F&T Time with Kersten Gentle

Hosted by Kersten Gentle

Business News

Website RSS feed

Episodes

Latest episode

Oct 2026

Language

EN-AU

About the show

FTMA News presents F&T Time with Kersten Gentle, a podcast series aimed at keeping the Australian timber frame and truss industry connected and updated.

Listen to episodes

36 recent

October 8, 2026Episode 533 min

S5 Ep 5: Future Framing Initiative with Jon Shanks

Future Framing Initiative with Jon Shanks The future of lightweight timber framing is changing, and our sector needs to be ready for it. In this episode of F&T Time, Kersten Gentle sits down with Jon Shanks from the University of Tasmania to talk about the Future Framing Initiative and the work underway to modernise lightweight timber framing in Australia. They discuss the development of the new Lightweight Timber Framing Standard, the research being undertaken through AFWI, and how this work could help frame and truss manufacturers move beyond detached housing and into growing multi-residential and mid-rise markets. Most importantly, they look at what these changes could mean for manufacturers, the opportunities ahead, and why our sector needs to be involved now in shaping its future. Don’t forget, if you want to have your say, visit fwpa.com.au and sign up, so you will be alerted to when the standard is released for public comment.

August 10, 2026Episode 420 min

S5 Ep 4: Responsible Wood, PEFC and What Certification Means for Frame & Truss

What does timber certification actually mean, and why should frame and truss manufacturers care? In this episode of F&T Time, Kersten Gentle sits down with Simon Dorries from Responsible Wood to cut through the jargon around Responsible Wood, PEFC and Chain of Custody certification. They discuss why certification is becoming increasingly important, what it means for the frame and truss sector, and how manufacturers can demonstrate that the timber they use comes from responsibly managed forests and plantations. Importantly, Simon explains how frame and truss manufacturers can achieve Chain of Custody certification through a group certification program, such as one facilitated by FTMA Australia, helping to reduce the cost and make certification more accessible for businesses wanting to get involved. If you've heard about Responsible Wood or PEFC but aren't quite sure what it means for your business, this episode is well worth a listen. To learn more visit the Responsible Wood Website

July 27, 2026Episode 319 min

S5 Ep 3: Let's Put Timber Back in the Conversation

What if Australia's timber industry spoke with one voice? In this episode of F&T Time, Kersten Gentle is joined by Sarah Downey, Head of Marketing and Communications at Forest & Wood Products Australia (FWPA), to discuss the new 14 week national campaign, Let's Put Timber Back in the Conversation . Together, FTMA Australia and WoodSolutions are encouraging manufacturers, suppliers and everyone connected to the industry to confidently promote the many benefits of lightweight timber framing. The conversation explores why the campaign was created, how simple weekly resources can help businesses start more conversations about timber, and why thousands of people sharing the same positive message can have a greater impact than any advertising campaign. Whether you're a manufacturer, supplier, builder or simply passionate about timber, this episode is your invitation to help tell Australia's timber story, one conversation at a time. If you want to be involved contact Kersten Gentle - kersten@ftma.com.au

May 12, 2026Episode 226 min

S5 Ep 2: Generations of Timber with the Harvey Family

In this episode of FTMA’s F&T Time Podcast, we sit down with three generations of the Harvey family, Jeff, Steve, and Alyssa. whose combined passion and dedication have helped shape the timber industry through their work with Bowens and Timbertruss. Jeff, fondly known as the “timber man,” reflects on a remarkable 60-plus year career driven by a deep respect for timber as a sustainable, living resource. His story is one of commitment, knowledge, and an enduring belief in the vital role timber plays in both construction and the environment. Together, the Harvey family share insights into how this passion has been passed down, with Steve and Alyssa continuing the legacy while bringing fresh perspectives to a changing industry. From the values that have guided their journey to the evolving future of timber, this conversation highlights the importance of family, innovation, and sustainability. It’s a powerful reminder that behind every strong industry are the people and stories that bring it to life. These are the kind of stories, that make you love this forest and wood products industry. Real People, real passion, real stories!

