Botanical name: Araucaria cunninghamii

Distribution: A large softwood which can grow to 30-45m (100-150ft) with some exceptional and now protected specimens reaching 60m (200ft). Diameters are not large with 1m (3ft) being the average. Yamba is found in rainforests stretching from Northern New South Wales to Northern Queensland. It also occurs in mountain regions of Papua New Guinea.

Colour: Pale yellow-brown with a pinkish tinge. The heartwood and sapwood are usually indistinguishable.

The timber: Fine and close grained with a straight grain. Growth rings are relatively inconspicuous. Fine knots may be present in some material and these do not machine as well as Pine species knots and care must be taken.

Mechanical properties: Not suitable for exterior use or steam bending. Medium crushing strength and resistance to shock loads. Kiln dry density of 480kgs/m³ (30lb/ft³).

Working properties: Yamba works fairly easily with hand or machine tools but cutters need to be kept sharp if knots are present. Pre drilling for nails and screws is not necessary. The timber glues well and takes a fine finish.

Uses: Cabinet work, furniture, turnery, linings, panelling and box making. Yamba is available in veneer.

Availability: Plentiful.