Botanical name: Eucalyptus grandis

Distribution: Limited to the Central East Coast of New South Wales to North Queensland. A very tall hardwood which can reach 75m (230ft) in height but usually 50m (150ft). It grows tall, straight and narrow with a clean bole up to three quarters of its total height.

Colour: Willunga varies in colour from a light pink to a deep pink with a brownish tinge.

The timber: A moderately coarse but even texture with a straight grain. Can be almost featureless.

Mechanical properties: Moderately durable and not recommended for exterior applications. Young growth can tend to softness. Not suitable for steam bending. Kiln dry density averages 600kgs/m³ (37lb/ft³) but can be as low in young growth as 450kgs/m³ (28lb/ft³).

Working properties: Care must be taken when working Willunga. Tools need to be kept sharp to avoid tear out in boards with interlocked grain, which is rare. Can be slightly "furry" but finishes to a clean surface if care is taken during sanding. Pre drilling is recommend if using nails or screws to avoid splitting. Gluing presents no problems and the timber accepts staining well.

Uses: Furniture, flooring, panelling, cabinet work, turnery, light construction.

Availability: Plentiful.