Oxen offloading logs at Thesens Sawmill. Pic by discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com
Adam Stander was born in the Knysna forest in 1928 and given two birth days, 22 November, when his name was carved on a tree to note his birth and 28 November, the day his woodcutter father travelled into town and registered his son’s birth.
The Knysna forest, which forms part of the “Garden Route” on South Africa’s southern coastline, was historically significant from colonial times as a natural timber resource used for fuelwood, construction, shipbuilding, furniture, and other purposes.
Life was hard
Life was hard for forest woodcutters. Boys from a young age laboured in their father’s harvesting team and were taken out of school when they were about 12 to work full-time. It was a challenging and dangerous life, with woodcutters working and camping in hazardous conditions to harvest and transport trees out of the forest to sawmills in Knysna.
Adam often regaled his daughter, Dalena Wolmarans, with stories of growing up and working with his father, and later with his own oxen, deep in the Knysna forest.
“Good for” payments
Woodcutters were usually paid with a “Good for” list of items they could exchange for their timber, including foodstuffs like sweet potatoes, flour, and coffee. This meant that no money was exchanged, which made it nearly impossible to save and break free from this kind of life.
On one occasion, potatoes were left in the fire overnight to cool. The elephants paid the camp a visit after dark, scratched out the potato treats and ate the men’s breakfast! Another time, the bread was five days old and too hard to eat. The men rolled it into hard balls that they threw at a few luckless doves, managing to kill them for dinner.
In 1913, a new Forest Act required woodcutters to register to practise their trade. The register of that time reflects 1,260 woodcutters.
The trees were numbered, and the registered men had to draw numbers out of a hat to obtain the trees they were allowed to harvest. They often had to walk deep into the forest to find and fell the allocated tree. Frequently, it was in a deep valley or on a steep slope, making it backbreaking to extract.
By this time, the government realised that harvesting indigenous timber was unsustainable and promoted the planting of pine plantations.
In those days trains were also used to extract logs from the Garden Route indigenous forests. Pic by Discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com
Adam Stander legacy
Adam had an entrepreneurial spirit and was determined to work his way out of the forest. In 1950, the owner of a Knysna garage was so impressed by the young man’s resolve that he did an unheard-of thing in those days and loaned him the money to buy a truck.
For almost 30 years, AJJ Stander Vervoer transported pine for Thesens Sawmill, the largest sawmill in the area at the time, until its wood yard burned down. Thereafter, he hauled timber for Urbans Sawmill in George.
He also established Adam Stander Houtverkope and a sawmill until he handed the reins to Dalena to continue growing the family legacy.
The future of forestry: How drones are set to transform the industry
Greg Fuller - ICFR Technical Manager. Pic courtesy of ICFR
By Greg Fuller, Institute for Commercial Forestry Research (ICFR) Technical Manager
As we look towards the future of forestry operations, one technology is emerging as a true game-changer: drones. In the next five years, we can expect drone technology to transform forest management by integrating precision applications and advanced spatial analytics, enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and data-driven decision-making.
Precision applications
The use of drones in plantation forestry is rapidly transforming the way forests are monitored and managed. With high-resolution, multi-temporal imagery, drones provide foresters with a powerful tool to assess tree health, track tree growth rates, and detect early signs of pests or diseases. Advanced remote sensing technologies, such as multispectral and LiDAR imaging, allow for precise mapping of canopy structure, biomass estimation, and detailed quantification of carbon pools.
Beyond forest health monitoring, drones are streamlining inventory management by delivering accurate tree counts and volume estimations, significantly reducing the time and cost associated with traditional field surveys.
Their ability to cover vast areas quickly also makes them indispensable for assessing abiotic damage from fire, drought, or hail, and even unauthorised logging activities. By integrating drone-collected data with advanced analytics, plantation managers can optimise resource allocation, improve silvicultural practices, and enhance overall forest sustainability.
