Andrew Gee (Calare, Independent) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The year was 1990: the Holden racing team won its first Bathurst 1000; 'Nothing Compares 2 U', by Sinead O'Connor, was No. 1 on the Australian music charts; and the Central Tablelands Woodcraft club, affectionately known as the Woodies, was born. Over the past 35 years the Woodies have become an invaluable part of the Bathurst community. Each of the 85 dedicated members share a passion for woodworking and enjoy forging great friendships while making an important contribution to their community. On any given Wednesday, Friday or Saturday you'll find their workshop, on Dorman Place in Kelso, humming with the sound of saws and lathes, as dozens of woodworkers tinker on personal or community projects. The Woodies are currently repairing and restoring some garden chairs for St Catherine's residential aged care in Bathurst.

Recently, I caught up with members of the Woodies at the Bathurst Heritage Trades Trail, including with new member Judith Malo. The group is a fine example of how community spirit, a solid collection of power tools, a bit of timber and a cup of tea or two can transform communities for the better. The Woodies also run regular how-to workshops and encourage people of all abilities to discover the joys of woodworking.

I give a big thankyou to the Woodies committee, including President Ian Jackson, Vice-President Doug Kinlyside, Treasurer Chris Curry, Secretary David Tonkin and committee members Peter Brennan, Jim Hallahan, Ron Cambey and Harry Howard, for all of the hard work that they put in to ensuring that the Woodies continue to go from strength to strength. Well done to the Woodies, and thank you for all that you do for Bathurst and our region.