Adamson, Douglas Henry

1932 -
QLD

Working as a timber cutter his entire life, Doug Adamson spoke fluent tree. His work saw him travel far and wide in such places as Tamborine Mountain, Springbrook, and Birrell Creek in Northern New South Wales.

In 1950, Doug first stepped foot in the Woodchopping arena at the age of 18. From here he began his competitive career which spanned over 40 years. Throughout this time, Doug travelled extensively throughout Australia and overseas competing where he could. Doug retired from competitive Woodchopping in 1996.

Doug was an all-round axeman, competing in all aspects of the sport, Tree Felling, Standing Block, Underhand and Sawing. However, Tree Felling was recognised as Doug’s strong suit winning most Tree Felling events, he entered.

Throughout his woodchopping career, Doug’s achievements are numerous and vast. Some of his most memorable achievements are winning a Tree Felling Handicap at Brisbane Show in 1956 with a prize of £90.00. Another was being one of a select few chosen to demonstrate the sport of Woodchopping to Her Majesty the Queen Mother, Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth II, and the Duke of Edinburgh in 1963 at the Brisbane Show Grounds. Another was been chosen to represent Queensland in the 1970 World Series in Tasmania, as well as represent Australia at the 1972 Narobi Show in South Africa.

Another memorable achievement was being one of the founders of the Brunswick Heads Fish and Chips Carnival, which he was adamant in attending each year. He competitively competed at the ‘Fish and Chip’ Carnival for over 30 years and was a steward for over 10 years.

Doug’s love of the sport was shown by the numerous time he spent analysing and preparing woodchopping blocks for various shows. Additionally, Doug organised and ensured the smooth running of carnivals.

The Queensland Axemen’s Association showed their appreciation of Doug’s love and contribution to the sport of Woodchopping by awarding him an Honorary Life Membership of the QAA in 1972.

The Adamson name is still well known in the chopping arena as his sons Gary and Bruce and grandson Joshua shared the love for the sport and followed suit. Gary and Joshua are still competing today.

Alexander, John Chalmers “Jack”

1917 - 1998
VIC

John Chalmers Alexander, known as Jack, was born at Cobden on 28th December 1917 and apart from the war years, spent all his life in the arena. He was born to Peter and Ivy Alexander; Jack was the fifth born of seven children.

Prior to enlisting in WWII, he worked with the Rivers and Waters in the 1930’s laying the original pipeline form the Otway Ranges to Cobden reservoir.

Jack Alexander life member of the Western Victorian Axemen’s Association. Jack’s love of woodchopping started very early. As a teenager after a long day work, he would walk of cycle to a training session. On weekends he would work half a day and be off to a woodchop as soon as he finished.

Jack was a good axeman and had quite a few successes around the carnivals. he competed at Melbourne, Sydney, and Adelaide Royal Shows. One win he was particularly proud of was with his son, Stan, at the 1964 Bendigo Show in the father and son event. Reputed to have been the first cut of this event in Victoria. He best achievement was winning the South Australian Standing Block Championship at the 1947 Adelaide Show.

For many years Jack was a log getter for various carnivals. This was no easy task as carnival were well attended those days and the job was done with an axe and crosscut saw. No chainsaws or loading equipment that we have today. As well as this Jack acted as a Ring Steward, setting up cradles, judging or whatever needed to be done. Jack was President and handicapper in the WVAA. He was awarded life membership of the WVAA in 1973.

Health reasons forced Jack to give up competing in the 1980’s. This did not stop jack from being a ring steward at the Royal Melbourne Show for 20 years.

Jack died on the 4th April 1998, he was survived by wife Alma, daughters Linda and Carol and son Stan. Son Robert predeceased him in 1983.

Andersen, Gordon Harold

12/02/1952
SA

Gordon has said that the sport of woodchopping has given him many proud moments. He has been a proud son watching his father win many cops and then a proud father watching his own sons come through the sport. “There is a great deal of pride” when you see them stand on their log and compete well.

Over a career spanning 58 years he has seen a great deal of Australia as he followed the sport he has loved since childhood. He has made many friends and says, “friendships in this sport are for a lifetime”.

Gordon is a much-valued member of our Sport. He is an example of all that is good in a club member and a sportsman. He is one of the first to arrive when there is work to be done, whether getting or trimming logs, setting up at carnivals or any of the many tasks needed for a successful carnival – he also helps with all the clean-up after a carnival.