Drones are also increasingly being used for the precision application of pesticides and herbicides for weed control in both commercial and conservation areas, a crucial advancement that minimises human exposure to hazardous chemicals while reducing reliance on inefficient blanket spraying methods. As technology continues to evolve, drones are set to become an essential tool in the future of precision forestry.
However, there is a caveat, as transformation hinges on supportive legislation, particularly the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) laws governing UAV operations.
Overcoming legislative hurdles
Despite the promising prospects of drone technology in forestry, the journey has not been without challenges. In South Africa, stringent legislative and regulatory requirements have posed significant hurdles to the legal compliance of AUV operations. Obtaining a Remote Pilot Licence (RPL) and securing additional permissions, such as the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operating Certificate (UASOC), is a daunting, time-consuming, and costly process. It often requires weeks of study and up to R100,000 in expenses just to become a registered operator.
Reform of the current South African UAV legislation is needed for the forestry sector to be able to unlock the true potential of this technology.
That said, the potential for drones in forestry is limitless! While becoming a certified drone pilot was at times daunting, it has ultimately been a rewarding experience. Piloting cutting-edge technology and contributing to the industry with newly acquired skills has been incredibly fulfilling.
I am deeply grateful for the confidence and support from the ICFR and Forestry South Africa (FSA), and I look forward to seeing more industry-led projects that leverage the valuable resources established at the ICFR soon.
Source: Article posted on the ICFR website on 5 March 2025.
Perseverance, passion, and purpose are the roots of leadership
"Forestry became part of who I am before I even understood it was a career," comments Yoliswa Dlamini, attributing her passion for forestry to her late father, Gervas. "He was my greatest inspiration and guiding light, and his legacy continues to direct my path and purpose in this field".
Yoliswa grew up in Melmoth, a small town in Zululand, South Africa. On weekends and during holidays, she followed her forester father into the plantations. She learned to operate farm machinery and helped with harvesting operations while other kids were playing games.
At 37, Yoliswa brings 15 years of industry expertise to her role as a Silviculture Forester. This is underpinned by a BSc, an MBA, and an impressive array of business qualifications, all earned while working full-time. But her credentials don't tell the whole story.
As the first woman in management at several plantations, Yoliswa faced significant challenges in a traditionally male-dominated sector.
Her empathetic approach was mistaken for weakness, her soft-spoken manner was perceived as lacking authority, and deep-rooted cultural attitudes that challenge female leadership in operational roles led to periods of self-doubt. Yet, "each experience shaped my growth and leadership journey," she says.
As Safety Manager at Sappi Highveld (2017–2019), Yoliswa led a team that recorded zero Lost Time Injuries, and since 2019, she's also consistently delivered fully stocked compartments ahead of scheduled audits. A defining moment in her career came earlier, in 2012, however, when she independently managed disaster fires involving both ground and aerial teams. This was an intense challenge that earned her special recognition from Komatiland Forests and the Working on Fire programme.
Her work hasn't gone unnoticed. Forestry South Africa (FSA) selected Yoliswa to represent women in forestry on behalf of Sappi in the She Is Forestrycampaign in 2023. Alongside her team, they also won the Environmental Award twice and the KZN Elite District Award. In 2024, Duzi Forestry Engineers invited her to speak on "Women in Leadership", highlighting the importance of women uplifting others while advancing in the corporate sector.
"Each achievement reminds me that perseverance, passion, and purpose are the true roots of leadership", she shares.
Yoliswa says she finds inspiration in her roles as a mother, sister, and aunt. To her, Women's Day affirms the "power" of sisterhood. "Fixing each other's crowns, silently and gracefully, with a shared purpose and positive spirit, is a form of strength that inspires and empowers," she continues. "There's nothing a woman cannot achieve when she sets her mind to it."
