Turnfest is the biggest annual wood turning conference in Australia and 2010 saw it relocated to Sea World on the Gold Coast. Last year’s was the largest in Australia with over 340 people attending. Each year, the organizer, David Drescher invites an interesting and varied group of demonstrators. The 50th anniversary Turn Fest in 2012 is mooted to be the largest ever over 4 days.

As well as exhibiting different types of turning, David organised associated skills presentations including sculpting, patterning and pyrography. These demonstrations expanded the audience interest to finishing and non- utilitarian craft. Liz Scobie, the patternist, uses Jo Sonja acrylics to create her fabulous pieces which are creative and beautiful. Liz and Neil Scobie will again be demonstrating in 2012 along with a return of many of the 2010 presenters. A selection of Liz’ sensational work is illustrated below.

Highlights of the 2010 conference were demonstrations of Eli Avisera’s dramatic and energetic bravado technique, and entertaining performances from Ernie Newman and Jacques Veserey who also shared their knowledge generously.
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In 2011 the conference was held in April, again at Sea World, close to the huge array of attractions and interesting dining and retail venues the Gold Coast offers. Presenters included Sharon Doughtie and Pat Kramer from Hawaii, Soren Berger from New Zealand, Al Stirt from the USA and Jimmie Clewes from the U.K.

The planned 2012 conference is the 10th anniversary and will be the best ever, a continuing celebration from 22 to 25th March. It will host 40 of the highest quality woodturning artists and teachers including 24 internationally renowned wood turners and 16 of Australia's best woodturning and carving professionals. To find out more about next years’ Turn Fest see the Turn Fest site at http://www.turnfest.com.au

Information and images regarding 2010 Turnfest were supplied courtesy of Terry Martin, “Australian Woodworker Magazine”, September/October, 2010 http://www.skillspublish.com.au/Skills%20AWW%20Current.htm