See examples of recycled timber, boxes and cotton reels the Curley family used to make the things they needed more than 100 years ago. Then join local craftsman Myles Gostelow to design and construct using timber, hammers and nails.

Teacher and maker Myles Gostelow is based in Tharwa. He graduated from the Australian National University with a Bachelor of Fine Art, majoring in furniture design. His work is influenced by the Australian bush and he utilises a broad range of hand-skills. Myles’ sculpture is represented in a number of Canberra’s playgrounds, public spaces and National Parks.

Congratulations to all who came along to our workshop! Kids and their carers used clamps, hammers and nails, and Myles expertly used a cordless drill, tin snips, and a beautiful wood plane to help finish each box. A perch was added to the front of each box - it was heavy-duty, satisfying work!

 We also went on a tour of the cottage, and had opportunities to study feathers under a microscope, read books relating to nature and pioneer crafts, and to get a close-up look at a hand-made letterbox constructed using reused/recycled materials that is part of the Mugga-Mugga Cottage collection.

 We are delighted that a number of families are planning to share their bird boxes with community gardens and nature reserves!