Getting quotes for a free standing pergola with timber battens as shown in attached photo. The question is what is the best type of timber to use in the construction? Hardwood , merbau, Blackbutt , pine or are there others I should use? It must be able to withstand all weather ( I live in Geelong, Victoria Australia), plus the battens must look modern and in trend. Therefore looking at wood size as well. And finish mmm.... does the pergola need to be stained or oiled? So many questions where to find the answers 😉