Robbie Heritage, Joan Trenfield, Pat Ingram, Bette Phillips and Karen Coleman are organising a state Timber Memorial Service. 53210
A GIANT log stump stands as the lectern in Woori Yallock’s pioneer chapel.
The red gum trunk from the Barmah forest in northern Victoria is over six feet wide and was dedicated to the memory of Keith ‘Bones’ Poynton, who was killed in a logging accident at Mount Beauty in 2006. It also honours past members of the timber industry in Victoria.
The chapel was built to care for families in the valley and was dedicated to the timber workers of Victoria.
More than 200 people attended last year’s first Timber Memorial Service and the numbers are set to grow with statewide interest for the day of remembrance.
Chapel committee member Pat Ingram originally wanted to hold a memorial service to celebrate the life of her husband. Phillip Dickson. Mr Dickson was killed in a workplace incident at the Powelltown Sawmill two years ago.
Ms Ingram said the memorial evolved to be a day of remembrance for pioneers, sawmillers and former industry workers who have passed away.
Committee member Bette Phillips said families who would like to have relatives remembered were asked to submit photos and information to form an honour roll of workers.
“To have a place honouring the workers will ensure the memories of those hard, risky days are not forgotten,” she said.
Photos, stories and memorabilia are needed by 30 September to fill the memorial to be held at the Heritage Pioneers Chapel in Woori Yallock on Saturday 9 October from 11am.
To include a loved one’s memories in the Timber Memorial Service phone Leonie Lang on 5964 6500.
