Tonnes of tools donated for rebuild

AUSTRALIA’S catastrophic summer of bushfires destroyed thousands of homes, saw 33 people lose their lives and decimated the country’s unique wildlife.
As the smoke cleared, the reality that thousands of Aussies had lost everything became apparent and for Lions Club of Portarlington/Drysdale member Trevor Hirth, it was the catalyst to start a tool drive.
“I’m a former farmer and have an appreciation for tools and know what they are and what is needed. My wife and I had the idea of collecting tools when we realised how many people would’ve lost theirs when their houses burned down.
“We thought originally we might get one of two trailer loads worth of second hand tools but we didn’t expect it would be near as big as what it was. People on the Bellarine were fantastic.”
Mr Hirth said tools are an everyday necessity be it for the house, workshop or the garden “everyone needs tools of some description”.
“We started collecting tools immediately after the fires and delivered the first load to Bruthan in February,” he said.
“Since then we’ve delivered tools to Corryong, Mallacoota, Sarsfield, Buchan (which were collected by the Lions Clubs of Anglesea and Torquay), Cann River, Adelong (NSW) and Tumbarumba (NSW).
“The last load was a second trip to Mallacoota, which included 50 fishing rods, scooters, bikes and jigsaws for the children.”
Mr Hirth said the distribution of the tools was carried out by the Lions Club in each particular area, and where there was no Lions Club, Blaze Aid were “more than happy to distribute”.
“We felt that these people were the ones that knew the situation best and would know those in need. The collection of the tools was handicapped for two months because of the coronavirus.
“As soon as borders were opened and rules relaxed a little, the club were able to get the last three loads away.”
Mr Hirth estimates the clubs delivered more than 20 tonnes of tools to those people affected by the fires.
“The wide range of tools was amazing; everything you could imagine, including over 500 power tools donated. The overall standard and quality of tools was exceptional.
“We know that some people went out and purchased new tools, knowing it was a practical way of helping and exactly where their money was being spent.
“The club would like to pass on their sincere thanks to the people on the Bellarine for their wonderful support towards the project. There were more than 120 collections made from individual homes.”
The club is also thankful for the support given by several Men’s Sheds, as well as a large number of Lions Clubs within south-western Victoria.