Yoliswa Dlamini
Reflecting on women in forestry, she says, "leadership comes naturally to many women, and their multitasking abilities are truly a blessing. These qualities enable effective leadership that creates environments of respect, collaboration, and growth. I call this the 'guide and grace of the feminine'", she comments.
"That said, we deeply value our male colleagues. Forestry is physically demanding and requires stamina, teamwork, and contributions from everyone, regardless of gender. Together, we build a stronger, more resilient industry".
For women considering forestry careers, Yoliswa emphasises that being a forester is rewarding because there are diverse and impactful opportunities in the sector. She says the following mantras guide and sustain her:
Empowerment begins within
Mentor and nurture one another
Create opportunities for your sister to shine
Remove obstacles and stand in her corner
Encourage her to realise her full potential
Understand what matters to her
Lead by example - not words alone
When given the baton, run your race to the finish line.
As South Africa marks National Women's Day on 9 August, Husqvarna South Africa honours professionals like Yoliswa Dlamini, women who are shaping the sector's future.
John Deere helps you OUTRUN THEM ALL
Introducing John Deere's new 2144G forestry swing machine - built for the woods.
AFGRI introduces John Deere's new 2144G forestry swing machine - built for the woods. Efficient. Agile. Productive. The John Deere 2144G Swing Machine is changing the way forestry professionals tackle timber harvesting. Purpose-built with insights from the people who live and breathe harvesting, the G-Series machine doesn't just meet expectations, it resets them.
The John Deere 2144G tracked swing harvester is ideal for fast-growing, high-yield plantations
Efficient. Agile. Productive. The John Deere 2144G Swing Machine is changing the way forestry professionals tackle timber harvesting. Purpose-built with insights from the people who live and breathe harvesting, the G-Series machine doesn't just meet expectations — it resets them.
Born in the forest
A swing machine that's tough, smart, and designed for you. Backed by decades of experience and refined through rigorous field testing, the 2144G G-Series delivers everything you need for productive, low-maintenance harvesting in even the most challenging conditions.
Nothing is out of reach
The local supplier of John Deere equipment, Afgri, states that the machine's 9.37m maximum boom reach and options to fit a H225E, H216, or a H219 Harvesting Head for Eucalyptus and pine (pulp or sawtimber) plantations make it the ideal machine for Southern African conditions.
Engineered from proven 25-ton excavator components, the 2144G delivers rugged performance, a durable swing system, and a rock-solid undercarriage. Whether you're working steep slopes or dense stands, it's built to go the distance.
Robust cooling system to keep hydraulic temperature low
Hydraulic reversing fan clears debris and saves fuel
Heavy-duty track chain and nine-roller track frame for superior stability
With a 585L fuel tank and arm-mounted chain oil reservoir, this machine keeps going long after others have called it a day.
A Cab that works as hard as you do
Step into a workspace designed for the long haul. Built with operators in mind, the 2144 G's ROPS/FOPS/OPS-certified cab redefines comfort, visibility, and control.
Spacious layout with isolation mounts for reduced noise and vibration
Ergonomic short-throw pilot levers for smoother operation
Efficient HVAC system and air-ride seating
High-visibility polycarbonate windows and an optional 4-point seat belt
You will feel the difference — especially on long days in rough terrain.
Preprogrammed productivity modes
With preprogrammed productivity modes (Economy, Power, and High-Productivity), the 2144G puts power and fuel efficiency at your fingertips. Machine owners can even lock in specific modes for consistent performance and better fuel savings.
Intuitive LCD display with multilingual support
Easy diagnostics with JDLink remote monitoring
Seamless integration with Waratah processing heads, factory-installed and fully supported.
An optional 12-light LED package ensures nothing slows you down when the sun goes down. Whether you're navigating narrow plantation rows or tackling late-night jobs, the 2144G lights the way.
Durability isn't a feature — it's a foundation. The 2144G is built around proven John Deere components and backed by a 10,000-hour structural warranty, giving you the confidence to push your operations further.
