Tasmania is entering a new era where authenticity, crafting and making things is increasingly central to its positioning; a foil to the emerging city concentrated, service oriented and “quick” societies and economies. Our visitor economy is increasingly dominated by people from such cities; grounding themselves in Tasmania and seeking out products that reflect this authenticity and traditions, often with a contemporary spin. Tasmania’s special timber products are part of this mix and has indeed been carrying this mantle for forty years.

This trend provides the opportunity for young people to pursue a traditional path within a contemporary setting. The investment in learning a craft, gaining knowledge through our university and TAFE system and developing new ways of engaging markets can connect young people not only to the culture and skills of the past, but to a meaningful future.