By Deborah Court
A few weeks ago I found a place that has to stand as a model for nurturing craftsmanship and goodwill. It’s a club where people regularly get together peaceably and productively to make things from wood.
All I wanted was a wood-turned rod to display my art work. A quick internet search pointed me to the Altona Woodworkers Club. I ended up discovering a thriving community of enthusiastic wood workers.
My first night there I encountered people of all ages, men and women, and a fair representation of western suburbs residents busily working away making all sorts of things. Everyone helped with the room set-up and cleaning up at the end of the night.
There were several men, patient and knowledgeable, providing guidance to those who needed it. It was a friendly and supportive room.
I was a real beginner but was encouraged and instructed to use the tools correctly. I began right away on the first thing I had ever made in wood. I was won over right from the start.
I made a small lidded box. This is a popular project for beginners to see if woodworking is for them.
I took pleasure in sawing, gluing, sanding and oiling this little object. It was satisfying to make something with my hands. I did get to make the wood-turned rod after a while and I learned a lot more along the way.
Altona Woodworkers Club began in March 1992 from a chance meeting at a community event, Operation Recreation, held at Cherry Lake, Altona. Serge Haidutschyk told me it was there he met with Henry Styzinski and Ken Johnston, both now deceased.
After discussion, the three men advertised in local papers for interest and a public meeting was held. From this, the club was formed in August 1992.
The club first met at the Altona Technical College which made available their workshop for the club to use on a week day evening. There were twenty members at the start including Serge who is a qualified tradesman and has a deep knowledge of wood. He remains actively involved providing guidance to members with their projects.
Roy Galea was the first Treasurer. Bob Sutcliffe joined soon after. Bob has served many times as club president and remains an active committee member. When the Technical College closed in December 1992 new rooms were found at Bayside Secondary College. The club still uses these premises today.
For the last 34 years this has been a place where locals can pursue their wood craft with access to machinery, workbenches and, importantly, shared knowledge.
Bob recalls that one young woodworker attended from the age of twelve, became an enthusiastic participant and is now an apprentice carpenter.
Francis Flood is a long-standing member who helps the beginner woodworkers. He recalls that when he joined in 2014 the club mainly comprised older men. The membership has broadened significantly since then. He welcomes the club’s diversity and vibrancy. He says it now truly reflects the local community.
The Altona Woodworkers Club does not need to advertise. It’s popular. If you are interested in finding out more go to their website at altonawoodworkers.weebly.com