Gordon’s love for the Sport developed at an early age watching his father, Ted, compete. He also “got into” the sport at an early age.

As a four-year-old he was a mascot for the South Easter Axemen’s Association. A representative of Hytest axes was at Mount Gambier Show and wanted him to be photographed with an axe to “show: their axes in action. They provided him with a little Hytest Axe and his father, Ted has an association blazer made for him – so he set to chopping, stopping now and again through the chop for a photo “opportunity”.

In 1967 Gordon, aged 15, cut in the South Australian Junior Championship at the Royal Adelaide Show – his first competitive event at a Royal Show. He cut against Mike Fullgrabe, who won the event. Gordon came second – he believes he could have won the event if he had not been so nervous with his mind on the huge crowd and not the wood.

IN 1970, as a 17-year-old, he travelled to Tasmania on the boat “Australian Trader” to the World Centenary of Woodchopping as a member of the South Australian Woodchopping Team. Gordon has related that this was a real eye opener to see the world’s best woodchoppers and the huge crowds, 10,000 people to watch, children collect a chip, then go around getting it signed by famous axemen.

At 28 years, Gordon was already well into everything his loved sport entailed. There was a New Year’s Day chop at Vansittart in Mt Gambier and Gordon organised the logs for it. He went to Phillips Track in the Otway’s, felled one tree across the track – out of that he got enough logs to do the whole woodchop there was not one know in any log. All the competitors commented – it was beautiful wood.

As a 30-year-old, strong and well versed in the skill and precision necessary achieved through many years of watching and listening to other axemen who were happy to share their knowledge. One of these great axemen was Jim Alexander who had a great influence on Gordon – he not only taught Gordon to cut a log correctly, he taught him to believe in himself and the power of positive thinking. Gordon took on board Jim’s four most important things in woodchopping: Breathing, Relaxation, Confidence and Common sense. And he followed up with the instruction to always stand up straight and fill up with air before an event. Jim excelled in the Underhand, and there was no-one better to teach a young man the art of woodchopping than a big strong man who was a gentle giant and a world champion axeman who loved giving advice and helping others. Gordon has said that it was great thrill for him to have Jim helping him and that Jim inspired him to go home and PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE.

At Loxton Show on one weekend in October Gordon found out what it was like to be the backmarker in an event. It was a three-board tree and Gordon’s handicap were 100 seconds behind, so he stood and, anxiously, watched the others who had such a head start on him. When his log came off there was a huge roar and the crowd went crazy. When he looked down the line and saw that he had won, it was a huge thrill for him.

One of the highlights of Gordon’s career was not about his own performance he and his father, Ted, went to Brunswick Heads and on the last day Ted won the underhand and the standing block. This gave him the aggregate points for the carnival and one very proud son.

Gordon has said that this sport of woodchopping has given him many proud moments. He has been a proud son watching his father win many chops and has then been a proud father watching his own sons come through the sport. “There is a great deal of pride when you see them stand on their log and compete well”.

Gordon has a love of his sport which has seen him go “above and beyond” to ensure that this great family sport, with three generation of his family, continues.

Gordon now resides in Victoria and has been a member of the Western Australian Axemen’s Association for several years. He has continued his dedication to the sport he loves, taking on anything that needs to be done including the “hard stuff”.

While Gordon is now in the veteran class, his successes continue, and he shows no signs of slowing down. He has had some memorable wins – the much converted “Wills Memorial Standing Block” on three occasions, has had several wins in veteran’s events and still frequently turns up in the placings.

Gordon is now passing on his skills to our new and our younger axemen as a coach and assessor for the Western Victorian Axemen’s Association. He has been a committee member for several years and is also an assistant handicapper.

Over a career spanning 58 years, he has seen a great deal of Australia as he followed the sport he has loved since childhood. “I’ve been everywhere” does not quite fit but it comes awfully close in taking in: Far North Queensland, the Atherton Tablelands, Brunswick Heads, through Gippsland, Tasmania, Western Victoria, Perth, Jarrahdale, and all-over South Australia.

