By Ron Lane
If the selectors of the Australian Cricket Team are looking for someone who can hit the big numbers then they should look no further than David Wilson of the Noosa Mens Shed. Affectionately known as Davo to his many mates Davo last week hit the big 90 and as his mates said “he is still batting strong.”
Gathering together in their club room for smoko last week the meeting was twofold. Not only was it too acknowledge that he was just 10 short of his century but also to pay tribute to the work that this inspiring man has been doing throughout the year; work that will no doubt, on Christmas bring smiles to the faces of hundreds of our children.
Each week when Davo, who travels from Nambour, walks into the carpenters shop he is a man on a mission. His mission is to continue making a variety of small wooden toys that will be passed on to the Salvation Army, who in turn, distribute them to families throughout our community.
“This shed has very good wood work facility, so we can cater for everything,” said Davo. “But most important the atmosphere in the place is really good. A great place to work.”
All his toys are made from pine and he makes a variety of four; tanks, trucks, cars and helicopters. “Once they are finished I give them a coat of vegetable oil: good for the timber but also its not harmful if the little ones happen to put one in their mouth; which they tend to do.”
After making a presentation of this years toys to a representative of the Salvation Army his mates then presented him with a huge birthday cake. On receiving this tribute Davo remarked, “Thank you one and all; I have been lucky to make ninety. Remember if you hit ninety enjoy it because you will only make it once. Making the toys is a pleasure, something I really enjoy.”
Mens Shed president Joe Cirello said of Davo, “He has been an inspiration to us all and we can’t thank him enough for all he is doing for the kids; this will make a lot of children very happy and help make their Christmas one to remember.”
With regard to the Mens Shed Past President Paul Asbury said, ‘’We started in 2014 and now have some 220 members: the recent financial support given to two of our branches, Maroochydore and Buderim by the Government, shows the respect that our organization now commands.”
If Davo, at 90 not out, is an example of local membership then we can rest assured that the future of this great charitable organisation is indeed in good hands. We wish them good luck and a Merry Christmas.
