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All (helping) hands on deck, Q1 summary from Carpentry Australia

What a remarkable beginning Carpentry Australia has had in 2024! To initiate the year, January saw us embark on an extraordinary journey across the west of Melbourne.

Our dedicated crew celebrated the exceptional talent within the carpentry community, culminating in the Carpentry Australia Christmas giveaway—an initiative designed to recognise outstanding individuals in the trade.

Nathan Quinn, Carpentry Australia Head of Development. Image: Carpentry Australia

Alex Rudzki, for significant apprentice contributions, claimed the first prize, while the second prize went to the remarkable Sarah Nibbs, a female carpenter making significant strides in the industry. This Christmas giveaway, conducted in collaboration with Empowered Women in Trades, underscored our commitment to diversity in the carpentry field.

Looking ahead to 2024, Carpentry Australia unfolds an extraordinary year with the launch of the Helping Hand Day National initiative, gaining support from Channel 7’s Sunrise and The Tradie magazine. Our inaugural Helping Hand Day featured Noreen Elliot, a volunteer with the St Vincent de Paul Society for 43 years, as the recipient. Channel 7’s Sunrise broadcasted specific stages of the event, highlighting the influence of collective community action. Generous sponsors contributed tools and resources, emphasising the strength of the community working together.

Image: supplied by Carpentry Australia

All together now

A crucial aspect of Helping Hand Day is the tremendous support from a range of generous sponsors, including Limitless Build, Canavan Constructions, Jenkinson Build, Habitat Carpenters, SMD Projects, Kraft Crew, Inspire Painting Group, Laurence Plumbing Group, SJ Carpentry, Coralie Landscapes, Precision Energy Electrical, Beaumade Builds, Tip Top Roofing, and Brad Candy Gardens. Suppliers like DeMar Timber and Hardware, EkoDeck, Nexteel, Tradie Wraps, Bendigo Bank – East Ivanhoe Community Branch, and King Gee reflect a diverse range of contributors supporting Carpentry Australia’s impactful mission.

At the Empowered Women in Trades Gala in February, Carpentry Australia’s Ashley Belteky and Felicity Pettiford received awards, contributing significantly to a more inclusive industry. Carpentry Australia’s ongoing commitment to recognising excellence and giving back remains a priority. 

On International Women’s Day – March 8 – Carpentry Australia took the opportunity to spotlight female stars like Hannah Keirl, Felicity Pettiford, Coralie Stuart, and Ashley Belteky. These individuals are highly valued members of the Carpentry Australia family.

With numerous new initiatives and opportunities launching to support our carpentry community, 2024 is indeed an auspicious time for Carpentry Australia.

Stay tuned for some further exciting updates.

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