These give but a few of the many highlights of long and enjoyable career but, when asked on the occasion, Gordon gave the following as the greatest:

Having known and been coached by Jim Alexander, one of our sport’s true gentlemen, and Gordon’s hero – who, to this day, he still misses. Another important part of the sport he loves is the many friends he has made – “friendships in this sport are for a lifetime.”

Andersen, Ted

SA

Ted first commenced woodchopping in 1950 in the South East of South Australia around Mt Gambier and in 1956 stooped woodchopping to concentrate on building his own home.

In 1964 he commenced woodchopping again and it was not long before he was the backmarker competing in various events throughout South Australia and Victoria. In 1964, he became President of the South East Axemen’s Association, a position he still holds today and is a life member of that Association. He has also been the President of the South Australian Axemen’s Council.

Since 1971, Ted has been the Chairperson of the Mt Gambier Show woodchopping committee and has done a tremendous job in ensuring that woodchopping at the Mt Gambier Show is a continuing tradition.

Ted has competed at the Royal Adelaide Show on numerous occasions and was placed in the SA Residents State Underhand Championship and Standing Block Championships.

In 1970, Ted was Captain of the South Australian Team that competed in Tasmania and at Brunswick Heads where he won the 300mm Underhand and 300mm Standing Block. Again in 1974, he was Captain of the South Australian Team that went to Tasmania and he finished 3rd in the Government Thousand.

During the following years and up until his retirement from competing in woodchopping events in 1999, Ted competed in South Australia and Western Victoria.

Ted still has an involvement in the sport by following his son and grandsons who compete in woodchopping events in South Australia and Western Victoria. He also assists by judging some events.

Throughout the years, Ted has enjoyed the friendships that he has made with people in the sport of woodchopping.

Beams, Dale

12/07/1965
TAS
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS – including 8 World Titles
World 375mm Standing Block
Sydney Royal Show
World 300mm Combination
Scottsdale TAS
World 300mm Standing Block
Devonport TAS
World 300mm Springboard
Hayward USA
World 300mm Springboard
Hayward USA
World Stihl Timbersports Team Championship
2014
World 375mm Jack & Jill Sawing
Devonport TAS
World 375mm Jack & Jill Sawing
Burnie TAS
Captain Australian Men’s Woodchopping Team
Australian Team member of many occasions
Australian Champion of Champions – twice
Tasmanian Champion of Champions – 12 times
Countless Australian, Tasmanian and club Championships
Only competitor to have won the prestigious Eric Reece Memorial Thousands twice
1985 (front marker), 2008 (backmarker)

Dale is a 2nd generation woodchopper starting out in the sport at the age of 14 and still competing some 44 years later. Dale was guided through his career by his father Tony Beams, Uncle Bob Beams and legend Bill Youd. Dale is an all-round competitor having chopped and sawed in every discipline of the sport, with the Standing Block his favoured discipline. Dale is regarded as one of the fiercest competitors when it comes to National representation. He has great rivalry with many of the greatest axemen in the world present and past. Dale believes Timbersports is a great addition to the elite axeman’s calendar and Australia will continue to dominate due to mentoring of our axemen from such a young age. Competing and winning the Stihl Timbersports Team Championship in 2014 is rated as one of the best moments in his career; alongside winning the World 375mm Standing Block in Sydney. Dale introduced his wife Amanda into the sport in 1988 and have sawed, very successfully together in Jack & Jill events ever since. They have 2 sons, Zack and Daniel who are continuing the Beams tradition in the sport of woodchopping.

Dale’s contribution to the sport stems off the field as well, serving in Executive and Committee roles:

• Committee member of the NTAA his entire career
• President of the NTAA
• Vice-President of the AAA
• President of the AAA
• President of the Royal Launceston Show Society
• Manager – Australian U/21 team
• Manager – Australian Women’s team
• An integral part of the Australian Axeman’s Hall of Fame project

Dale loves the sport of woochopping not only for the competition but the opportunities it has given him to travel globally and making special friendships along the way.

It has certainly been a wonderful journey and one that will continue for as long as possible.

CONGRATULATIONS DALE

Binns, Geoffrey

1925 - 1993
TAS

At the young age of 16 years he began competitive chopping, attending carnivals with his father and two younger brothers in most of the country towns in Tasmania. Geoff was a fine standing young man, six foot three inches tall, and weight in at eighteen stone. Success was easy for this talented young man who had natural ability with axe in hand.

