Want to listen to our FICA Logger Mag updates instead of reading them? Here's how:
1. Update your settings (phones / tablets) or install this free audio reader extension (desktop / laptop):
a. iPhone: To use the built-in text-to-speech feature on your iPhone, go to:
Settings > Accessibility > Spoken Content and enable "Speak Selection" or "Speak Screen" to have the iPhone read selected text or the entire screen aloud, respectively.
b. Samsung: To activate and customize the text-to-speech "Read Aloud" feature on your Samsung Galaxy phone or tablet, navigate to Settings > Accessibility > Text-to-speech output, where you can choose your preferred engine, language, speech rate, and pitch.
c. Computer: Install Read Aloud: A Text to Speech Voice Reader. Then the orange megaphone icon should appear in the top right of your web browser - you can use the controls to play / stop / skip as needed.
2. If on your iPhone, select / highlight the text below and click 'speak' to listen. If you're on your computer, press the orange megaphone icon (normally in the top right of your web browser).
Connecting in Canterbury
Improving Production Workshop – Strong Engagement and Next Steps
FICA recently participated in the Forest Engineering Workshop: Managing Production for Cost-Effective Logging, bringing together contractors, researchers, and industry partners to focus on improving productivity and managing costs.
FICA presented alongside several members and sponsors, including:
Blair Cooper (OFM)
Scotty Saunders (Trimax Logging Co)
Jules Larsen (Waratah)
Logan Hammersley (Blackburne Group)
A key strength of the day was the strong involvement from contractors and industry practitioners.
Presentations focused on:
Practical ways to improve production efficiency
Managing cost pressures in a tightening market
Lessons learned from operational experience
Approaches to optimising harvesting systems
This emphasis on real-world application was well received and reinforced the value of contractor-led discussion.
Off the back of this success, FICA is now working with the University of Canterbury, with support from Waratah, to explore delivering similar workshops in the South Island. Watch this space.
