Kennedys Recycled Timber Brisbane

AGAINST THE GRAIN BLOG

Against the Grain Blog is an online extension of our quarterly publication by the same name. Our Blog features all articles from previous issues of our ATG publication, as well as other news and information from Kennedy's. As our library of articles and information grows this blog will become a valuable, user friendly, resource allowing you to easily locate the information you are looking for. Use the various links and tags to the right to filter blog posts based on your interest or requirements.

Spring Splendour

Tuesday, September 01, 2009

Grant’s Quiche

Ingredients:

  • 4 courgettes (zucchinis)
  • 1 large onion
  • 4 rashers of bacon
  • 1 cup of grated tasty cheese
  • 1 ½ cups of oil (vegetable or canola)
  • 5 eggs
  • 1 cup of flour
  • 2 tsp of baking powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chives (optional)

Method:

  • Slice courgettes, dice onion, cut bacon into small pieces
  • Lightly beat eggs and add all other ingredients, mix well
  • Place mixture into well oiled flan dish and cook for 40 minutes at 180c

You can use any vegetable in place of courgettes. Try spring onions, peas corn and so on. You can also add sliced tomato on top prior to cooking.

I like to chop a few chives and add to mixture.

Serve hot or cold, great with a nice green salad.

Bon Appétit!

Grant Cropp

Ship to Shore

Tuesday, September 01, 2009

export ready sustainable timber

With a reputation for unparalleled excellence within the national market, Kennedy’s quality timbers are now in high demand overseas.

Kennedy’s have developed a strong following for signature projects across Australia showcasing sustainable timbers.

This interest has now extended to the shores of nearby countries.

International markets including New Zealand and Japan have recognised the unique qualities Australian recycled timber has to offer. 

The natural features inherent in Australian recycled timber is greatly admired and consequently in high demand by timber enthusiasts worldwide. 

Australian recycled timber is renowned for its supreme character, strength and durability, resulting in a consistent, quality product.

As different countries have diverse building techniques, Kennedy’s have worked closely with international partners to develop specific products, profiles and packaging to meet the requirements of each individual market. 

Several product lines have been selected for exclusive distribution by our international associates.

Kennedy’s timbers are hand selected ensuring the delivery of high grade, quality products suitable for a vast range of end uses. 

With rigorous attention to detail, Kennedy’s international partners are assured each departing container has undergone strict audit, quality control and export compliance procedures. 

From the moment an enquiry or order is received, clients are guaranteed personalised service and expert advice from Kennedy’s experienced team.

With export ready sustainable timber in stock, Kennedy’s professional and flexible manufacturing process allows us to respond swiftly to the requirements of our export partners.

Kennedy’s commitment to on-time delivery provides our overseas partners with the opportunity to reduce their own stock holdings.

Many orders are packed and ready for shipment within 14 days of order confirmation.

Our commitment to superior products within the domestic market has resulted in increased demand for sustainable timber internationally, showcasing to the world Australia’s impressive recycled timber industry.

Several product lines have been selected for exclusive distribution by our international partners

OUR WAY - A New Way | Sense and Sensibility

Tuesday, September 01, 2009

a staff wide commitment to minimising waste

Kennedy’s recently implemented a Five S Program, further demonstrating our dedication to staff safety, efficient production and the local environment.

  • Sorting: Keep what is necessary and discard of waste responsibly
  • Systematic organisation: Clearly label storage areas
  • Shine: Perform programmed cleaning and schedule inspection and maintenance for all equipment
  • Standardise: Document good work practices
  • Sustain: Provide feedback, highlighting positive results and improvement where necessary

Our Five S Program is based upon the widely recognised eco pledge of Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Educate.

Kennedy’s staff are proud to honour the Five S Program, ensuring safe and effective work practices result in a positive outcome for all; clients, colleagues and the environment.

A Long Weekend... Every Weekend

With a steadfast commitment to site safety and family values, Kennedy’s production staff now enjoy working a four day week.

A recent initiative, this Monday to Thursday policy has been widely embraced, resulting in increased production and efficiency.

Kennedy’s production team, much like a large family themselves, benefit from the extra time provided for family and personal commitments, offering the ideal work/life balance.

As one production staff member commented “a long weekend, every weekend... it rocks.”

Next Generation Given Guided Tour

Tuesday, September 01, 2009

120 first year students from The University of Queensland (UQ) were recently given the opportunity to learn more about the value of recycled timbers whilst touring Kennedy’s extensive Narangba Production Facility.

An annual event for UQ’s School of Architecture, the keen cohort were warmly welcomed on site, witnessing firsthand the processes involved in transforming recycled timbers into a wide range of adaptable, environmentally friendly building products.

Kennedy’s is proud to support such educational experiences for future generations of industry talent.

For more information about touring Kennedy’s Narangba Production Facility please contact us.

Local Fish Goes Global with Gore

Tuesday, September 01, 2009

a crusade worthy of our best efforts

As an elected representative with the third largest council in Australia, Cr Chris Whiting is acutely aware of Australia’s responsibility to combat climate change.

Affectionately nicknamed ‘Fish’ by his friends and colleagues, Cr Whiting is an inspiring environmental devotee.

