What Durra Panel does

Durra Panel is the commercial brand of Ortech Industries Pty Ltd, a privately held Australian manufacturer that produces compressed wheat-straw wall and ceiling panels from reclaimed agricultural fibre. Continuous production of the straw-based panel has run at the company's Bendigo, Victoria plant since 1954 (under the original Stramit Board licence); Ortech was founded in 1985 by Derek Layfield and Neil Williams, with Layfield acquiring the underlying manufacturing rights in 1991 and rebranding the product Durra Panel in 2002. Commercial headquarters are in Carrum Downs, Victoria. Headcount sits in the 11–50 bracket.

The core technology is a dry-extrusion process that binds wheat-straw fibres under heat and pressure using only the straw's own natural lignin — no chemical adhesives. Panels are made to order in nominal 50 mm (S50) and 58 mm (S58) thicknesses at a 1,187 mm standard width with lengths up to 3,600 mm, and are offered in multiple finishes (Natural Kraft Liner, Cement Sheet, Colorbond, Plywood, Hardboard, Textured Paint, and a Soundsorb family covering NRC 0.49–1.05). The panels integrate with the proprietary Durra Steel Section system (I-Beams, Duplex Beams, Cross Tee Units, Wedges, Universal Support Brackets) and the Durra Lifting Frame, which allows ground-based assembly and crane-lift installation reported at up to 800 m per day. The platform-plus-modules architecture extends into Durra Ceiling Systems, Durra Wall Systems, Acoustic Studio Kits, the PLACEit modular homes line and the Backyard Pod. Validated attributes include one-hour fire resistance, no flaming drops or dense smoke, R-Value 0.62, 100% recyclability/biodegradability, and RMIT-confirmed zero degradation after 50+ years of continuous use.

Revenue is generated primarily through direct project sales of made-to-order panels and accessories to architects, builders, developers and government clients for commercial construction (offices, schools, hospitals, convention centres), sports and entertainment venues, data centres, industrial facilities, film and recording studios, and an expanding residential base. A secondary revenue stream is country-by-country exclusive global licensing of the manufacturing technology on a turnkey basis (training, sustained support). Distribution is direct from Bendigo nationally and internationally (Australia-wide freight, plus dispatch to the US, New Zealand, and historical exports to Italy, Germany, Greece, Brazil, Korea, the Philippines and Indonesia). Sales-led go-to-market is anchored by architect/engineer CPD presentations, with technical sales support and online sample/presentation booking behind a contact form.

Name

Durra Panel

Legal name

Ortech Industries Pty Ltd

Website

https://durrapanel.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

1985

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

11–50 employees

Short description

Durra Panel is an Australian manufacturer of compressed wheat-straw wall and ceiling panels that supply commercial, industrial, sports, data-centre, and residential construction projects with integrated acoustic, fire, thermal, and modular building systems, while licensing its manufacturing technology internationally.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Sustainable Building Materials

NAICS

Veneer, Plywood, and Engineered Wood Product Manufacturing (3212), Mineral Wool Manufacturing (327993)

SIC

Prefabricated Wood Bldgs & Components (2452), Millwood, Veneer, Plywood, & Structural Wood Members (2430)

akta.pro primary industry

Structural Insulated Panels (SIP) & Foam-Core Composite Panel Manufacturing (IMANAIAK)

akta.pro secondary industry

Gypsum Board & Drywall Panels (IMADAEAA)

Keywords

• Compressed straw panels
• Acoustic wall systems
• Modular ceiling systems
• Sustainable building materials
• Fire resistant panels

Headquarters

HQ city

Braeside

HQ country

Australia

HQ region

Oceania

Offices2 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Supply Chain, Operations, Personnel, Marketing or Sales, Technology or R&D, Infrastructure

Revenue model

1. Panel and Building System Sales: Durra Panel generates revenue primarily from the sale of compressed straw panels (in various finishes) and complementary Durra Steel Sections (I-Beams, Duplex Beams, Tee Units, Channels, Wedges). Products are made to order in custom dimensions. Revenue is project-based and driven by commercial construction, industrial, and residential applications.
2. Manufacturing Technology Licensing: Durra Panel licenses its manufacturing technology globally on a country-by-country exclusivity basis. Licensing agreements include training, sustained support, and a turnkey production solution. This converts agricultural straw fibre into versatile, durable, fire-resistant construction material.
3. Freight and Delivery Services: The company coordinates national and international freight services, with transport costs calculated per order based on dimensions and quantities. This represents a secondary revenue stream from delivery charges passed to customers.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion3 records