The base machine is designed to carry Waratah attachments for harvesting pine and eucalyptus trees
Performance you can count on
PowerTech Plus 6.8L engine
Remote diagnostics and fast dealer response
Simple maintenance access from ground level
Improved fuel economy and service intervals
The 2144G G-Series Swing Machine is more than a machine — it's a partner built for your pace. Designed with your feedback, tested in the woods, and supported by John Deere's legacy of reliability, this machine is ready to work when you are.
To find success in the forest, you can wait for the perfect set of conditions or give yourself every advantage to create your own. Productive machines. Innovative technology. Useful insights. Dependable support. A complete set of solutions that only one equipment manufacturer can provide.
The obstacles to success are many. John Deere helps you OUTRUN THEM ALL.
Source: Advertorial supplied by Afgri.
Winch-assisted Cobras tackle steep slopes in KZN’s Midlands and Zululand
The steep angle of the slope presents no challenges for Mooiplaas Forestryand Cintasign Forestry contractors
Steep slopes are one of the new frontiers of mechanised harvesting systems as forestry companies and contractors seek to find the safest, most productive and cost-effective means of harvesting timber.
Steep-slope harvesting machines require exceptional power, balance, and control, as well as a highly skilled operator. However, they also need a system for tethering the machine to a stable point at the top of the slope to ensure the safety of both the operator and the machine.
There are various tethering systems in use around the world, including standalone winches and winches attached to excavators stationed at the top of the slope.
Synchrowinch
Leading the way in this regard is Ponsse, the Finnish manufacturer that has taken steep slope harvesting to the next level. Key to the success of the Ponsse steep slope machines is the built-in Herzog Synchrowinch that is synchronised with the transmission of the harvester or forwarder, allowing it to automatically spool in and out as the machine works across the slope.
This enables the operator to focus on felling, processing, and extracting trees. The machines need to be able to operate on the slope under their own braking system. At the same time, the tether provides increased traction and serves as an additional safety net.
Because the winch spools automatically from the machine end, the cable is always static, which reduces wear and tear. It also provides extra traction, resulting in less soil damage.
Clear-felled steep slopes in Kwa-Zulu NatalThe Operator decides on the best tether pointThe Ponsse Cobra's Herzog Synchrowinch tether increases traction and safety
Cobra clear felling at an angle
Two highly experienced harvesting contractors operating in KwaZulu-Natal have recently invested in winch-assisted Ponsse Cobra wheeled harvesters, which are capable of working safely on slopes of up to 70% or more.
The Cobra harvester enables Cintasign Forestry and Mooiplaas Forestry contractors to deploy fully mechanised systems to safely fell, process, and extract timber productively and cost-effectively. Mooiplaas added the Ponsse Elephant King forwarder, also fitted with the synchrowinch, to its order.
An advantage of the Ponsse Cobra is its versatility. It’s ideal for cut-to-length clear-felling or thinning operations. It is equally adept working in gum or pine on flat or steep slopes, thanks to the design of the bogeys and the levelling capabilities of the crane base and operator cockpit. It’s extremely well-balanced, even in rough and uneven terrain, ensuring maximum operator comfort and safety.
The machines were delivered in February this year. Ponsse harvesting experts from Finland spent time in South Africa providing specialised theoretical and practical in-field training to the contractors’ operators and maintenance teams, familiarising them with the machines and helping them understand the dynamics of working on steep slopes.
Cintasign Forestry
“It’s meeting all of our requirements”, comments Quinton Preen of Cintasign Forestry, which is contracted to do harvesting in the KZN Midlands area for Mondi.
Quinton is a second-generation logger with 30 years of experience. His father, Don Preen, began forestry harvesting in the 1950s, using bow saws and then chainsaws. Quinton joined the business in 1995.
Mondi requires a full compartment mechanised solution, which means the contractor must harvest every tree on the plantation mechanically, explains Quinton.
