Oscar Press

2023

Shipwright and Boat Builder

In honour of Tom Gunning

Oscar Press describes his scholarship experience as confirming his belief that his shipwright and boat building skills could open doors across the world. He reflects, “This experience confirmed what I’d hoped – that my skills could take me across the world. It expanded my craft, my confidence and my connections.”

Awarded the 2024 Global Footprints Shipwright and Boat Builder Scholarship, Oscar travelled to Spain where he developed both professionally and personally in his chosen trade.

His journey began in Barcelona, where he spent time immersing himself in the city’s culture and history while awaiting final confirmation for his work placement in Menorca. Supported by roommates who had lived locally, Oscar explored landmarks such as Tibidabo and the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and formed friendships that continue today.

To prepare for his placement, Oscar enrolled at Camino School alongside fellow Australian scholar Xavier, spending over a month learning Spanish. This time helped him adapt to a new culture and build a strong foundation for his upcoming work.

Once in Menorca, Oscar was welcomed by his new roommates Juan and Gonzalo, who helped him settle quickly. A memorable cultural highlight was participating in a local festival in Ferreries, where young people symbolically become adults through traditional ceremonies, a unique experience that enriched their understanding of the local community.

Oscar began his placement at the Sasga Yachts factory, where he quickly integrated into the daily routine alongside the local workforce. Under the guidance of Juan, who worked at the factory, he learned the full boatbuilding process from start to finish. His timber background made him particularly enthusiastic to learn new techniques, including deck construction, varnishing, and the use of specialised tools.

Significantly, Oscar gained insight into Sasga Yachts’ sustainable timber practices. He observed precision cutting to minimise waste, natural treatments replacing chemicals, and responsible sourcing of materials methods he has already started to apply in his work back home.

Though his time at the factory was shorter than anticipated, Oscar expresses deep gratitude to Jose and Jeannine for enabling the placement, as well as to Global Footprints for providing the opportunity.

Returning to Australia, Oscar brings not only enhanced skills but renewed confidence and a clear sense of direction. He looks forward to continuing to grow in his trade and supporting future scholars on their own journeys.