Distribution channels5 records

Marketing channels9 records

Core offering

Durra Panel manufactures compressed straw wall and ceiling panels made from reclaimed Australian wheat straw, using a proprietary dry extrusion process that binds straw fibres with their own natural lignin (no added adhesives). The panels deliver combined acoustic insulation, one-hour fire resistance, thermal insulation, and sustainability credentials in a single building product. These panels are integrated into complete ceiling systems, wall systems, acoustic studio kits, modular residential pods, and are supported by proprietary steel sections and the Durra Lifting Frame installation system. The company also licenses its straw-panel manufacturing technology globally on a country-by-country exclusivity basis.

Product overview

Durra Panel is a manufacturer of compressed straw wall and ceiling panels, operating as a platform-plus-modules architecture. The core product is the Durra Panel itself (compressed reclaimed wheat straw), which is integrated into several system modules: Durra Ceiling System, Durra Wall System, Durra Acoustic Studio Kits, and The Backyard Pod. These systems are supported by proprietary components including Durra Steel Sections (I-Beam, Duplex Beam, Cross Tee Units), Durra Panel Wedges, Universal Support Brackets, and Durra Aluminium Sections. The product portfolio is complemented by various finish options including Natural, Cement Sheet, Textured Paint, Colorbond, Hardboard, Plywood, and the Soundsorb acoustic range (Acoustic Pattern, Soundsorb Pro, Soundsorb Wave, Soundsorb Core, Soundsorb Horizon). Founded in 1985 and in continuous production since the 1950s, Durra Panel serves commercial, industrial, and residential applications including sports stadiums, convention centres, data centres, sound studios, schools, and homes across Australia and internationally.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• Durra Ceiling Systems: Complete panelised modular ceiling system combining Durra Panel with Durra Steel Sections for commercial and industrial applications.
• Durra Wall Systems
• PLACEit
• Durra Lifting Frames
• Durra Acoustic Studio Kits
• The Backyard Pod

Products and services

• Durra Panel Compressed straw wall and ceiling panel made from reclaimed wheat straw. Insulates against sound and heat, stronger and safer than plasterboard, 100% recyclable and 100% biodegradable. Available in S50 (50mm) and S58 (58mm) thicknesses with standard 1187mm width and made-to-order lengths up to 3600mm. Used by architects, engineers, builders, and developers in commercial, industrial, and residential construction.
• Durra Ceiling System Complete panelised modular ceiling system combining Durra Panel with Durra Steel Sections. Provides a trafficable platform for faster, safer installation of roof cladding. Available in single layer and double layer configurations.
• Durra Wall System Modular wall system for partition walls and wall linings. Available in load-bearing and non-load-bearing configurations. Compatible with timber stud walls and proprietary steel systems.
• Durra Lifting Frame Modular lifting equipment that allows pre-assembled ceiling and wall panels to be safely lifted into position from ground level. Reduces scaffolding, improves safety, and achieves installation rates of up to 800 metres per day as demonstrated at Melbourne Airport.
• Durra Acoustic Studio Kits Pre-configured acoustic studio packages for music rehearsal and recording applications. Series 1, Series 2, and Series 3 configurations available for different sizes and acoustic requirements, with AUD and USD pricing guides.
• The Backyard Pod Modular residential building pod using Durra Panel throughout. Designed for backyard applications, home offices, and sustainable housing.
• Durra Panel Manufacturing Technology Licensing Licensing of Durra Panel's proprietary compressed straw panel manufacturing technology on a country-by-country exclusivity basis. Turnkey solution includes complete production facility setup, training, and ongoing support, enabling partners to convert agricultural straw fibre into construction material within their country.

Quantifiable outcome

• RMIT University durability study found zero degradation after 50+ years of continuous use in an occupied building
• +7 more outcomes

Named customers15 records

Segments6 records

Ideal customer profiles7 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature9 records

Partnerships

18 partnerships are on record, tiered core, major and minor.

