CHOP CHOP, it’s time for Lyonville’s first major fundraiser in support of its beloved community hall.
The Lyonville Woodchop is the first fundraiser of the year to raise funds for the general maintenance and upkeep of the hall.
The Harvest Festival and Bake Off fundraisers take place later in the year.
Secretary of Lyonville Hall Committee, Dot Fuller, said in the past money had gone towards building a shed, purchasing tables and a ride on mower.
“The next major investments we would like to make are to build an outdoor picnic area with outdoor seating, garden and landscaping as well as upgrading the public toilets.”
George Bremner and his wife Anne are the primary coordinators of the historical woodchop event.
They have been involved for more than 30 years in various roles, including as coordinators and sponsors.
Mr Bremner said the woodchop event had been running in Lyonville for almost 60 years.
“Generally this has been a forestry area with sawmills and timber being cut for mines. So it was thought that a woodchop would coordinate with that. Lots of people had the right skills in the area,” he said.
The event has attracted several world champions in past years.
“We have several world champion axeman coming this year too,” Mr Bremner said.
One is Brayden Meyer, a fourth generation woodchopper, who holds a number of world titles. Another to see is Laurence O’Toole, a third generation chopper who holds both state and world record titles.
A number of woodchopping events will take place throughout the day, including the underhand, standing block, handicap, butcher’s block, open combination, veteran woodchop and hot saw events.
The total prize money amounts to $6000.
Other highlights will be a spinning wheel, best floral display, a free jumping castle, barbeque, food stalls and refreshments.
The ladies nail driving events will also be back this year, with a $50 prize for the lady who can drive the nails into the block at the fastest speed.
The Lyonville Woodchop will take place on February 9 from 10.30am. Admission is $5 per person.
The event coordinators are still looking for volunteers. If interested, contact Anne Bremner on 5348 5515.
