A TIMBER hutch representing roughly 600 hours of design and construction work has earned Gloucester High School student Blake Walker a nomination for the statewide HSC SHAPE showcase.
Built for his Industrial Technology – Timber major project, the hutch combines traditional woodworking with contemporary lighting and will become a functional statement piece in his home’s entryway.
Walker learned of the nomination after receiving a text message from the NSW Education Standards Authority alerting him to a waiting message.
“I was honestly shocked, but really proud,” he said.
“It felt great knowing the effort I put into the project was recognised.”
The piece uses silky oak, rosewood, and red cedar, with more than 25 mortise-and-tenon joints, several mitred joints, T bridle joints, and numerous dovetails.
He developed detailed drawings in Onshape (computer-aided design software) before sourcing timber and starting construction.
Achieving precise joinery sometimes meant re-machining components and adjusting the design during assembly. “Pouring the resin tabletop was also a challenge because resin is known to leak through anything, and the cure time was a full three days,” Walker added.
His favourite features include the LED-lit resin, pressure-switched bottom lights, and showcase cabinet lights, installed with help from Little Fish Electrical. It demonstrates both craftsmanship and innovation.
Head Teacher TAS Chris Murray said the project reflected Walker’s attention to quality, from the resin countertop and automated lighting to the joinery details.
“All aspects of his work were thought about in a strategic and calculated manner to achieve the highest possible outcome,” Murray said.
He described the project as the culmination of six years of developing timber and design skills at school and through smaller projects at home.
The talented student thanked his teachers for their guidance and for giving up free periods and time outside school so he could use the workshop.
“Without their dedication, the project wouldn’t have been possible,” Walker said.
The nomination recognises excellence in both the major project and supporting folio. His work will now be considered alongside other nominated projects for exhibition.
Walker also topped Chemistry and Industrial Technology – Timber and received the John Tight Memorial Award for Senior Woodworker of the Year.
He plans to study mining or civil engineering after receiving early university offers, while continuing flying and woodworking.
“Building this project showed me how much I enjoy hands-on design and making,” he added.
By Sonja DUNCAN
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