April 30, 2026Episode 114 min

S5 Ep 1: Smarter Lifting with Palfinger: Insights Ahead of the FTMA National Conference (18–19 May)

In this episode of F&T Time , we sit down with Dave Murray, National Sales Manager at Palfinger Australia, to unpack the role of crane technology in the frame and truss industry. With extensive experience across transport and lifting solutions, Dave shares practical insights into selecting the right equipment, why fit-for-purpose matters, and how manufacturers can improve safety and efficiency on site. The conversation explores key considerations when choosing a truck-mounted crane, as well as the emerging trends and innovations shaping the future of lifting in our sector. It’s a grounded, real-world discussion focused on helping manufacturers make smarter, more informed decisions in their operations. This episode also ties into the upcoming 2026 FTMA National Conference & Trade Expo, where these conversations continue in person—bringing together industry leaders, suppliers, and manufacturers from across the country.

January 29, 2025Episode 129 min

S4 Ep 1: Steps Towards a Greener Future

Welcome back to the F&T Time podcast for 2025! For the first episode of the new season, we are joined by Dr. Alastair Woodard, a renowned expert in sustainable building practices and author of the ground-breaking report Steps Towards a Greener Future . We dive into critical findings from the report, which outlines a roadmap for reducing embodied carbon in construction while meeting Australia’s urgent housing goals under the National Housing Accord. Dr. Woodard shares his expert insights into the pivotal role of timber and other low-carbon materials in creating durable, high-quality homes that support net zero ambitions. We also discuss the 23 practical recommendations introduced in the report, spanning government policy, industry collaboration, and education initiatives that can transform the construction sector. Whether you're a builder, policymaker, environmental advocate, or simply interested in sustainable housing, this episode is packed with invaluable knowledge and actionable solutions to inspire change. You can download the Steps Towards a Greener Future report by hitting the Resources page on ftmanews.com !

December 16, 2024Episode 726 min

S3 Ep 7: Tech Talk and the Year Ahead

As we close out another remarkable year, we’re taking the opportunity to reflect on the key engineering and technical challenges that have shaped our industry over the past twelve months. This episode will shine a spotlight on the vital role offsite prefabrication has played, supported by the unwavering expertise of esteemed professionals from MiTek, Multinail, and Pryda. Our special guest engineers also look ahead and discuss what challenges and/or opportunities lie for the frame and truss industry in 2025. Episode Guests: Varun Bharti of MiTek David Zhang of Multinail Nick Cui of Pryda

August 30, 2024Episode 619 min

S3 Ep 6: Maximising Savings with Choice Energy: Strategies for FTMA Members

In this episode of the F&T Time Podcast, we catch up with Christopher Dean, CEO of FTMA Supporting Partner, Choice Energy, to discuss the intricacies of energy management in today's challenging economic environment. With rising energy costs and a shifting market, we delve into effective strategies that FTMA members can utilise to not only manage their energy consumption but also to achieve significant savings. Chris shares insights on innovative solutions and successful initiatives that empower businesses to lower expenses and their environmental impact. The episode also explains how you could win a month's FREE electricity! So, join us as we navigate the path to sustainable energy practices and discover how making informed energy decisions can translate into substantial financial benefits for your business.

July 11, 2024Episode 522 min

S3 Ep 5: The Heart and Soul of 'Fatherhood Unfiltered' with Deano & Damo

In this heartfelt and engaging episode of the F&T Time Podcast, we sit down with two FTMA Member, Dean Kidd and Damien Whitnell, the creators of the upcoming "Fatherhood Unfiltered" podcast. Dean and Damo share their personal journeys as fathers and the pivotal moments that inspired them to create a supportive platform for dads everywhere. They discuss their vision and objectives for "Fatherhood Unfiltered," exploring themes of mental health, community-building, and providing practical advice to help fathers navigate the complexities of modern parenting. Tune in to hear their passionate mission to make the experience of fatherhood less isolating and more connected, offering valuable insights and encouragement for all listeners.

May 21, 2024Episode 423 min

S3 Ep 4: Housing All Australians

In this episode of F&T Time, we are joined by Robert Pradolin, Founding Director of Housing All Australians, who reminds us that the fight against homelessness and the quest for affordable housing in Australia, isn't confined to policymakers or builders alone. It's a mission that belongs to all of us. Every one of us has a role to play, whether through advocacy, investment, or by simply spreading the word. We take a closer look at how timber prefabrication is being leveraged to not only expedite the construction process for Housing All Australians' upcoming Marrickville project, but also to significantly reduce costs, making the dream of affordable housing a tangible reality for many Australians. Join us for this episode as we explore the vision, the challenges, and the profound social impact of this initiative and why it represents a beacon of hope for the future of housing in Australia. Together, we can build more than just houses. We can build a future where everyone has a place to call home.