Hayden Timbers, a family-run hardwood sawmill located in Gum Scrub, New South Wales (near Port Macquarie on the mid-north coast), is a trusted name in sustainable timber processing on the Mid North Coast. Our partnership with Hayden Timbers ensures that the timber we harvest continues its journey with a processor that supports the long-term sustainability of Australia’s native forests, just as we do.
In this case study, discover how Hayden Timbers has overcome challenges in the timber industry while staying committed to sustainable practices. Learn how their versatility and innovation have powered their growth into one of the most respected timber operations in the region.
Four Generations of Harvesting/Sawmilling
This dynamic regional business has grown from strength to strength, from humble beginnings to a state of the art milling operation processing 40,000m3 of hardwood sawlogs each year.
The Hayden family has been involved in the timber industry for four generations, beginning in Lithgow before relocating to the Mid North Coast of NSW. In 1999, an opportunity became available to take over the reins of the old “Gum Scrub” mill with a single saw bench operation. In 2006, this site was expanded into a completely new sawmill by World Champion axeman Darrell Hayden. He had a clear vision: to create a sustainable, community-focused operation that delivered high-quality hardwood products, expanding significantly to becoming one of the most advanced hardwood mills in the state. Today, under an experienced management team including Sawmill Manager Trent, Hayden Timbers continues to honour this legacy while embracing the future.
With nearly two decades of experience, the company’s commitment to high-quality, sustainably sourced timber aligns seamlessly with sustainable forest management practices. Their strong partnership with Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) ensures that every log processed supports the long-term health of Australia’s forests, securing a sustainable future for both the industry and the environment.
A Skilled Local Workforce
Currently, Hayden Timbers employs 48 people, many of whom travel from within a 100km radius to work at the sawmill. Some team members begin their careers through a saw doctoring apprenticeship, a four-year training program that builds deep technical knowledge and craftsmanship. Investing in regional skills and long-term employment has helped the business grow sustainably and support the local economy.
Sustainable Sourcing and Processing
Hayden Timbers sources over half of its timber from Sustainable Forest Management, with the remaining supply coming from Forestry Corporation of NSW’s responsibly managed State Forests. The sawmill processes approximately seven truckloads of sawlogs per day, mostly sourced from within a 200km radius. This ensures a lower carbon footprint while maintaining a reliable supply of high-quality hardwoods.
By partnering with SFM, Hayden Timbers benefits from a forest management model that regenerates rather than depletes. SFM’s selective harvesting ensures the long-term health of native forests by removing a wide range of species, not just the most commercially valuable. This approach increases yield, reduces waste, and supports ecosystem diversity—principles Hayden Timbers has embraced wholeheartedly.
Read more in our Blog: How Australian Timber is Processed
A Transformative Partnership
Ten years ago, the partnership with SFM marked a turning point in the mill’s direction. Access to a more diverse range of species, continuity of supply, and shared responsibility across the timber journey have enabled Hayden Timbers to be more selective in its purchases while reducing internal staffing needs traditionally filled by a “bush boss”.
Historically, a bush boss was responsible for overseeing harvesting operations in the field, ensuring logs were sourced efficiently, and coordinating the supply chain between forest and mill. By working with SFM, Hayden Timbers no longer needs this in-house role, as SFM expertly manages the harvesting process, ensuring a steady and sustainable timber supply.
“SFM completely changed the direction of the mill,” says Trent. “We now have better access to timber, continuity of supply, and a broader range of species to work with. Unlike other operators who only harvest selected species, SFM works for the long-term health of the forest.”
The partnership not only benefits the mill but also improves outcomes for landowners, who receive fairer deals and the opportunity to buy back their own processed timber for fencing, furniture, or personal projects.
High-Quality Products for a Range of Markets
Hayden Timbers is known for its versatility. Unlike many specialist sawmills, it can process a wide variety of species and shift production to meet market demands. Their product range includes:
- Fencing
- Flooring
- Railway
- Mining (transported to NSW mines near Newcastle)
- General building/structural
- Furniture Grade
- Wood Chip for biomass power generation
This adaptability ensures resilience in fluctuating markets and helps keep the business competitive.
Versatility: A Key to Success
One of Hayden Timbers’ greatest strengths is its ability to adapt. Unlike many sawmills that specialise in just one type of timber, Hayden Timbers can cut a wide variety of species and shift production to best suit market demands. This flexibility allows the business to remain competitive and resilient, even in times of industry uncertainty.
Community, Culture, and Commitment
Beyond its economic role, Hayden Timbers is a key part of the local community. The business fosters a sense of purpose and belonging, providing stable employment and opportunities for skill development. It also contributes to broader forestry projects, including supplying timber to the Guulabaa – Place of Koala initiative, which combines Aboriginal heritage, forest ecology, and koala conservation (Minister Home Affairs).
Navigating Timber Challenges
Despite its successes, Hayden Timbers faces significant challenges. The biggest hurdle is log supply, which is increasingly impacted by political and regulatory conditions. Staffing is another concern, as the lack of long-term job security in the timber industry makes recruitment difficult. The uncertainty surrounding the future of native forestry in Australia, with potential legislative changes looming, further complicates business planning (AUSFPA).
Hayden Timbers has actively engaged in discussions with policymakers, advocating for the economic and environmental benefits of sourcing sustainable resources domestically. Their message is clear: a well-managed forest is not only a natural asset but a social and economic one too.
Advice for Landowners
Hayden Timbers encourages private native forest landowners to manage their land proactively. Responsible land management and selective harvesting reduces fuel loads and bushfire risks while keeping the forest productive. When working with partners like SFM, landowners can achieve long-term returns and improved forest health.
Looking Ahead
As Australia’s timber industry evolves, Hayden Timbers remains a powerful example of what is possible when sustainability, innovation, and community go hand in hand. Their partnership with SFM has provided the tools, knowledge, and forest access needed to thrive in an unpredictable landscape.
With deep roots and a forward-looking approach, Hayden Timbers is not just keeping up with the times—they’re helping shape the future of Australian forestry. Committed to harvesting responsibly, investing in local communities, and forging lasting partnerships to ensure the longevity of Australia’s forest resources.
If you’d like to partner with Sustainable Forest Management in responsibly managing your native forest get in touch today. Give us a call on 1300 367 378 and get started on your sustainable timber journey today.
