What is CCPS?

CCPS is a non-profit, community organisation of like-minded volunteers who love clay.

Located on the Central Coast of New South Wales, Australia, we run courses for anyone interested in getting creative with clay, as well as member-only activities such as raku and pit firings, member exhibitions and sales events. Our workshop space provides the perfect environment for discovering and developing creativity in clay.

The CCPS pop up shop opens during special events such as the Precinct Open Day and our annual Open Day, held in August in conjunction with the Australian Ceramics Open Studios (ACOS) weekend - a national event. You'll find many beautifully handcrafted works by our members, at very reasonable prices.

All are welcome, whether participating in an open day or becoming a member. Check out the Events page for diary dates and the Membership page for further details on how to become a CCPS member.

​Keep up to date with what's happening at CCPS on Facebook, Instagram and our Blog. We look forward to meeting you.

Images - clockwise top left - CCPS Elemental Exhibition 2018
​Marienne Stollery, Lidded Vessel. Photo: Christine Menz
Jeltje Jansen, Decorative Piece. Joy Nagy, Sculptural Bowl. Jules Irving, Hand coiled pots. ​Lesley Weber, Jellyfish​. Margaret Davey, Two Bowls
Photos: Kylie Rose McLean

CCPS Origins

​Much clay has passed through many hands since the Central Coast Potters Society Inc. (known as CCPS) was born on the Australia Day weekend in 1968. Five local potters - Harry Arnall, Kitty Orvad, Joan Matthews, Margaret Keane and Roger Keane advertised a public meeting to form a potters' society. Approximately 30 people responded, some of whom continue to be members today.

The aim of CCPS is to increase the knowledge, experience and skill of members and students in the craft of pottery; and to promote a greater appreciation and understanding of pottery by the general public. To achieve these aims workshop premises to house pottery making equipment were sought.

​In 1969 the group leased the old Scout Hall in Terrigal and enthusiastically repaired it. Various complications followed the occupation of the hall until the land in Russell Drysdale Street (formerly Althorp Street) was made available

Some of the Founding Members. Left to right - Roger Keane, Joan Matthews, Margaret Keane, Harry Arnall

for the arts. Gosford City Councillor Jim Tarbox was instrumental in realising this opportunity. Following extensive fundraising by the potters, enough money was raised to meet the 50:50 building costs with the New South Wales State Government. The workshop at 10a Russell Drysdale Street, East Gosford was completed in 1980, the realisation of an objective raised in 1972.​

In 2018 we celebrated our 50th anniversary, with many diverse clay-related activities. We continue to operate from the same purpose-built building where our facilities are accessible, with ramp access and on and off-street parking. The building houses a substantial workshop space with pottery wheels and large work tables, a kiln kiln room with electric kilns, a kitchen and a well-resourced library. We are a very active group holding regular management committee and member meetings, courses, workshops by renowned potters, firing days and regular exhibitions. If it is to do with pottery, we are interested.