• NH ArchitecturecoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2022NH Architecture has been a key architectural collaborator on multiple major projects including Melbourne Park Centrepiece (2022), Casey Fields AFLW Pavilion, and the Docklands Studios Sound Stage 6. The firm specifies Durra Panel for its acoustic, thermal, and sustainability properties in large-scale civic and sporting venues. Long-standing relationship across more than a decade of projects.
• Woods BagotcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerWoods Bagot is the architect of record for the Melbourne Convention Centre Expansion project, where over 16,000 square metres of Durra Panel was specified in a three-part 22,400m² acoustic roof/ceiling system. The project required precise acoustic engineering to block helicopter pad noise.
• LendleasemajorImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerLendlease was the builder for the Melbourne Park Centrepiece project where Durra Panel was used as the core ceiling lining material. The project involved close coordination on the custom Durra Lifting Frame system for the pleated roof structure.
• PPC Contractors (Professional Plumbing Contractors)coreImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerProfessional Plumbing Contractors co-developed a custom Lifting Frame system with Ortech Industries for the Melbourne Park Centrepiece project. This collaboration allowed fully assembled ceiling modules to be hoisted into position from ground level, improving installation efficiency and safety.
• Shape ConstructionmajorImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerShape Construction was the builder for the Casey Fields AFLW Pavilion project, working with Durra Panel's acoustic ceiling system for sports noise control. Partnership demonstrates Durra Panel's application in sports infrastructure delivered by tier-1 construction firms.
• Green Spec EventsminorImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerGreen Spec Events is listed as the installer for the Kew High School Gymnasium project (900m² acoustic wall system installed in a single school holiday window) and also handled installation at Melbourne Motor Show 2025 Business Lounge.
• Joost BakkercoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerJoost Bakker is a renowned sustainable designer who collaborated on multiple residential and educational projects using Durra Panel including the Woodleigh School Futures Centre (with Frank Burridge and Main Studio) and the Monbulk Residence (BAL 40 fire-tested modular home). Also designed the Greenhouse by Joost Bakker self-sustaining house.
• Frank BurridgecoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerArchitect Frank Burridge co-designed the Woodleigh School Futures Centre and the Monbulk Residence with Joost Bakker, both of which showcase Durra Panel in sustainable, biophilic, and fire-resilient construction. Frank Burridge is an architect aligned with regenerative design principles.
• Hansen YunckenmajorImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerHansen Yuncken was the builder for the Queensland Netball Centre (Nissan Arena) project, which involved both acoustic ceiling and wall systems for the 5,000-seat show court. Durra Panel has now been installed in 6 out of 8 National Competition's Home Stadiums.
• Ortech Industries Pty LtdcoreOthersOrtech Industries Pty Ltd (ABN 29 006 401 234) is the parent company that owns and operates the Durra Panel brand. Founded in 1985 by Derek Layfield and Neil Williams, Ortech Industries is the manufacturer and global distributor of Durra Panel products. The Bendigo manufacturing plant has been in continuous production since the 1950s.
• RMIT UniversitycoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerRMIT University conducted a comprehensive peer-reviewed durability and fire resistance study on Durra Panel, testing panels dating back to the 1970s against current manufactured panels. Results confirmed zero degradation after 50+ years of continuous use. This scientific validation supports Durra Panel's longevity claims.
• Marshall DaymajorStrategic or Co-development PartnerMarshall Day is the acoustic consultant for the Casey Fields AFLW Pavilion project, providing acoustic engineering oversight that validated Durra Panel's suitability for the sports noise control application. The firm represents a credible third-party endorsement of Durra Panel's acoustic performance.
• ArupmajorStrategic or Co-development PartnerArup is the acoustic consultant for the Iona College sports hall project, specifying Soundsorb Wave ceiling finish to minimise noise reverberation in the multipurpose space. Arup's specification carries significant engineering authority in the Australian construction industry.
• ASK Consulting EngineersminorImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerASK Consulting Engineers served as acoustic consultant for the Queensland Netball Centre (Nissan Arena), specifying the Durra Acoustic Pattern Panel for impact resistance and noise mitigation from adjacent freeways.
• Village RoadshowmajorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorVillage Roadshow commissioned Sound Stage 9 at Movie World on the Gold Coast — the largest Sound Stage in the Southern Hemisphere — using over 6,500m² of Durra Panel. The project's rapid timeline and high acoustic demands validated Durra Panel's suitability for premium film production facilities.
• ADCO ConstructionsmajorImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerADCO Constructions is the builder for the State Basketball Centre ($132 million upgrade) in Wantirna South, Victoria. The project incorporates Durra Panel acoustic ceiling system across 12 courts, 1 gymnasium, and 15,500 sqm.
• Cox ArchitecturecoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerCox Architecture is the architect of record for the State Basketball Centre, specifying Durra Panel acoustic ceiling systems with Natural and Soundsorb Wave finishes for the sports facility.
• Local Australian Farmers (Wheat Straw Suppliers)coreOthersDurra Panel is manufactured from reclaimed wheat straw stubble sourced locally from Australian farmers. The agricultural byproduct would otherwise be burned, contributing to CO₂ emissions. This supply chain relationship supports regional Victorian agriculture and underpins the product's sustainability credentials.

