What a treat for those who attended our open day on 17 August 2014. We had Stan mending shoes, Bill explaining whittling (shaving bits of wood into beautiful objects), and Lockie, the Clydesdale. We had great attendance throughout the day; many children with parents and grandparents walking back into the “good old days” watching with wonder.
Lockie, our star Clydesdale stallion, a 7 year old at just over 17 hands, demonstrated his skills at harness. He wore a beautiful show harness, silver metal pieces, buckles, brass – even bells. Lockie was born at the Toolern Vale property of his owners. He will be presented over 4 days at the 2014 Royal Melbourne Show. We’re most grateful to Thelma and Robert for sharing the lovely, placid Lockie with us.
Stan, our cobbler for the day, turned back time to show us the artistry in mending shoes, applying the leather, shaping, hammering in place – the younger ones had never seen anything like it.
Our whittler for the day was Bill Llewellyn, a regular at Sovereign Hill, who brought along many pieces he had produced over time – straight from Bill’s hand, even a baby’s rattle. Wonderfully beautiful!
Indoors, we had a display of wooden pieces – a side-table with thistles climbing the legs and resting on the surface, as well as smaller pieces including a stationery box – even the tools used.
The recently relocated, renovated Police Cell was also open for inspection – autographs left by previous residents clearly visible brought wide-eyed expressions from those venturing inside.
A wonderful display with plenty of opportunity to unwind our tamed curiosity!
Wooden art
Baby’s rattle
Lockie in Show Harness
