Gold Coast thrower Peter ‘Cotti’ Cottrell ready to axe up the competition on world stage

A random outing with mates is now taking Peter “Cotti” Cottrell halfway across the world — from Queensland to the World Axe Throwing Championships in Toronto, Canada.

The Gold Coast local first picked up an axe in 2017 at Lumber Punks, expecting a bit of fun and maybe a few splinters.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: How axe throwing sparked a global community inclusiveness

Instead, he found a sport — and a community — that stuck.

Now, known in the lanes as Scurvy Dog, he’s officially qualified to represent Australia at the 2025 International Axe Throwing Championship (IATC) this June, competing for the prestigious Wilson Cup.

“After years of dedication, countless hours of practice, and travelling across Australia to compete, this is a dream come true,“ Cotti said.

The real prize: Community, connection, and clutch moments

For Cotti, the axe is just the tool — but the hook was immediate.

While the satisfying “thunk” of steel hitting timber is certainly a draw, he believes there’s something deeper to the sport.

The reason he’s still throwing axes nearly eight years after his first session isn’t about trophies, it’s about the people.

“Everyone can throw axes … It can be a social night, a competitive outlet, a way to de-stress after work, or just something new,” he said.

“It really is for everyone.”

And he means everyone.

The axe-throwing community is “the most diverse and welcoming” he’s ever been part of.

“It really is a sense of community, belonging and acceptance,” Cotti said.

From tradies to teachers, uni students to retirees, the appeal seems to be universal.

“One throw and you’re either hooked, or at least feeling a little better than you did five minutes ago,” Cotti said.

“It’s got a nice entry level, anyone can stick an axe, but to get consistent?

“That’s where the challenge is.

“That’s where it gets interesting.”

Cotti and Saber make a cutting-edge duo

One person who has been pivotal in Cotti’s journey is his partner, Saber, who has also become a standout in the Australian axe-throwing scene.

“Saber is a gun thrower, winning multiple events including the first-ever women’s tournament in Australia,” said Cotti, proudly talking about his partner.

The couple now competes in doubles, travels to as many competitions as they can, and will be teaming up again for the International Championship in Toronto.

Saber has also helped grow the sport locally by running the cheekily named Big S.H.I.T. (Saber Hosts Impromptu Tournament), which has already seen three successful events.

Cotti attributes the strength of Australia’s axe-throwing scene — particularly in Queensland — to its grassroots energy, where people come together to grow the sport from the ground up.

“A place so welcoming and warm is bound to grow,” he said.

All of it, he adds, comes with the undeniable thrill of hitting a bullseye.

“Your first bullseye or clutch, your first perfect round and then perfect match, your first league win … as well as sharing in others’ achievements too.”

Cotti and Saber’s relationship is grounded not just in their shared love for the sport, but in the way they challenge each other through friendly competition.

“We push each other to improve our game whilst supporting each other,” Cotti explained.

“It’s always fun when we have matches against each other.”

Cotti to make his international mark

While the qualification for the World Axe Throwing Championships in Canada is locked in, the travel budget … isn’t.

He’s launched a fundraiser to help cover the costs of flights, accommodation, and event fees, and is calling on fans, friends, and fellow throwers to pitch in if they can.

“This isn’t just about competing; it’s about representing our community on a global stage … and showing what Aussie axe throwers are all about,” Cotti said.

“Even just sharing the fundraiser means a lot.

“Every little bit helps get me one step closer.”

The IATC runs from June 11–16 in Canada, and Cotti will be throwing alongside 255 of the world’s best.

“I’m excited to be making my first trip to the birthplace of urban axe throwing.”

But no matter how the chips fall, he’s already nailed the spirit of the sport.

“At any level, the most important thing is that you’re having fun with it.”