Berwick and District Woodworkers Club craftsman Bill Bradshaw with the latest rocking horse he made. These beautifully crafted rocking horses have become an iconic symbol of the club with one being raffled each year as a fundraiser.By Jim Mynard
EDRINGTON Ward councillor Mick Morland has promised the Berwick and District Woodworkers Club a $1000 bonus from ward funds and a few ‘teddy bears’ from the Rotary Club of Berwick.
Cr Morland officially presented more than 400 toys, made in the woodworkers’ toy factory at the Old Cheese Factory, to charitable groups for distribution to needy children at Christmas.
He said Christmas was a special time for families and children, but some were less fortunate than most of us.
“Christmas doesn’t always contain the magic it should for some people for many different reasons,” Cr Morland said.
“Sadly, some children do not have families with which to share Christmas.
“However, the Berwick and District Woodworkers Club members have worked diligently throughout the year to craft a range of beautiful timber toys to be enjoyed by children. These toys will be gifted to children who may otherwise go without on Christmas morning,” he said.
Cr Morland said the community was fortunate to have people like Jack Croucher and his team of workers at the club who fashioned the toys each year.
“Club members are not around when the toys are given out, but I can assure you that there will be 400 little smiles when wonderful organisations give them out.
“These are the Berwick and District Benevolent Society, Salvation Army Cranbourne, and the Cardinia Combined Churches Caring (4C’s).”
Cr Morland noted that among the toys were cradles and tiny beds and that the Pakenham Patchwork and Quilters made small quilts for the beds.
“Rotary provides teddy bears for the Casey Hospital. I am sure that we can manage a few teddy bears to go in the cradles next year,” he said.
Club toy making coordinator Rick Hoare thanked people who supported the club with donations of timber and materials.
