MICK CHALKLEY

     I reside in the hamlet of Abermain, a retired bricklayer, woodcrafter and mentor for five children learning woodwork from me. 

       Woodworking has kept my hands and mind nimble. It was a challenge teaching myself, then I discovered YOUTUBE - absolutely the best teacher ever.

        I started with simple projects, and as confidence built within me so did the projects. The more challenging the projects became, the more of my spare time is spent in my workshop being creative.

         My largest piece sits in Bellbird Uniting Church. A Baptism Font with over 1500 pieces of individual wood.  

        My other great passion is teaching children to do woodwork, and adults too.   Nothing better than seeing the sheer amount of pride and confidence in a child's face as they complete a project.  Knowing they used a machine larger then themselves, and crafted an object by themself (usually given to mum to be kept as a keepsake). The parents are so thankful and amazed at what the kids can make.

It’s a great joy.