Wood you like a chance to win $10,000?
WOOD artisans from across Australia are invited to showcase their skills in the prestigious Sunshine Coast Wootha Prize, a woodworking competition proudly sponsored by the Sunshine Coast Council. What sets this competition apart is its commitment to sustainability, requiring participants to work exclusively with sustainably harvested native timbers, weed timbers, or repurposed materials.
The selected finalists will take centre stage at the Maleny Wood Expo, scheduled for May 4 to 6, 2024, at the Maleny Showgrounds.
Organised by the environmental non-profit Barung Landcare, the Maleny Wood Expo celebrates its 25th year and is renowned as one of Australia’s premier wood shows. With a history of attracting up to 10,000 attendees, the expo serves as a platform to foster an appreciation for woodworking and sustainable timber use.
Woodworkers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals, are encouraged to submit their entries, contributing to a diverse showcase of talent. The competition emphasizes sustainability, promoting works that combine environmental stewardship with artistic brilliance.
The Sunshine Coast Wootha Prize offers a substantial prize pool, with an overall cash prize of $10,000 and additional awards totaling $9,000. Participants can compete in three distinct categories: Furniture, Sculpture, and Tiny Treasures, catering to a broad range of woodworking skills and expertise.
In a new addition to the competition, the ‘Evolve’ category, sponsored by Maleny Art Direct, acknowledges both emerging craftspeople and seasoned individuals who have dedicated their lives to woodworking. This category provides a level playing field, ensuring that newcomers and long-time enthusiasts can showcase their skills without the pressure of competing against recognized professionals.
The competition is open-themed this year, allowing participants limitless opportunities to express themselves through their woodworking pieces. Entries are accepted until March 22, 2024.