ONE of Australia’s most respected and sustainable woodworking competitions, the Sunshine Coast Wootha Prize, is calling on woodworkers and artisans from across the nation to submit their finest creations for the 2026 event, now forming part of the Montville Timber Trail.
Hosted by Barung Landcare and supported by key sponsors, the Wootha Prize celebrates excellence in timber artistry, sustainability and craftsmanship.
Finalist works will be showcased in a major feature exhibition as part of the Montville Timber Trail, held at the Montvale Glasshouse in the Sunshine Coast hinterland village of Montville from May 1–4 this year.
Now in its 15th year, the Wootha Prize has built a strong national reputation for championing environmentally responsible woodworking.
All entries must align with the competition’s ethos, “Sustainable by Nature, Beautiful by Design,” highlighting works crafted from sustainably harvested native timbers, weed species, or repurposed, salvaged and recycled wood.
The 2026 competition is open themed, allowing entrants the creative freedom to express their own artistic vision across three core categories: Furniture, Sculpture and Tiny Treasures.
From emerging makers to established professionals, woodworkers of all skill levels are encouraged to enter.
Finalists will be eligible for the coveted $10,000 overall first prize, with additional prize money awarded across individual categories, including Furniture, Sculpture, Tiny Treasures and a People’s Choice Award.
Entries close on Friday, March 20, 2026, with the exhibition and awards forming a highlight of the Montville Timber Trail celebrations in May.
Organisers say the event offers a unique opportunity for the community to experience the creative possibilities that emerge when environmental stewardship meets outstanding craftsmanship.
The Sunshine Coast Wootha Prize is an initiative of Barung Landcare, which has hosted the competition since 2004.
For competition guidelines and entry details, visit www.barunglandcare.org.au/woothaprize, and follow the Sunshine Coast Wootha Prize and Montville Timber Trail on social media for updates.