Geoff was a great threat to the champions of the day. He would borrow an axe from other axemen and without any training he would enter the ring and regularly win the event of the day.

During his sporting career Geoff won many Tasmanian Championships and World Titles cutting standing blocks of many different girths. At Pioneer he won the underhand and standing combination defeating world champion Merv Youd. In the World Series at Penguin Tasmania, Geoff won the Thirty-Nine Inch Standing Championship.

In an interview given many years ago by Neville French from Wynyard Tasmania, Neville stated that his toughest opponent in woodchopping championships was Geoff Binns.

Geoff spent his working life employed in sawmills, also Bushing Timber, Truck Driving, and the Police Force. He was a very active member of the Launceston Aero Club gaining a Pilot’s Licence and flying small aircraft.

He was married to Gwen Cunningham in the 18th November 1950. Five children were born to this couple. It was very sad for his family when Geoff was killed instantly in a trucking accident near Bridport on the 19th January 1993.

Always remembered and fondly known as ‘Big Geoff’ to all his sporting colleagues in Australia.

Binns, Mervyn Vincent

10/07/1932
TAS

Mervyn Vincent Binns was born at St Helens on July 10th, 1932. He spent his childhood at Pyengana and at the age of 14 he began competitive chopping, his eldest brothers Leslie and Geoffrey who were both axemen, taught and encouraged Merv to be spirited in the sport.

Mervyn’s first taste of success was at St Mary’s Hospital Carnival, and from then on, he was always ready for a challenge with younger and older men in his field.

His most exciting win was in 1964 at Ulverstone where he won the 4th annual Tasmanian Thousand Chop on a mark of 7 seconds, clocked at 20 seconds taking home a trophy and cheque for 750 pounds.

In the North Eastern Tasmanian Carnivals, Merv was the most successful Axeman, and won A Grade Championship for many years.

Merv excelled in the discipline of sawing with crosscut saws, introducing and teaching many younger sportsmen and women the tricks of this trade. Thus, introducing the female gender to the woodchop arena as Jack & Jills.

In his latter hears he competed at Royal Melbourne and Adelaide Shows always bringing home winnings. A moment of glory for Merv was in 1991 at the Royal Adelaide Show where Merv teamed up with Eric Rattray to win the 400mm Butchers Block Standing Handicap in 39 seconds. The Award of Merit was presented to Mervyn at the Scottsdale Show in November 2002 in recognition of his outstanding services to the association and to the sport in general.

Retirement from competitive chopping came about when Merv experienced a heart attack in 2006. Fortunately, with his strong will and determination, Merv still enjoys the carnivals and these days offers advice to the younger competitors.

Blanc, Gus

1876 - 1959
VIC

In 1904 at Launceston Gus again won both world titles. Later in 1904 Gus toured New Zealand and, at Eltham, he won the 2-foot Standing Block Championship of New Zealand. Back in Australia Gus went to Western Australia and won both standing block and underhand championships.

In 1906 Gus won the Australian 6ft girth Underhand Championship in 1 min. 56 secs.

Gus Blanc was a very good all-round sportsman, playing football and tennis as well as woodchopping. At one sports carnival Gus won both the 18inch standing block, 20 inches underhand, then went on to win both the 75 yards and 100 yards sprint, high jump, and long jump.

For many years Gus was handicapper of the Yarram branch of the South and Central Gippsland Axemen’s Assoc.

In 1950, now retired, he was honoured for 50 years of axeman ship. Over many years Gus also shared his knowledge and trained many locals.

Breton, Bob

1909 - 1997
QLD

After his father died 1922 his mother was concerned for their future. There was little return for farming as most was uncleared and unfenced.  After cutting scrub and building bridges and fences for a few years he developed quite a skill with axes seeing Axemen perform at the local shows the idea presented itself.  I can do that!

So, the next year 1930 nominated for the events at Maleny show and won 8 pounds the next week rode his horse to Woodford and won 12 pounds and 10 shillings.  Later, in the year he won a further 10 pounds at Delaney’s creek sports that amount of winning in those days was enough inspiration.

