Opportunity missed
A CHANCE to craft fine furniture from a fallen 100-year-old tree at Mossvale Park has been lost, according to woodworker Grant O”Neill.
A MIRBOO North resident is disappointed the trunk of a fallen oak at Mossvale Park has been sold.
Grant O’Neill said he was told the huge stump has been sold out of the region by South Gippsland Shire Council for $6000.
The keen woodworker wanted to use the trunk to create outdoor furniture for the popular park between Leongatha and Mirboo North.
The last remaining part of the tree, which fell down unexpectedly in mid-January, measured about 2m wide by 4m long.
Mr O’Neill estimated it should be enough to produce two big table top benches and seats.
“This is 100 years of history and we want to put it out for another 100 years of history,” he said.
“It’s a magnificent log. It’s too good of an opportunity to leave.
“It’s a big job. It’s not an easy task but I’m prepared to do it.”
The Wednesday Warriors and Men’s Shed groups at Mirboo North had been keen to take part in the furniture building project.
“It’s our timber. We didn’t want it going to Melbourne or anywhere,” he said.
South Gippsland Shire Council’s Jeannie Hicks confirmed the timber had been sold.
“However, in respect for commercial confidence I cannot disclose the buyer or the price,” she said.
“The tree was an Algerian Oak and I believe the timber was not suitable for outdoor furniture and that the proceeds of the sale will go toward Mossvale Park maintenance works.”
The trunk was sold via a tender process.
Mr O’Neill is a master craftsman who specialises in producing rustic furniture from abandoned timbers.
Examples of his work can be seen in the Grand Ridge Brewery at Mirboo North.
He is a huge supporter of Mossvale Park.
“One of the first times I came here was after my first communion when I was seven years old,” he said.
“I’ve always loved the trees here and have brought many people here.”
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