The Wildflowers commission is rooted in the creative fabric of Castlemaine and the Mount Alexander Shire—a region long recognized for its rich heritage, thriving arts community, and strong culture of local manufacturing, timber work, and custom design.
The artwork was created by Laura Woodward, an award-winning Castlemaine-based sculptor, educator, and co-owner of local design and fabrication practice Like Butter. Known for integrating complex geometry, digital manufacturing (including CNC machining), and material performance, Woodward collaborated with Dja Dja Wurrung cultural enterprise DUMAWUL to develop sculptures that reflect connection, community, and local flora.
The installation honors the seven pioneering women who established the historic Castlemaine Art Museum in 1913. Situated near the entrance of the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens, the seven human-scale timber figures offer an inviting, tactile experience for visitors of all ages.
“The aesthetically ‘softer’ material qualities of timber sit in contrast to many historical artworks… Timber’s material warmth is appropriate for tactile engagement—many will wish to reach out and touch them.”
— Laura Woodward, Artis
Why Accoya® Grey Was Selected
For high-exposure outdoor installations, artists and fabricators require a material that resists weathering, rotting, and distortion while maintaining fine structural and tactile detail. Accoya® was specified for several key reasons:
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Consistent Aesthetic from Day One: Constructed using Accoya® Grey—which is dyed through the grain—the sculptures retain a uniform, beautifully weathered grey tone without requiring organic greying over time.
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Precision for Fabrication: Accoya’s class-leading dimensional stability allowed for intricate cutting and shaping without the risk of post-installation warping, twisting, or cupping.
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Non-Toxic & Tactile Safety: Certified Cradle to Cradle (C2C) Platinum for Material Health, Accoya® is 100% non-toxic and splinter-resistant, making it safe for children to touch and play around.
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50-Year Outdoor Durability: Backed by a 50-year above-ground warranty, Accoya® ensures civic investments remain structurally sound for decades with minimal maintenance.
The Wildflowers project demonstrates what is possible when advanced modified timber meets regional design and manufacturing talent. Britton Timbers is committed to partnering with local timber yards, joiners, CNC fabricators, and commercial manufacturers across regional hubs and nationwide.
Whether you are a local workshop looking to expand into high-durability timber options or a regional supplier seeking high-performance products for civic and architectural specifications, Accoya® unlocks new opportunities for outdoor applications where native timbers traditionally face maintenance challenges.
