markets and seeks to regain market share from less sustainable building materials, FTMA will continue to stand alongside our members, ensuring they have the support, knowledge, and advocacy they need.
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES AHEAD
Looking forward, there are many opportunities — and challenges — on the horizon. The push for modular and prefabricated housing has encouraged new entrants to the market. The challenge is ensuring government recognises that the most effective way to achieve modern methods of construction is through a “kit of parts” or elemental approach. Our industry, with its half-century of expertise, is best placed to meet these demands and to continue delivering products that are already engineered, and trusted.
Australia’s housing market itself is shifting. Detached homes remain the mainstay of our sector, but growth in multi-residential and mid-rise construction requires us to adapt and capture these opportunities. If we do not, there is a real risk that less sustainable products or imported solutions could displace locally manufactured timber systems.
With one in every ten Australian jobs tied to the housing and construction sector, we must ensure homes continue to be built here, by Australians, with Australian timber. That will require continued innovation, investment in optimisation, and collaboration — the same principles that have guided our sector for decades.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Timber Trader News has been a valued partner in telling this story — celebrating our successes, challenging us to improve, and shining a light on the innovation within our sector. Congratulations once again on 40 years of service to the timber industry. I am confident that just as TTN has grown and adapted, so too will Australia’s timber frame and truss sector, continuing to provide the structural backbone of our housing industry for generations to come.
