Our Story
Trend Timbers – Our Story
Founded in 1969 in North Sydney by Eric Clark and A.D. (Steve) Stevenson, Trend Timbers grew from decades of timber industry experience. The pair met in Singapore, where Eric was with Malayan Timber and Trading. His career began in England, took him through Singapore, and brought him to Australia in 1956. Drawing on this expertise, Eric and Steve imported Southeast Asian logs for Sydney’s sawmills, fuelling plywood and veneer production.
When Sydney’s sawmills began closing over the next five to six years, Trend Timbers shifted to importing sawn, unseasoned timber from Southeast Asia and Japan. This supplied timber merchants in Sydney and Melbourne, as well as major furniture manufacturers—particularly those working with Burmese and Thai teak.
Richard Clark Joins (1970)
Richard Clark entered the family business in 1970. His timber career began in Hull, Yorkshire in 1957, later taking him to a Shropshire sawmill, the Royal Air Force, and his own fencing business after a hurricane struck Sheffield. Migrating to Australia in 1966, he worked with A. Hudsons and Cypress Pine Australia before joining Trend Timbers, where imports were sold on contract and currency fluctuations managed with foreign exchange agreements.
Expanding Horizons
In the early 1970s, Richard sourced premium timbers like teak, beech, oak, ash, and mahogany from Asia, Europe, and South America. Richard explored New Guinea and the Pacific Islands, adding kauri, lignum vitae, ebony, and African blackwood to the range.
Eric passed away in 1977, after which Richard took sole control, supported by Steve Stevenson—an influential silent partner and respected industry leader—until Steve’s passing in 1993.
A New Generation
In 1987, Richard’s eldest son, Adrian, joined the company, expanding into Australian cabinet timbers such as jarrah, Blackwood, Queensland maple, Tasmanian oak, NSW rosewood, and rare outback species now central to our business. As General Manager, he strengthened our service to woodworkers, growing our collection of specialist tools, project parts, and lathes.
Richard retired in 2012, with Adrian becoming sole owner, bringing energy and vision to the business. In 2014, Adrian’s son, Jesse, joined as warehouse manager, adding fresh ideas and a hands-on commitment to customer service.
A Legacy of Specialised Supply
With four generations of the Clark family contributing 124 years of combined experience, Trend Timbers remains proudly family-run, known for our welcoming atmosphere and unmatched product knowledge.
Today & Tomorrow
Backed by long-standing partnerships with importers, wholesalers, and resellers, we are well placed to market any timber species we believe in.
In 2008 we became RB and AJ Clark Pty Ltd (T/A Trend Timbers), and in 2010 moved to our purpose-built facility at 15 Railway Rd North, Mulgrave, NSW.
Resilient, adaptable, and family-driven since 1969, Trend Timbers continues to grow while staying true to its heritage.
Our Mission
Mission Statement
At Trend Timbers, our mission is to source and supply the finest local and international timbers, tools, and materials—helping craftspeople, manufacturers, and creators bring their projects to life. Guided by decades of experience and a commitment to personal service, we combine traditional knowledge with modern capability to deliver quality you can trust, every time.
Our Vision
Family Heritage – Four generations of the Clark family built Trend Timbers on trust, care, and respect for our craft and customers.
Quality First – We supply only the finest timber, tools, and products—your work deserves the best.
Expert Knowledge – Our guidance comes from hands‑on experience and deep timber expertise.
Customer Care – From professionals to hobbyists, we offer attentive service and genuine support.
Sustainability – We source responsibly and work to minimise waste.
Adaptability – We evolve with the industry while honouring our heritage.
Our Values
To be Australia’s most trusted and respected family-run timber supplier—known not only for the quality of our products, but for the depth of our expertise, our welcoming atmosphere, and our ability to inspire generations of woodworkers. We envision a future where Trend Timbers remains the go-to destination for exceptional timbers, tools, and advice, helping preserve the craft of fine woodworking and boatbuilding for decades to come.
Call
(02) 4577 5277
Address
15 Railway Road N,
Mulgrave NSW 2756
info@trendtimbers.com.au