Scale indicators10 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights5 records

Broad incumbents

• James Hardie Industries: Australian-listed global building materials leader in fibre cement panels and siding. James Hardie's Scyon and Villaboard product lines compete directly with Durra Panel in the wall lining and external cladding segments. As an incumbent with extensive Australian distribution and builder relationships, James Hardie represents the dominant alternative specification choice for many architects and developers.
• Boral Limited: Australian-listed major building materials and construction products company with plasterboard, masonry, and concrete divisions. Boral directly competes with Durra Panel in Australian commercial construction wall and ceiling markets, particularly through its USG Boral joint venture and broader distribution network.
• USG Boral: Asia-Pacific joint venture between USG Corporation and Boral Limited, one of the largest manufacturers of plasterboard, ceilings, and lining systems in the region. USG Boral directly competes with Durra Panel in commercial wall and ceiling specification in Australia, New Zealand, and Asia-Pacific markets.
• Knauf Group: German-headquartered global leader in gypsum-based drywall, plasterboard, and insulation systems. Knauf directly competes with Durra Panel's positioning as a "superior to plasterboard" wall and ceiling panel, with comparable fire resistance and acoustic performance claims at scale. Knauf has the global distribution to threaten Durra Panel's specification wins in any market.
• CSR Limited (Bradford Insulation): Australian-listed building products group whose Bradford division manufactures thermal and acoustic insulation products. Bradford's insulation range directly competes with Durra Panel in the acoustic and thermal performance segments of the Australian commercial and residential construction markets.

Emerging players

• Hempitecture: US-based manufacturer of hemp-based insulation and building panels (HempWool and HempCrete). Hempitecture represents an emerging bio-based panel alternative targeting similar sustainability, carbon-negative, and acoustic performance narratives as Durra Panel, though currently operating at smaller scale.
• Ecococon: Lithuanian manufacturer of straw bale wall panel systems for residential and commercial construction across Europe. Ecococon operates as an emerging player in the same bio-based prefabricated wall panel category as Durra Panel, targeting similar low-carbon, Passive House, and sustainable building applications.

Direct peers

• Rockwool International: Danish-headquartered global manufacturer of mineral wool insulation products for thermal, acoustic, and fire protection applications. Rockwool competes with Durra Panel's Soundsorb and acoustic range in high-performance acoustic specification for stadiums, convention centres, and studios. Both products target the same sustainability and fire-resistance narratives in commercial construction.
• Kingspan Group: Irish-headquartered global leader in insulated panels and building envelope solutions. Kingspan's insulated wall and roof panel systems directly compete with Durra Panel's structural insulated panel offering in commercial and industrial construction. Both companies target architects and developers for large-scale commercial projects with high-performance building envelope requirements.
• ModCell: UK-based company specialising in straw bale and straw-fibre structural building panels using similar agricultural waste streams. ModCell is the closest direct peer in the compressed straw panel category, addressing the same sustainability and carbon-sequestration narrative for walls, roofs, and modular construction.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights6 records

Customer concentration

Compliance8 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles1 record

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Durra Panel