Carve-In at Bacchus Marsh marks a 28 year-long tradition
The annual Carve-In kicks off with a show-and-tell of participants’ past year creations.
Words and photos: John Paine
In May 2025, for the 28th consecutive year, carvers from all over the country converged in scenic central Victoria, for the annual Bacchus Marsh Carve-In. For nearly three decades, this live-in weekend event has fostered a vibrant community, a place where the love of wood and the art of carving truly come alive.
One room is set aside for hand carvers....
...while powercarvers are happily stationed on the verandah.
Upon arrival, the YMCA Lady Northcote camp swiftly transformed into a bustling hub of creativity. A dedicated hand carvers’ room and the power carving verandah were quickly populated by participants who, armed with their own tools, set up their workspaces.
This a place where old friends, some who have shared this tradition for years, can happily reunite and catch up. It's also a welcoming space for ‘newbies’ who are quickly embraced into a supportive carving community.
The Carve-In offers specific projects with experienced group leaders who provide guidance, however many carvers bring their own projects to work on. The variety of past creations is a testament to the diverse talents and interests present.
Evenings at the Carve-In are just as rich in camaraderie as the carving hours. After dinner on Friday, all carvers gather for the official welcome and an inspiring show-and-tell. This much-anticipated session showcases projects completed in the previous year, with often over 100 diverse items on display.
Saturday afternoon information session conducted by Dinny from Timbecon.
Saturday is a full day dedicated to the art of carving, interspersed with lively chats, meal and snack breaks. In the evening a guest speaker shares their insights, techniques, and stories from their own carving journey, adding another layer of learning and inspiration.
Sunday morning at the Bacchus Marsh Carve-In begins in a truly unique and memorable way. The evocative sound of bagpipes gently calls everyone in for breakfast, setting a distinctive tone. A last morning of dedicated carving allows participants to put finishing touches on their projects, before the collective effort of clean-up begins. The weekend culminates in a final show-and-tell after lunch, where participants proudly display the progress of their weekend’s work.
A group photo of the 2025 Carve-In participants
The Bacchus Marsh Carve-In is open to all carvers with experience, fostering an environment where both individual growth and shared learning thrive. Accommodation and meals are provided with options for individual or shared rooms.
After 28 years, this annual gathering is more than just a workshop; it’s a tradition and a testament to the growing appeal of woodcarving.
Carve-In events are organised by Woodcraft Manningham and Woodcarvers. Next year’s event takes place 1–3 May, 2026. Learn more at bacchusmarshcarve-in.org