A dedicated local politician with 10 years experience, this former journalist and community campaigner understands his ability to make a difference.

With a personal and professional commitment to educating constituents about climate change, Cr Whiting recently attended former US Vice President Al Gore’s Climate Project Summit in Melbourne.

One of 200 attendees selected from a pool of 2000 applicants, Cr Whiting spent two days training as a community educator with global warming as the central focus.

Returning as a ‘foot soldier’ of the climate change crusade, Cr Whiting believes the challenge to save our environment, locally and globally, is worthy of our best efforts.

Taking a hands-on approach to positive environmental change for our local residential and manufacturing communities, Chris Whiting currently serves as the Councillor for Division 2 with the Moreton Bay Regional Council.

Island Endeavour

Tuesday, September 01, 2009

family retreat honours environment

With panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, one couple’s dream has been realised upon the sands of a Queensland island.

Situated on picturesque North Stradbroke, this unique holiday retreat has been a family venture turn adventure.

Built by Graeme Maher, his son and two sons-in-law (all builders themselves), the residence was largely designed by Graeme’s wife Sue, culminating in an extraordinary family endeavour.

All contributing to the detailed construction, the 7 bedroom home now offers the ideal escape for weekends away and holidays for the extended family.

With sustainable building in mind, Sue sought out Kennedy’s quality products to lay ground to their splendid timber decks.

Salvaged from the Albion Flour Mill, Kennedy’s premium recycled iron bark and spotted gum was also applied to the home’s extensive cladding and flooring.

Sue commented “many visitors admire the timber cladding” noting its incredible ability to blend with the environment.

Respecting the local landscape, the house was built to incorporate a native Box Gum in the centre of the deck, further embracing its natural surroundings.

For three generations of family members, this superb holiday home offers a wealth of adventure, relaxation and rejuvenation in what truly can be described as an island retreat.

With exquisite sunsets and glistening ocean views, the house wouldn’t be complete without its own whale watch tower... and the odd bottle of champagne to toast the spectacular sea creatures passing by.

Kennedy’s premium recycled timber graces the home’s extensive decking, cladding and flooring

Industry Elite Visit

Tuesday, September 01, 2009

Kennedy’s recently hosted 43 of Australia’s leading foresters for a 2 hour tour and fact finding mission at our new recycled pole/bridge processing facility and kiln drying operation.

Recognising Kennedy’s commitment to timber which does not cost OUR Earth, the elite group were fascinated to witness firsthand a world class facility in action, highlighting the rich environmental benefits of our recycled timber industry.

Gettin’ Square

Tuesday, September 01, 2009

revitalising Brisbane’s iconic central meeting place

Brisbane’s inner city civic space, King George Square, is currently undergoing a revitalisation. Developed as a public space during the 1960’s, the site adjoins Brisbane’s heritage listed community and artistic hub, City Hall.

Including two new busway entrances and an innovative amphitheatre, Kennedy’s premium grade recycled timbers have taken centre stage as part of the widely anticipated refurbishment.

Supplying 4 kilometres of hand rails and 9 kilometres of seating, the mix of quality iron bark and lemon scented spotted gum has been precision profiled and docked to length.

Salvaged from a number of local demolition sites, these recycled timbers offer the redeveloped space a green alternative to traditional building products.

The creation of Urbis, the contemporary design for the new look city square is being brought to life by Kane Constructions. With 4 major milestones originally planned for the project, the redevelopment is currently nearing the end of milestone 3.

An attractive, functional yet timeless space, the extensive revitalisation of the prominent square will offer locals and visitors a sense of history, proudly celebrated in a modern setting reflecting the very heart of Brisbane City.

The new look King George Square is set to launch in October 2009.

Links:

An Afternoon with Erin Brokovich

Tuesday, September 01, 2009

At a recent presentation hosted by Brisbane firm Shine Lawyers, Michael Kennedy caught up with legendary environmental campaigner Erin Brokovich.

With her life’s story and inspiring tale brought to life on the big screen in an academy award winning film, Erin continues to publicly support environmental causes and victims of asbestos exposure as President of Brockovich Research and Consulting.

A Grade Above

Tuesday, September 01, 2009

interim industry recycled timber standards

First released in July 2008, the Interim Industry Standard for Recycled Timber offers recycled timber manufacturers, suppliers and users specific grading guidelines.

Published by the Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA), the objective of the guiding principles is to provide the Australian recycled timber industry with a professional and consistent standard.

The two guides available outline the requirements for visually grading recycled hardwood timber intended for structural use and decorative applications.

An interim standard, this is the first time visual grading rules have been developed for recycled timber in Australia.

The publications outline specific key points and considerations in addition to general, product and grading requirements.

Kennedy’s are proud to have played a significant role in initiating, drafting and financing the production of these essential, timely documents.

All Kennedy’s recycled timbers are now graded and supplied according to the new standards. Our Timber Grading Team (pictured right) have become well versed in grading and hand selecting every piece of timber we supply to our valued clients.

We believe these standards are the perfect tool for every architect, designer and builder.

Kennedy’s encourages all within the industry to embrace the interim standard, ensuring a benchmark for consistency and quality for all recycled timber consumers.


Kennedys Recycled Timber Brisbane