Barling's Woodworks  

Trusted Timber Solutions for Australians, Since 1996.

The Story of Barlings Woodworks

Barlings Woodworks had its humble beginnings on November 1, 1996, when it was founded in a backyard in Croydon. The business operated from that location for
23 years until it relocated to its current facility in Kilsyth in 2019.

Initially, the focus was on crafting bollards and solid timber furniture for local councils. Over time, services expanded to include installation, but in 2010, the company moved away from installation and focused on service and suppling the ever growing industry.

The journey began with just John Barling, but the team grew:
  • In 1997, John's brother Chris joined the team (staying until 2006).
  • Gerry became part of the Barlings team in 2004.
  • John's eldest son, Andrew, joined in 2006.
  • John's youngest son Michael, joined in 2010.
  • John's daughter Danielle took on the role of office manager in 2021,
    marking a new chapter in the family-driven business.
Photo of the Barlings Team
Photo of John Barling

About John Barling


John Barling
, the proprietor of Barlings, brings extensive expertise as an A Grade wood machinist. He holds certificates in both softwood and hardwood grading. His commitment to excellence is highlighted by completing a three-year Timber Technology course, a distinction typically reserved for CSIRO employees.

John's journey in the timber industry began in 1985 when he started working in his father's timber yard in Lilydale. With a rich background in wood machining and a passion for timber craftsmanship, John has been an integral force in shaping the success and reputation of Barlings.

At Barlings, production capabilities are top-notch, allowing everything to be manufactured on-site.

  • Stock: The company maintains robust stocks of White Cypress pine, supplemented by select quantities of Spotted Gumand Ironbark specifically reserved for bollards.
  • Innovation: John personally designed the mortising machine for post and rail fencing and designed and build the multi head drilling machine for bollards
  • Specialty Work: The business also specialises in custom work for other timber yards.
  • Equipment: The arsenal includes a 6-headed moulder, multiple docking saws, CNC Router, Thicknesser, Auto docker and all necessary specialty equipment, complemented by an in-house welding department. This enables the crafting of unique removable and collapsible bollard sleeves and custom fabrication.
  • Delivery: While most post and rail deliveries are handled internally, trusted couriers are used for efficient bollard shipments.
Photo of cypress pine stock and orders
New multi head drilling machine build by John Barling
Stock of Iron Bark

Commitment to Quality & Sustainability

Barlings prioritises quality and sustainability in every aspect of operations.
  • The company exclusively utilises forest-certified White Cypress pine with a chain of custody from reputable mills.
  • They maintain high standards, ensuring that only suppliers meeting their stringent criteria contribute to production.
  • Their commitment extends to providing exceptional quality, rapid turnarounds, and reliable backup services.

More About Choice of Timbers

In dedication to cost-effectiveness, longevity, and ease of maintenance, the company offers post and rail exclusively in Cypress Pine. This choice is due to its:
  • In-ground class 2 life span.
  • Minimal shrinkage rate.
  • Lightweight nature
  • Ease of painting or oiling
While around 90% of Councils and developers specify standard Cypress pine, Barlings also offers bollards in Spotted Gum or Ironbark to cater to specific needs.