The Ponsse Cobra can work safely on slopes of 70% or more, depending on conditonsThe versatile Ponsse Cobra is at home on steep slopes and flat terrain
Cintasign uses the Ponsse Cobra on steep slopes and flat areas alongside their track-based excavators, as there are not enough steep slopes to keep them busy full-time. Thus, the Ponsse Cobra gives the Cintasign harvesting team more flexibility within their harvesting fleet to cover all the tasks required to meet the contract requirements.
They also have a Ponsse Bison forwarder extracting timber from in-field areas and handling short-haul operations.
The Cintasign team identified three operators for training on the Cobra, and they are already working comfortably on slopes of up to around 60%. Quinton says the Cobra has the potential to work on slopes of up to 70% or 80%, depending on the ground conditions. Still, operators need a bit more experience to become comfortable on such slopes.
He says that the Cobra, which is equipped with a Ponsse H7 Euca head, matches the productivity of excavator-based harvesters on small trees; however, “We get 20% to 30% better performance in big tree sizes compared to the tracked excavators”.
Safety is a significant advantage of the Cobra when operating on steep slopes. It comes equipped with a powerful Herzog Synchrowinch, which is tethered to a tree stump at the top of the slope while in operation. The Cobra works on the slope under its own braking system, while the winch merely provides assistance.
What prompted the Cintasign team to opt for the Ponsse Cobra? Quinton says they have a Ponsse Bison forwarder and are using Ponsse H7 Euca heads on their excavator-based harvesters, so it makes sense to stick with the same equipment manufacturer.
The Ponsse machines operating in South Africa are well supported by MTS Parts. “The guys have done pretty well”, Quinton comments.
Mooiplaas Forestry
Dewald Martens of Mooiplaas Forestry, who contracts for Sappi and Mondi in the Melmoth area of Zululand, has also invested in a Ponsse Cobra, paired with a Ponsse Elephant King forwarder.
Dewald’s father started the forestry contracting business back in 1982, and he joined the company a few years later. His brother Lukas is also involved in the business.
Dewald says the Cobra and Elephant King are an ideal solution for Mondi’s preference for fully mechanised harvesting systems.
“We’re taking out all the timber mechanically, that’s the way we are going”, says Dewald. “The Ponsse Cobra and Elephant King are a nice combo for the steep slopes”.
Both machines are equipped with synchro-winch systems. When winch assistance is required, the operators park the machine, attach the winch to a sturdy tree or stump at the top of the slope, and are ready to go.
Dewald says that while the Cobra is a cost-effective and productivity-enhancing solution for steep slopes, it also outperforms the other machines in their fleet by 10% to 20% on flat areas, making it a versatile option.
Dewald said they have received good support from the Ponsse steep slope harvesting experts, who spent a week on site soon after the Cobra was delivered in February this year.
“We’ve had good support from them on the training side, and they are coming back again in a few months to do more training”, says Dewald. “The machines are doing what they are supposed to do, and we haven’t had any issues”.
MTS Parts
Chris Odendaal and his company, MTS Parts, distribute and support Ponsse machines in South Africa. Chris says the Cobras are the first purpose-built, winch-assisted machines operating in the country.
“They are revolutionising steep slope harvesting around the world, improving the safety and productivity of forestry operations that have posed considerable challenges for growers and contractors”, Chris comments.
John Deere brings the new 2144G Tracked Harvester to Southern Africa
The John Deere 2144G tracked swing harvester is ideal for fast-growing, high-yield plantations
John Deere is introducing a lower-cost, purpose-built forestry harvester to the Southern African market.
Designed and manufactured in Brazil, the 2144G track-based purpose-built machine has been very successful in harvesting fast-growing, high-yield (FGHY) plantations, which are the backbone of Brazilian and South African forestry. It is around this culture that the 2144G was developed.
John Deere has designed the base machine to carry Waratah European attachments for harvesting eucalyptus and pine plantations. The Waratah heads include the two-roller H216E, H216, H219 options, and the four-roller H424, H425, H425HD models.
