In South Africa you will probably have more choices. The EC wood market is
a good bit different that here in the US.

You need a wood that is clear strait grained, light, reasonably rot
resistant, with good bending strength and crush resistance. The problem
with most tropical hardwoods is the weight. You really want to stay under
500kg/M3.

--
Glenn Ashmore

I'm building a 45' cutter in strip/composite. Watch my progress (or lack
there of) at: http://www.rutuonline.com
Shameless Commercial Division: http://www.spade-anchor-us.com

"Max Hazelhurst" wrote in message
...
Hi guys - have been researching a bit into some alternatives - been
chatting to some wood merchants as well about potential species to
consider - will post here for all once the short-list candidates are
inline (sounds like a beauty contest)