The Orbost Arts Centre’s (OAC) Biennial Australian Wood Design Exhibition has officially concluded for 2026, with organisers celebrating a highly successful event that showcased the pinnacle of regional and interstate craftsmanship.
Following weeks of strong public attendance, the exhibition was carefully packed down after a celebratory closing gathering held last Sunday.
The highlight of the finale was the announcement of the People’s Choice Award, an honour often considered the most prestigious of the event, as it is determined entirely by the visiting public.
This year’s $500 prize was awarded to Lawrence Humphries.
A first-time exhibitor who travelled from Wodonga, Mr Humphries captivated the imagination of visitors with a trio of exceptional model vehicles.
His remarkably detailed model bulldozer took first place in the public vote, while his model tanker secured the second-place spot.
His third entry, a passenger train, was also a major talking point throughout the show.
While Mr Humphries took the public’s top prize, two local woodworkers achieved a significant career milestone with the acquisition of their work into the National Collection.
Tim Royce’s masterfully crafted Whisky Table and Shane Wolfe’s elegantly turned Camphor Laurel bowl were both selected for the permanent collection, serving as a testament to the high calibre of talent within the East Gippsland region.
The exhibition also looked toward the future of the craft, with a dedicated section for “The Saplings” – the next generation of woodworkers.
Their projects received encouraging feedback, with organisers noting that inspiring young makers is critical for the industry’s longevity.
The event’s success was underpinned by a massive community effort.
The Orbost Arts Centre, which is operated almost entirely by volunteers, received support from more than 25 local businesses and organisations.
A special volunteer raffle featuring handmade gifts was also drawn during the closing event, with Orbost local Mary Long named the lucky winner.
As the doors close on the 2026 showcase, the OAC is already looking ahead.
With a number of works finding new homes and strong community engagement, the centre confirmed it will return for the next Biennial Australian Wood Design Exhibition in 2028.
