Could the next raffle winner be you?

In celebration of our latest fundraising raffle, we look back on last years Mates Helping Mates fundraiser and all the good that came out of it.
We raised $2800 for Givit, in response to the devastating floods of 2022 in SE Qld and Northern NSW… and gifted a spot on our 4 Day wooden surfboard making course.

In times of hardship, the strength of a community can really shine through. We received so many generous donations and we felt very honoured to donate a good chunk of money to Givit who were the official charity in the floor recovery efforts. Mates Helping Mates was more than a raffle, but a gesture of compassion and community. We were thrilled to randomly draw a generous member of the community and give back in a way that would provide a memorable experience for someone.

Scott was our lucky winner and we had him back in the workshop at the end of last year (a known face to us….he completed his first wooden surfboard a few years prior!) How awesome to have not only one but two stunning Bywater wooden surfboards?! We know it’s not uncommon for our surfboard making students to be dreaming of their next wooden stick to add to their quiver, so it was great to make that dream become a reality for a past student. 

Here's what Scott had to say -

“I’ve now made two timber boards now under the guidance of Stuart in his 4 day workshops and found the experience of making a timber board both exhilarating and therapeutic.  Stuart’s skill and knowledge in the craft and encouragement enabled me the experiment with my designs and I now have two boards that I am super stoked with.  Both have drawn admiration from family and friends and turn heads down the beach and out in the water.  Riding a timber board is a different sensation to that of a modern style board and incredibly rewarding, when you have made it yourself.  I thoroughly recommend anyone to take the journey with Stuart and shape your own functional piece of art” - Scott

The ripples of Mates Helping Mates had a lasting effect, which is why we wanted to continue the essence of giving back this year. Our sights were set on raising money for a charity focusing on mental health - so it’s with pleasure to be donating to Waves of Wellness Foundation - an Australian charity utilising surf therapy, empowering those who partake in their programs. We are huge advocates for the power of the ocean, catching a wave and fostering a community of like minded individuals.

This year we extend the prize across either of our renowned woodworking courses; understanding that one may be less interested in surfboard making but would prefer to experience our 2 Day course, a fabulous introduction to furniture making, to make their own hall table or coffee table. Our joy is sharing our passion and expertise of woodcraft in any capacity we can, with full belief that building with your hands and learning new skills is fundamental to mental wellbeing. 

With a few weeks left of our current raffle, we hope to raise an impactful amount to assist in the endeavours of WOW Foundation. On 7th September we will randomly draw from this year’s generous entrants, could it be you? 

For raffle tickets purchase HERE!