A Commitment to Sustainably Sourced Wood Products
Matilda Veneer is a name synonymous with innovation and quality in the forest and wood products industry. As a leading manufacturer of decorative timber veneers, the company has built a strong reputation for sourcing beautiful woods and transforming them into distinctive products used in architectural projects worldwide. On a recent visit to Matilda Veneer’s headquarters on the Gold Coast, Matt de Jongh, caught up with Anthony Wardrop, General Manager & Meg Berry, Architectural & Technical Representative, to explore the company’s commitment to responsible sourcing and how their Responsible Wood certification helps their business demonstrate their sustainability credentials.
Who is Matilda Veneer?
Matilda Veneer is Australia’s leading producer of native timber veneers and sources high quality veneer from around the world. who have more recently added a selection of specialty plywoods to their product range. The company works with designers, panel manufacturers, joiners and craftspeople across Australia, offering high-quality products that adorn iconic structures like the Sydney Opera House, Melbourne Cricket Ground, Queensland Performing Arts Centre, Phillip Island Visitor Centre and the Australian Embassy in Washington D.C. (see image below).
Bates Smart wins the Overall Australian Timber Design Award for 2024 for the Australian Embassy in Washington, D.C.
“Our ethos is simple, we source exceptionally high-quality wood fibre, producing veneers that are not only functional but also stunning. It’s this quality that sets our products apart. We pride ourselves on giving our customers access to something truly natural, unique and beautiful” says General Manager, Anthony Wardrop.
This approach has earned Matilda Veneer a place in award-winning architectural projects, making them a trusted supplier for prestigious builds across Australia and beyond.
Commitment to Sustainability
Sustainability isn’t a greenwashing buzzword at Matilda Veneer – it’s a guiding principle for how they source timber. The company works within an ethical framework that makes sure timber is only sourced from forests that stay forests, where they stay healthy and keep growing.
“Sustainability is embedded in everything we do, from the way we source our timber to how we manufacture our products, we’re focused on ensuring that future generations will enjoy the same access to natural resources,” Anthony Wardrop emphasised.
Matilda Veneer – showcasing great design and sustainably sourced Australian hardwoods.
Matt de Jongh reflected, “I was really impressed with Matilda Veneer’s approach to sustainability. They are very conscious of the perceived environmental impacts of the timber they use, and they actively seek ways to demonstrate their environmental responsibility and reduce their footprint.”
When it comes to optimal use of a forest and wood product, timber veneer is one of the most efficient ways to use wood, with one cubic metre of log producing approximately 1,000 square metres of veneer. This efficiency, combined with the renewable, recyclable, and biodegradable nature of the material, makes timber veneer a highly sustainable choice.
Responsible Wood Certification
Matilda Veneer’s commitment to sustainability is underpinned by its chain of custody certification under the Responsible Wood Certification Scheme. This certification guarantees that the timber used in their products comes from sustainably managed forests and controlled sources, ensuring environmental, social, and economic benefits for all stakeholders involved.
“Having the Responsible Wood certification means a great deal to us,” explains Anthony. “It’s a validation of our efforts to source timber responsibly and manage our supply chain in a way that minimises harm to the environment.”
Matilda Veneer – showcasing great design and sustainably sourced Australian hardwoods.
Matt added, “Responsible Wood certification isn’t just a label; it’s a promise to uphold high standards. Companies like Matilda Veneer are leading the way in responsible timber production, and their certification ensures that architects, designers, and builders can trust the sustainability of the materials they use.”
Certified Quality and Innovation
At the heart of Matilda Veneer’s operations is their drive to innovate while maintaining the highest levels of quality. They work with Australian hardwood species that are quite difficult to process, but their commitment to excellence in veneer manufacturing means they can offer products that are both beautiful and functional, giving designers the option to select from an extensive range of timber species to compliment other project material selections, many of which tell a story of the client or location of that project.
“Whether it’s for a commercial build or a residential project, architects & interior designers want something natural, unique and beautiful, and we deliver that,” says Anthony. “But it’s not just about aesthetics—our products meet rigorous quality standards. Our customers know they’re getting veneers that not only look great but are built to last.”
The Importance of Certification
For companies like Matilda Veneer, certification is essential, not only from reputational perspective but also from a business one. Certified products are increasingly specified as both consumers and industries alike look for ways to reduce their environmental impact.
“Responsible Wood certification is crucial in today’s marketplace,” explains Anthony. “It gives our customers confidence that the materials they’re using are sustainable and ethically sourced. We’ve seen a growing demand for certified products from all sectors of the construction industry.”
Matt added, “More and more, we’re seeing sustainability as a core consideration in project specifications. Responsible Wood certification allows companies like Matilda Veneer to demonstrate their commitment to ethical practices, helping them stay ahead in a competitive market.”
Strengthening Collaboration
One of the key takeaways from Matt’s visit was the importance of understanding the market’s needs. By working closely with suppliers, distributors, and Responsible Wood, Matilda Veneer ensures they maintain high standards across the board.
“Matilda Veneer is a great example of how the whole forest products sector can work together to achieve shared goals around sustainability. By fostering strong relationships with all stakeholders, they ensure that their products meet the highest standards from forest to final product.”
Matt de Jongh visits Matilda Veneers – with Anthony Wardrop, General Manager & Meg Berry, Architectural & Technical Representative
The Role of Responsible Wood
Responsible Wood plays an important role in ensuring that companies like Matilda Veneer can confidently offer certified products that are traceable to an original well managed forest. The certification provides a framework that promotes sustainable forestry practices, ensuring that wood products are sourced responsibly.
“Without Responsible Wood, it would be much harder for businesses like ours to verify the sustainability claims of our supply chains,” says Anthony. “The certification gives us—and our customers confidence in the products we bring to market.”
Interested in Certification?
For businesses exploring chain of custody certification, Matilda Veneers offers valuable insight. Certification can provide not only a right to play, but a competitive edge in today’s eco-conscious market, ensuring that products meet the increasing demand for sustainability.
“If you’re thinking about getting certified, I’d say go for it,” encourages Anthony. “It’s a rigorous process, but the benefits far outweigh the effort. Not only does it help protect the environment, but it also opens doors to new business opportunities.”
Matt reflected on his visit adding, “It’s inspiring to see a company like Matilda Veneer not only excel in their craft but also embrace their responsibility to the planet. Their commitment to sustainability, innovation, and quality is truly something to be admired.”
