Kawerau WoodFest 2009

WoodFest 2009 was a huge hit when it took place in Kawerau on 11 to 13 September 2009, with the National Woodskills Competition one of the event’s highlights.

The competition is widely regarded as one of New Zealand’s top three wood crafting events and comprises a judged exhibition of wood crafts across twelve categories, including furniture and cabinet making, carving, wood turning and models. A recent $12,000 grant from The Lion Foundation assisted with marketing and decor and design for the competition.

Doug Logan, Chairperson, The National Woodskills Trust says the competition is a cornerstone of the festival and included a new category this year.

“This is an outstanding competition and featured incredible wood crafting. We had a number of categories, including some for junior woodworkers, and this year we had a new category to give wood workers a full rein to express themselves and let their imaginations go wild – an Off-The-Wall category.”

Mr Logan adds: “Kawerau WoodFest has a major positive impact on the local community and we are very grateful for The Lion Foundation’s assistance.”

Operating for over 20 years and one of the country’s most widely respected community trusts, The Lion Foundation funds a wide range of arts, cultural, sporting, educational and health focused causes, by distributing back to the local community the funds raised through its gaming venue at the Kawerau Hotel.

“WoodFest 2009 is a unique event that has significant community support and showcases amazing talent,” says The Lion Foundation Chief Executive Phil Holden.

“We are proud to support The National Woodskills Trust and congratulate organisers and competitors for a successful event.”