Have a look at below this might be of some help.

https://www.bunnings.com.au/diy-advice/home-improvement/walls/how-to-create-a-dowel-timber-feature-wall

Thanks Robin for jumping in there! The panelling on this job is actually available from Bunnings :) It isn't full 1/2 dowel in this case, but rather Porta Tasmanian Oak Riverine panelling. You can buy tongue and groove sections, https://www.bunnings.com.au/porta-78-x-21mm-1-8m-lining-board-tasmanian-oak-riverine_p0211289 or individual pieces, which are particularly useful for curves.