IWCS - International Wood Collectors Society (An Introduction)

IWCS is an international Society started in the US in the 1940s. You may have seen their displays at wood shows around the country over the years. Now we have a strong Australian presence with over 100 members scattered through most states. Many are also members of turning and other wood-working clubs.

Most members are woodworkers of some sort or another but like wood the membership is very diverse. It includes wood technologists, wood anatomists, botanists, foresters, wood scientists and more. So there is much knowledge in its ranks which make meetings and exchanges useful and always fascinating. We hold wood auctions at annual meetings which offer a great way to learn while expanding your collection of rare and interesting woods. For all that personal and wood diversity, it is a friendly, helpful and sociable club.

Its primary aim is to learn and share knowedge about woods of the world, to acquire and exchange wood specimens through members and meetings for individual study and use, to develop wide friendships and through its publications and influence, seek to ensure sustainable management of diverse woods so they will always be available to enjoy and use.

We have no club rooms but meet in various state venues for a few days 2-3 times a year. We also hold international meetings around the world annually. (In 2016 it will be in Charleville, Qld).

One of the best benefits of memberships is the journal, which comes with membershp, every 2 months. Another benefit is the Directory listing members and their interests worldwide. Other publications like the popular Australian Trees and Shrubs - common and scientific names (ed. Morris Lake) and published with help of members and IWCS.

Membership is currently $65 for 1 year, or $180 for 3 years.

For further information (general) see http://woodcollectors.org

For further information Australian residents can inquire through me (eg by PM) or through
Membership Sec. Brian Fraser (SA): [email protected] Ph 08 8258 3383 or through
Current Australian Trustee: Harold & Esther Dennis (Vic): [email protected]

Eugene Dimitriadis
IWCS Honorary Life Member