F&T Time with Kersten Gentle

Hosted by Kersten Gentle

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Episodes

Latest episode

May 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

33 recent

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 MiTekDavid Zhang of MultinailNick 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.

March 22, 2024Episode 320 min

S3 Ep 3: Sustainable Forestry - A Critical Part of the Answer

Listeners may remember today's guest from season one, however this time he joins us as the Executive Director of International Sustainable Forestry Coalition!This insightful episode with guest Ross Hampton, looks at the important role sustainable forestry plays in the fight against climate change and the great announcements that came out of COP28 at the end of 2023.

January 23, 2024Episode 223 min

S3 Ep 2: Sustainable Construction Practices Helping Create a Greener Future

In this enlightening episode of F&T Time, we sit down with Hamish White, a Founding Builder of the Sustainable Builders Alliance (SBA). Hamish's dedication to a more sustainable construction industry is truly inspiring, and we delve into the transformative work the SBA is doing to reduce emissions and carbon footprint in construction. Born out of Builders Declare Australia, the SBA is driven to revolutionise construction practices for the betterment of our planet. FTMA proudly aligns ourselves with their mission through our Carbon Warrior arm, and as a Gold Sponsor of SBA. Join us as we explore the concept of building net-zero sustainable homes, the role of a certified passive house tradesperson, and the significant role timber plays in sustainable construction. Don't miss this compelling discussion with Hamish as we delve into the future of green construction.

January 19, 2024Episode 110 min

S3 Ep 1: An Exciting 2024 Ahead!

FTMA is back again for another season of our podcast series, F&T Time! This first episode of the new season looks at the exciting year ahead, including the 2024 National Conference which is the only national conference specifically curated for timber frame and truss fabricators. Enjoy listening and remember, this is YOUR podcast! We're always open to topic suggestions or questions, so don't hesitate to connect 📨Here's to another great year at FTMA! 🥂🎉Stay tuned, stay informed, and let's frame the future together! 🔊👥