Woodturners to showcase wares

GET a one-of-a-kind gift for a family member or friend at the Bendigo Woodturners’ annual Christmas sales.

The group will open their Long Gully workshop to the public from 1 to 4 and 8 to 11 December and president Harald Mai said hundreds of hand crafted items would be on offer.

“It is primarily an invitation to the community to visit the club and see what we do, what the members produce and it gives them an opportunity to purchase items they like,” he said.

Formed in 1987 to create a network for likeminded people who wanted to share their knowledge and skills in woodturning, the club’s present-day members have drawn on a range of disciplines like pyrography and scroll sawing to make their wares.

“We’re at a stage where we have about 80 members. A third of those would be female, our youngest member is 10 and our oldest member is in his mid 80s,” Mr Mai said.

“You can get people who come in with very little knowledge, what they’ve done is woodworking at school.

“Within two to three months, they’re producing some magnificent stuff.”

Mr Mai joined the group in 1996 to build on his skills in the craft, and said newcomers were welcome to sign up at the sale events.

“Coming here, you’ve got so many people you can talk to. There’s literally dozens of people who will give you good advice,” he said.

“That’s the best part about this club. Everyone shares knowledge and is prepared to help.”

To make a purchase, head to 104 Eaglehawk Road, Long Gully from 10am to 4pm on sale days.