Woodex for Africa
21 March 2012
It’s time for WoodEX for Africa
Gallagher Convention Centre is a beehive of activity in preparation for the first WoodEX for Africa Exhibition & Conference which is being held from this Thursday until Saturday, 22 – 24 March 2012.
This show, the first of its kind in Africa, presents a large exhibition with 65 exhibitors, outdoor exhibitions with demonstrations and activities, a conference with high level speakers, and special features such as timber games and chainsaw competitions.
The exhibition side of the show features exhibitors showcasing innovative timber and woodworking products and services such as woodworking machinery, decking, flooring, structured timber, timber treating and saw milling and logging.
Highlights on the WoodEX for Africa programme include South Africa’s most skilled chainsaw operators and talented wood carvers who will test their skills in chainsaw and carving competitions on Saturday, 24 March, from 09:00 to 17:00. These thrilling competitions consist of speed cutting and carving, as well as a novice class.
Another highlight should be celebrated DIY guru and television personality Riaan Garforth-Venter, Die Nutsman, who will share his passion for wood by showing WoodEX visitors how to build a deck, a work bench and a picnic table on Friday and Saturday (23 and 24 March) between 11:00 and 15:00.
Lynn Chamier, Exhibition Manager, says the challenging economic environment and rising consumer expectations on the environmental front offers excellent opportunities for timber to take its rightful place as a renewable, flexible and cost-effective building source.
“WoodEX for Africa is a showplace for progress across the timber sector for the region. Here exhibitors, visitors and delegates can connect with specialised trade visitors who are knowledgeable, professional and serious business buyers who will use this show as an opportunity to strengthen ties with new and existing customers, make valuable new contacts and catch up on the latest trends and technological developments,” says Chamier.
WoodEX for Africa is supported by The Wood Foundation, the South African Wood Preservers Association (SAWPA), the South African Wood and Laminate Flooring Association (SAWLFA), the Institute of Timber Frame Builders (ITCSA) and the Thatchers Association of South Africa (TASA).
The show is also supported by the European Federation of Woodworking Manufacturers (Eumabois), who represents 800 woodworking manufacturers from 14 European countries, covering 60 per cent of the worldwide production of woodworking machinery.
WoodEx for Africa is open on Thursday, 22 March and Friday, 23 March from 09:00 to 18:00 and on Saturday, 24 March from 09:00 to 17:00. For more information about WoodEX visit www.woodexforafrica.co.za.