James Malone has been recognised for his outstanding service and leadership in Australia’s forest products sector, with the long‑serving AFPA board member and Wesbeam co‑founder honoured following his retirement from the AFPA board.
An engineer by training, Malone has been a central figure in the nation’s engineered wood products industry and one of its most influential modernisers.
Wood Central understands that his career includes establishing Australia’s only laminated veneer lumber (LVL) manufacturing facility in Perth and leading WESFI Ltd as CEO and Managing Director. In addition to AFPA, Malone was previously chair of Wespine and held senior roles across the Forest Industries Federation of WA, the Engineered Wood Products Association of Australasia and the Australian Wood Panels Association, helping shape the standards and governance that underpin today’s industry.
Malone has stepped down from the Australian Forest Products Association board after nearly a decade of service, closing a chapter that has influenced national policy and guided the expansion of advanced timber manufacturing for more than 40 years. He is also preparing to retire from his role as Managing Director and CEO of Wesbeam, the company he helped build into a cornerstone of Australia’s engineered wood supply chain.
AFPA Chief Executive Diana Hallam said Malone’s contribution had been exceptional, describing him as “a true pioneer, entrepreneur and highly respected leader of our industry, who has led the way with distinction and foresight over many years.” She said his work across AFPA’s board and numerous committees had strengthened the sector’s foundations and supported its long‑term growth.
Malone was named Forest Industries of WA Leader of the Year in 2006 and was listed in Business News WA’s Power 500 in 2023 for industrial and logistics leadership. He also continues to serve as a Trustee of the Gottstein Trust, supporting research, education and professional development across the forestry sector.