In over 40 years of competition he travelled to Sydney, Melbourne and Tasmania and many times to Brisbane royal show.  One of the greatest thrills was being presented life member of the QLD axeman’s Assn. Lionel Jensen the then president and Col Barker sec/tres. Two of Bobs famous crosscut saws that has won 15 world titles in the hands of different Axemen were presented to Caboolture Historical Village Axemen’s Hall of Fame when Bob was 82.  Amongst this many achievement – 1938 Sydney Royal Show – placed 3rd respectively to Bill Johnston 2nd, Vic Summers 1st in the World Tree felling Championship.

In the 1950’s he won numerous champions and placing ribbons from Double Handed Sawing to Tree felling in Royal Shows.

1964 – standing Veterans-Sydney

1981 – Sydney – special prize – 250mm underhand handicap 70 years and over Veterans – purple ribbon.  Just to name a few.

Axeman and Farmer

Caldwell Family

-
VIC
William James Caldwell & his five sons

William arrived in Australia at the age of 3. He became a farmer but, after many years of farming he moved to a bush block & became a very good axeman. He encouraged his sons to follow him into the sport. He was also very good at preparing racing axes and passed this skill on to his sons.

The eldest son Les was a very good axeman and, at the age of 24, he won the 15inch Underhand World Title, Tree felling and Double Handed Sawing at the Sydney Royal Show.

Les was a better underhand cutter than standing block but his chopping included many notable successes in both disciplines.

Joe was also a very good axeman with one of his most memorable and treasured success being a win in the 15inch Standing Block Championship at the 1929
Royal Melbourne Show. As well as his chopping skills Joe was renowned for his ability in sharpening and grinding racing axes. He was also able to make handles for axes, farming implements and gun stocks.

Jim’s (William James Jr.) expertise was no less than that of his older brothers – with a notable win at Dandenong Show, during the depression, of 100 pounds. Jim was very capable & successful in all disciplines of the sport. He held the record of 19secs for the 12inch underhand until early 1970. He was a willing coach for new axemen & ran training days at his property for them

Alf was not quite as successful in all aspects of woodchopping, but he was an excellent tree climber, especially with spurs. Alf was employed by sawmills to cut the tops out of trees & was fearless. While not as prolific as his brothers, Alf was an excellent axeman, a very able teacher & willingly shared his knowledge.

Ken carried on the family tradition of excellence & competed well into later life.

He also has the ability to grind axes & readily passed this & his woodchopping skills to younger axemen.

THE CALDWELL FAMILY

William James Caldwell 1869 – 1942

Sons of William James Caldwell

Les Caldwell 1901 – 1981,

Joseph Caldwell 1905 – 1981

William James Caldwell Jr 1910 – 1981,

Alf Caldwell 1911 – 1987

Ken Caldwell 1921 – 1994

All Champion Axemen

William James Caldwell & his five sons

Clifford, Arthur

1934 - 2020
TAS

Arthur began his woodchopping career at the age of 23. Weighing only 10.5 stone, he was considered light for the sport and found it a great challenge to win against much heavier competitors.

Arthur was from a large family and found it hard to obtain a good axe for competition until one day he found and old ‘plumb’ with a chunk broke out of it. He ground the axe to a fine edge and won his first chop at the Cornish Mount Hotel.

At the age of 28 he took up tree felling, winning at the Royal Hobart Show, followed by successes at all the major shows in Australia.

Arthur has been associated with his local club Cygnet for many years and coaching the younger competitors. He has designed a new axe and has great skill in free hand grinding of axes. He makes all types of handles out of Tasmanian Blackwood which is considerably cheaper than hickory, and some axemen say, a superior handle. He found also that ordinary crack willow was very light and strong for shoe boards and is recognised as the preferred board timber.

He designed and innovative tree holding clam which saved 25% of the pole wood. The modern clamp is an update of Arthur’s design which spread to every state in Australia.

Career Highlights: 

  • His tally of tree wins at age 72 in excess of 130
  • At age 70 he won the Royal Hobart Show tree felling handicap, the oldest to have done so.
  • He won at the gala 150th Royal Perth Show.
  • Won 2 gold and 1 silver medal at the Australian Masters Games
  • Represented Tasmania against the rest of Australia in Melbourne 3 times.
  • Represented Australia in the veteran’s competition in New Zealand aged 65.
  • Has been selected in the Australian over seventy’s vs New Zealand February 2007.
  • Awarded Axe person of the year 1998.

