Woodchop

Experience the power, precision and tradition of one of the Gold Coast Show’s most exciting attractions!  Australia’s best woodchoppers will go head-to-head across two action-packed days, showcasing incredible strength, speed and skill in a range of traditional timber sports. From lightning-fast Underhand and Standing Block events to thrilling sawing competitions and Stock Saw races, there’s plenty of action for the whole family to enjoy.

Friday 28 August commencing 9.30am

Event 1: 275 Underhand Handicap
Event 2: 300 Underhand Handicap
Event 3: 275 Standing Block Handicap
Event 4: 300 Underhand Championship
Event 5: 250 Standing Block Veterans Handicap
Event 6: 275 Novice Underhand
Event 7: Underhand Under 18s Handicap
Event 8: 375 Open Single Sawing Handicap
Event 9: 400 Double Hand Sawing (DHS) Handicap
Event 10: Stock Saw
Event 11: Standing Block Hard Hitting (8 Back Markers)

Saturday 29 August commencing 9.30am

Event 12 – 275 Standing Block Handicap
Event 13 – 300 Underhand Handicap
Event 14 – 275 Underhand Handicap
Event 15 – 300 Standing Block Championship
Event 16 – 275 Underhand Veterans Handicap
Event 17 – 275 Novice Underhand
Event 18 – Underhand Under 18s Handicap
Event 19 – Open Double Hand Sawing (DHS) Handicap
Event 20 – Jill Single Sawing Handicap
Event 21 – Jack and Jill Sawing Handicap
Event 22 – Stock Saw
Event 23 – Underhand Hard Hitting (8 Back Markers)

Understanding the Events

The Underhand Chop is one of the most iconic woodchopping disciplines. Competitors stand on a horizontally anchored log, typically measuring 30–32 centimetres in diameter, and use an axe to chop completely through it.  The event recreates the traditional logging technique used to cut up a felled tree and demands exceptional balance, accuracy, strength and endurance. Every swing must be perfectly placed as competitors work quickly from both sides of the log to finish in the fastest possible time.

The Standing Block Chop simulates the felling of a standing tree. A timber block is secured vertically in a metal stand, and competitors must chop through it from both sides as quickly as possible. Success requires explosive power, pinpoint accuracy and flawless axe technique. Elite competitors can complete this event in under 13 seconds, making it one of the most spectacular events to watch. The Standing Block is considered one of the more advanced disciplines, with most athletes learning it after mastering the fundamentals of the sport.