The Illawarra Woodwork School

“A tree is our most intimate contact with nature.” — George Nakashima

About The Illawarra Woodwork School

Nestled inside the former grain silos of Woonona’s old malting factory, The llawarra Woodwork School sits between escarpment and ocean — proudly sharing the craft of fine woodworking with the community.

Today, the school’s studio blends industrial machinery with a remarkable collection of hand tools — from vintage Stanley planes and Berg chisels to modern Veritas gear. Students even work with Australian-made tools by Chris Vesper, Colen Clenton and Ian Wilkie. When not teaching, tutors Stuart Montague & Ed Oliver are crafting and restoring furniture onsite.

Classes & Workshops - Term 1, 2026

New to traditional woodwork? Start here.

Join The Illawarra Woodwork School's 10-week Introduction to Woodwork Workshop, where you’ll develop skills using hand tools only - no power tools allowed! Workshops are for all abilities, from Beginner to Advanced.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, this course is perfect for anyone interested in craftsmanship, creativity, and making something with their own two hands.

This foundation course introduces you to the workshop, core hand tools, timber selection and finishing techniques. First projects include items such as sushi trays, mirror frames, mallets, chopping boards and timber boxes. Small class sizes (max 6) ensure personal guidance. Lessons run for 3 hours over a 10-week term, aligned to NSW school terms.

Classes are project-based: after learning core hand skills in marking, cutting and planning, you’ll move to your chosen project. As skills grow, so do the possibilities — tables, cabinets, chairs and stools.

Click here for upcoming 2026 classes and workshops including bowl carving and more.

The school also offers weekend and 5-day specialty workshops, including chair-making, carving with Carol Russell, netsuke carving with Hape Kiddle, wood carving with Rex Kalehoff and onsite greenwood furniture.

The Illawarra Woodwork School proudly supports NDIS participants of all ages — contact Stuart Montague to discuss options.

WOODFEST — The Illawarra Festival of Wood

Founded by the school in 2017, the Illawarra Festival of Wood later evolved into WOODFEST after a lockdown hiatus. Hosted at Bulli Showground, it’s a warm, hands-on celebration of all things wood — workshops, timber sellers, furniture makers and curated market stalls.

• 2026 Dates: TBC
• For enquiries, contact Suzanne Montague at [email protected]

For additional information about the workshops, please contact Stuart Montague or Suzanne Montague on [email protected] or 0438510145.