The 2144G is equipped with features designed for rugged forestry applications, delivering uptime, efficiency, and lower operating costs.
Operator comfort and safety
The top-of-the-line cab is equipped with features designed to enhance operator productivity. More importantly, it is fully ROPS/FOPS/OPS certified, ensuring the operator's protection.
It's built with fatigue-beating features, including superb window clarity, efficient climate control through a proven air-distribution system, air-ride suspension seats, and ergonomic controls. The monitor is easy to read and offers a wealth of machine data and functions, helping deliver the information operators need to optimise productivity.
Durable structures
Based on proven components, the robust and durable swing system and track, as well as the X-frame and mainframe structures, are designed to withstand the most rugged applications and deliver long-lasting performance.
The robust boom-to-mainframe interface and large-diameter boom pin extend boom life and lessen the possibility of unscheduled maintenance. The nine-roller track frame and optional heavy-duty track chain provide excellent stability and reduced wear on undercarriage components.
Safety is a priority and the top of the line cab is ROPS, FOPS and OPS certifiedThe base machine is designed to carry Waratah attachments for harvesting pine and eucalyptus trees
Solid engine reliability
The John Deere PowerTech Plus 6.8L EPA Tier 3/EU Stage IIIA engine enhances uptime. It offers a strong balance of power and efficiency while maintaining excellent fuel economy.
Hydraulic reversing fan
The hydraulically driven, variable-speed fan runs only when needed, conserving power and fuel. It automatically reverses airflow to eject debris from the cooler cores, thereby increasing the cooler's maintenance intervals. Large, durable, and high-capacity coolers, along with optimised airflow, help reduce hydraulic operating temperatures, extending the life of components.
24-hour power
The total fuel capacity of 585 litres, combined with the chain oil reservoir in the arm, allows for all-day action and uninterrupted productivity. Using optional 15W40 hydraulic oil reduces the number of fluids required on the jobsite, thereby increasing the ease of serviceability.
Convenient maintenance
Ground-level servicing and conveniently located filters, fluid-fill locations, and grease points help ease daily checks and preventive maintenance.
Warranty for peace of mind
John Deere says, "Work your new harvester to the bone, knowing its 10,000-hour structural warranty will have you covered. Your local dealer will give you the best standard warranty and servicing package to meet your personal requirements".
Productivity your way
There are three productivity modes to choose from. The economy, power, and high productivity modes can be switched with the press of a button, or the mode choice can be locked by the machine owner to improve fuel consumption.
Economy mode provides the ideal balance of power, speed, and performance for maximum fuel economy.
Power mode delivers more muscle for standard working conditions.
High productivity mode maximises power and hydraulic response for faster work cycles.
John Deere Finance
Finance is available through your local dealer. John Deere takes a hands-on approach, learning about each customer's unique business requirements to develop customised payment plans.
Navigating steep slopes, manoeuvring narrow rows, harvesting day in and day out, the John Deere 2144G swing machine is built to be a powerhouse for plantations. Endless timber stands are no match for its combination of power and agility.
Goobs Forestry loads up on Bell and Kobelco for timber loading contract
When Simphiwe Magubane submitted his application and motivation at the last minute for an internship that would include tertiary education at a forestry college, little could he have known how his concerted effort would change his life for the better.
Simphiwe hails from a small village called eMakhwabe between Vryheid and Paulpietersburg in Northern KwaZulu-Natal. When he matriculated at the Mantshinga Combined School in Paulpietersburg in 2007, there was no money for him to continue his education. He worked for a while as an intern with a large timber-growing and paper and pulp company. The same company would later sponsor his tertiary education in forestry.
"I was fortunate enough to gain a bursary to study forestry at Saasveld, and having worked in the field for almost a year before getting there, I had a far better understanding of many forestry methods and operations before studying," he says. "When I qualified after three years, I started working back with my sponsoring company, which added to my experience."
