Evolution of Plywood Decking in Timber Bridges | Peter Robinson | May 2025

Plywood large-section bridge decking was first developed by Hancock Bros as a replacement for timber “rattle” boards on Australia’s traditional timber bridges. Bridgewood entered the market in the mid 1980’s as a CCA Envelope treated panel, taking many years to gain market acceptance. With advances in preservation treating, in particular veneer treating, and bonding technology, the product has evolved into a flexible, light weight, robust bridge deck panelling system suitable for road and rail applications alike. The presentation introduces PNGFP, a long-standing member of the Engineered Wood Products Association of Australasia and a current manufacturer of bridge panels, before stepping through developments, standards and opportunities using a series of case studies. Peter Robinson is Strategy and Development Manager with PNG Forest Products Limited, responsible for the development and commercialisation of the next generation of Engineered Wood products. Peter started in the timber industry with Hancock Bros Pty Ltd before a variety of roles for Boral over two decades, specialising in R&D and manufacturing excellence in the wood products sector. With an engineering and commercial background, Peter has contributed to National Australian and New Zealand standards development, together with development of state government regulations. Peter holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) from University of Queensland and Graduate Diploma of Management from Deakin University.