Our Story

The annual Australian Wood Design Exhibition has been held in Orbost for many years.

Since the beginning many entrants had expressed an interest in establishing The National Collection of Wood Design

… and so Orbost Exhibition Centre was born!

The collection now comprises over 30 pieces of woodwork which have been chosen from over 1,000 entries over the years, from all over Australia.

The pieces in the collection demonstrate the diversity of applications for our native hardwood timbers and the versatility of our designers, while serving as a long-term monument to the creativity of this emerging industry.  (See “Exhibt Gallery” for photgraphs.)

The Exhibition Centre opened in December 1994 and was built by a dedicated team of local woodworkers, artisans and volunteers.   The award winning design is clad with Silver-top Ash, supported by 54 iron-bark poles.

Funding for the building of the Centre came from grants provided by the Myer Foundation, the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) and other state and federal grants.

 Today the Centre is fully-funded by donations, admissions and commissions on the sales we make.  Your support is greatly appreciated in keeping us an iconic and successful gallery.

 The Centre aims to provide a focal point within the community hosting concerts, films, cultural displays and educational workshops.