Tasmania’s Wooden Boat Board Bank in Geeveston is strengthening the legacy of traditional wooden boat building, aiming to keep the craft alive for future generations. Minister for Business, Industry, and Resources, Eric Abetz, highlighted the importance of sustainable native forest harvesting to support the ongoing viability of wooden boat craftsmanship.
“Tasmania is world-renowned for the quality of our wooden boat building.
“This is underpinned by the unique special species timbers that are sustainably harvested from our native forests,” said Minister Abetz.
The Wooden Boat Board Bank holds over 1200 pieces, serving as a critical resource for artisans.
According to Minister Abetz, “The impressive collection includes prized timbers such as Huon pine, Celery top pine, and King Billy pine.
“These iconic timbers are a standout feature of Tasmanian wooden boat building.”
To preserve the quality of the collection, a recent stocktake was completed, ensuring every piece is accounted for.
“The stocktake involved unpacking all boards and reviewing and documenting the entire collection.
“This included remeasuring, cleaning and photographing each piece, with the process overseen by an experienced wooden boatbuilder,” Minister Abetz said.
Sustainable Timber Tasmania is the custodian of the Wooden Boat Board Bank via its commercial business, Island Specialty Timbers at Geeveston.