Simphiwe began as a forester-in-training, and with hard and diligent work, he was soon promoted to Forester and given a permanent appointment.
"I literally started at the bottom of the tree-growing value chain with seed to seedlings in the tree nursery and learnt a lot about silviculture practices. This is basically planting, maintaining, and protecting the compartments for about nine years, depending on where you are located and the targeted product," he says.
"After four years, I was moved into harvesting as a harvesting forester and was promoted to harvesting manager in 2017. While I so enjoyed all aspects of the learning experience, it was during this stint in harvesting that the idea of being self-employed in some branch of the value chain started taking shape in my mind."
In April 2021, Simphiwe registered his own company, Goobs Forestry (Pty) Ltd, which is derived from his surname, Magubane.
"I am grateful for the mentoring that I received from Hendrik Steenekamp, who is an established and well-respected contractor in the Piet Retief area, when he invited me to work with him on an extraction contract for a timber-growing company," Simphiwe adds. "I learnt a lot about the business side of contracts from Hendrik."
Simphiwe Magubane of Goobs with the rubber-covered tracks of the SK220XD-10 Excavator
Then a contract was advertised to load rail trucks at a railway siding in Paulpietersburg, from where the timber is railed to a large pulp and paper mill in Richards Bay. Simphiwe tendered successfully and with a solid five-year contract in hand, he could approach financial institutions for financing to buy timber handling equipment.
A business consulting agent assisted Simphiwe by using selected business tools and providing training interventions and coaching to improve his business position and ultimately maintain a leading edge in the forestry industry. "They want you to succeed and offer financial assistance and advice all along the way, which is really commendable and greatly appreciated," he says.
"It was about then that I met Daniel van Huyssteen, Bell Equipment's experienced Sales Representative, and himself a qualified forester. His advice has been so valuable. We started with 22 people and three rented Bell Loggers and, in time, I obtained finance to buy the equipment that Daniel had suggested – a new Kobelco SK220XD-10 Excavator fitted with a Bell 800 timber grab and a used Bell 225F Logger with low hours."
As the Kobelco Excavator would be running mainly on concrete, rubber pads from a third-party supplier were fitted to the metal tracks to save both the tracks and the concrete from damage. The machines were delivered in November 2022 and put straight to work on the rail siding on the outskirts of Paulpietersburg.
"The contract had initially called for the use of two excavators, but as the rail service wasn't consistent up to that point, and the volumes we were loading were not at full capacity, I held back on acquiring a second Kobelco SK220XD-10 Excavator until the rail service and volumes were more settled," Simphiwe explains. "Towards the end of September 2023, this was the case, and I ordered another Kobelco SK220XD-10 Excavator from Bell Equipment."
Simphiwe explains how the three lines of rail trucks work. One line contains 19 trucks, another 18, and a third eight trucks. The two Kobelco Excavators load the longer lines of trucks, and the Bell Logger loads the short line of eight trucks.
"As much as we admire the agility of the Bell Logger, the Kobelco SK220XD-10 Excavators with the larger Bell 800 timber grabs perform well in this application and outperform the smaller Logger with much less operator fatigue," comments Simphiwe.
The Kobelcos easily load around 75 tons of timber per hour, while the Bell Logger, which is smaller, reaches 37 tons, which is still impressive considering its size. Also, these will differ significantly depending on where you are on the value chain."
"The use of the Kobelco Excavators has made a difference to this loading operation with a huge saving on fuel consumption, which sees neither we nor our clients complaining," Simphiwe says. "The use of the Kobelco Excavators ensures productivity and helps us meet our client's key performance indicators." Simphiwe is also full of praise for the service he has received from the Bell Equipment branch in Mkhondo. He says the Mechanic, Stefan, and the Parts Specialist, Qiniso, have made his life easier with solid maintenance and the correct parts and service kits.
