WITH the presentation of a lifetime membership, the contributions of Jim Clark to the Hamilton Wood Turners Club have recently been recognised.

Jim has been part of the club since 1998 and his expertise and affable nature have been an asset to the many members who have learned how to turn raw wood into a wide array of furnishings and paraphernalia.

“I like doing little boxes (ring holders),” Jim said.

“(But) I’m a little bit out of practice – it could take about an hour and a half for one of those.”

Jim was also clear on his favourite type of wood for turning.

“We’ve got an excess of blackwood and red gum in this area, so they turn up particularly well,” he said.

“(If) you get the right bits of wood they can come up (well). Huon pine is particularly nice to turn – it’s not a local wood but it can give you good results.

“If you can get a bit of a pattern going, it looks terrific.”

Jim said the club doesn’t usually take orders, but members take a liking to a particular item they wish to make and sell them around the district markets, such as Tyrendarra, Yulecart, and monthly at HIRL (Hamilton Institute of Rural Learning), which offsets the membership fees.

Most of the members come from around Hamilton and he’s also enjoyed the involvement of women who have joined in over the years in learning the craft.

“The women are particularly good at wood turning,” Jim said.

“They don’t try and go too hard. They’re happy to take their time and turn out a good job.”

After being secretary of the club for a number of years, Jim is now happy to take on more of an assistant role, but his ongoing presence at the club and the wealth of experience he shares is definitely appreciated, as president, Stuart Robinson made clear.

“He’s a pretty knowledgeable young fella,” he quipped.

The Hamilton Wood Turners Club meets every Thursday from 10am–4pm for members and learners.

They also meet on the first Saturday of the month at 10am and third Saturday for members’ hands-on club work.

Annual membership fees are $25, juniors (under 18) $10 and learners $20.

More information can be found at hamiltonpastoralmuseum.com.au