Something Different
Get hands-on with a wide range of rare and unique learning experiences steeped in traditional crafts and facilitated by experts. Immerse yourself in exciting and rewarding experiences you won't find anywhere else.
Bowmaking Introduction
In this course, run over one evening and a day, you will learn the fundamentals of crafting a bow from a single piece of wood, known as a selfbow. You will learn the theory, science and art of turning inert, milled timber into lively and unique flatbows. You will also learn how to make a simple Flemish Twist string, and make an armguard custom fit to your arm. At the end of the course, you will have the opportunity to shoot your new bow.
The skills learnt on this course will enable students to make their own bows at home. While students may not have the equipment in our workshop, students will learn how to achieve the same results with minimal equipment.
Please note students are welcome to craft a bow of any draw weight up to the limit of 50 lb draw force.
Longbow Making
In this comprehensive weekend long workshop you will fashion a longbow of sustainable Australian hardwood and beautiful bamboo, custom crafted to your own specifications. You will learn the theory, science and art of turning dead timber into dynamic and fearsome longbows. You will also learn how to craft bowstrings, and if you don't already know - be introduced to the rewarding pursuit of shooting a longbow.
The Thing
thing /θɪŋ/ noun
(Old Norse) ▶ An assembly or meeting of the free men and women of a country, province or a clan. At the thing, disputes were solved and political decisions were made. The place for the thing was also the place for rites and for commerce.
(Tharwa Valley Forge) ▶ A four-day Viking festival of making. Forge your own Viking knives, helmet, axe and shield.
Asado Barbeque
On this two-and-a-half day course you’ll make a large brisket carving knife, cooking fire pit, and an asado BBQ. Best of all you’ll learn how to use them.
No BBQ or metalwork experience necessary; this course is suitable for anyone age 16 and up.
Print Making
Over two and a half days you will be guided by artist and educator Antonia Aitken through a place-based making approach. You will be invited to explore and interpret the site through walking, observational and gestural drawing and woodcut printmaking techniques.