UPDATE: As of today, February 2, 2026, four new students have enrolled at the Wooden Boat Centre (WBC) in Franklin, Australia, marking the beginning of a transformative year dedicated to mastering the art of wooden boatbuilding. This unique facility is recognized as the only school in Australia focused exclusively on the construction and restoration of wooden boats.
The WBC’s year-long program, which demands 38 hours a week of commitment, provides personalized training from skilled master shipwrights. This year’s cohort includes diverse talents from across Australia and even the world, including students from Victoria, New South Wales, and England.
Among the new students is Tilly Finlayson, a local from the Huon Valley who has a rich maritime background. Having lived on a 46-foot fibreglass boat with her family, Tilly is determined to fulfill a promise to her father to build him a wooden boat. After completing a Certificate II in Mechanics, she is diving into this new chapter at WBC.
In a remarkable turn of events, Andrew Pamisano, a biomedical technician from Sydney, has committed to this program as a significant lifestyle change. After giving up his 28-year rental property and putting his job on hold, Andrew aims to fully immerse himself in boatbuilding, fueled by his self-taught woodworking skills and a passion for the craft.
The journey from across the seas is embodied by Jess Suffolk, who has traveled all the way from Suffolk, England. With a background in dinghy sailing and hands-on experience at various boatyards, Jess is eager to expand her skills at WBC after being inspired by a simple online search. Having arrived just a week ago, she is already making waves in the community.
Lastly, Oliver Lawrence from the Yarra Valley has shifted his focus from carpentry to wooden boatbuilding after a disheartening experience at work. Intrigued by the extensive restoration of a sailboat in the US, he is ready to embrace new challenges and learn from seasoned experts at WBC, all while living on a property with playful Maremma dogs.
This influx of passionate individuals is set to invigorate the already vibrant community at WBC, highlighting the growing interest in traditional wooden boatbuilding. The skills learned here will not only preserve a vital craft but also create lasting connections among students and instructors alike.
As these students embark on their journey today, they symbolize a resurgence in craftsmanship and a dedication to preserving maritime heritage. The WBC stands as a beacon for those eager to learn and grow in the world of wooden boats.
Stay tuned for updates on their progress and the exciting projects they will undertake throughout the year.