Clifford, Judy

08/11/1943
TAS

Judy was born on the 8th November 1943 and was introduced to the sport of woodchopping at the age of ten. Her two brothers were competitive axemen and her father spent many hours preparing axes for many competitors, so she was very familiar with the sport from a young age.

Judy joined the very first Ladies Committee of the Southern Tasmanian Axemen’s Association (STAA) along with her mother, who managed a catering tent for the axemen and their families.

Judy met Arthur Clifford when he joined the STAA. They married and had 5 children. She served as president of STAA and two separate terms at treasurer.

Judy had a few years break from the committee, and is currently president, Patron and Promotions Officer and she was awarded the Axemen’s certificate of Merit and Axe person of the year 1998.

Conole, Martin William

15/02/1932
QLD
Martin William Conole

With Joan’s support, Martin has been able to have such a long competitive career.

Martin William Conole was born in Atherton Private Hospital on the 15th of February 1932. He grew up on a dairy farm overseeing his own dairy herd at 14 years of age, he had his own bullock team at a very young age. He married Joan in June 1956 and has reared 6 children on their dairy farm at North Johnstone. With Joan’s support, Martin has been able to have such a long competitive career.

Martin started wood chopping career in 1952 competing at The Butchers Creek Sports Day winning his first novice 12inch standing block.

His second win of his career was at the May Day Sports in Malanda in 1954 chopping a 13inch standing block. In 1956 he had another Novice win at the Malanda Show in September chopping a 12inch standing block.

In 1961 at the Innisfail Show Martin won a McCulloch chainsaw as the major prize for 12inch combination chop (underhand and standing). This win set him up for a lifetime of cutting trees. The chainsaw enables Martin to be the first person to be employed by the Main Roads Department with a chainsaw to fell trees along the Gillies Highway for the widening of the road. With this work Martin was able to pay a deposit on his own farm where he milked cows up until 2001.

Martin has chopped at 60 consecutive Malanda Shows since 1954.

Martin has chopped at consecutive Atherton Shows since 1957, Mossman Shows since 1960, Tully Shows 1960, Mareeba Rodeo 1960 and Malanda Pub Chop 1986 and many other festivals and events around the local and broader areas.

Adelaide Show has been a favourite of Martins cutting 20 out of 21 years beginning in 1986.

From Martin’s view one of the most outstanding achievements for him was a tree felling event in 1965 that he won the first prize of 50 pounds.

Martin retired from tree felling in his 70th year in 2004.

Martin’s son Glen has followed in his father’s footsteps and has completed at local woodchops and events.

A highlight in Martin’s career is his involvement in the 2 veteran’s representation to New Zealand in 1997 & 2007. The 2007 team is the only veteran’s team over 70 to travel overseas.

Isaac Egan from the ABC has produced a video in late 2014 that is available to be viewed on the ABC website where Marty acknowledges that he is a self-confessed ‘chop-a-holic’.

In November 2006 Martin suffered a heart attack and underwent bypass surgery on 20th March 2007 and competed at the Peeramon Pub Pig Hunt Woodchop on the 10th June 2007 less than 3 months after his surgery.

At 83 years of age Martin is still chopping, trimming, and preparing for the upcoming show circuit with the same enthusiasm as in his early career.

Martin William Conole

Coulson, Geoff

13/12/1929
TAS

Geoff Coulson was born on 13th December 1929 on Garden Island Creek near Cygnet to parents William (Bill) and Ethel Coulson (nee Bone). Geoff was one of 6 siblings Henry (Harry) Coulson Leila Seabourne (Coulson) and half Raymond, Arthur, and Ellis Denny.

Geoff started in the sport in 1958 and soon developed into a competent axeman and sawyer.

Throughout those years Geoff has been heavily involved not only in the competitive side but also in the administration of the sport. He has held positions of President, Treasurer and Committee Member of the Southern Tasmanian Axemen’s Association and the position of Handicapper/Starter for 20 years.

In 2003 he was awarded Tasmanian Axeman of the year by the Tasmanian Axemen’s Council.

Geoff has been a staunch supporter and organiser of carnivals at Cygnet, Glenorchy, Brighton, and Bridgewater High Farm School. He has been involved with his local club at Cygnet since the sixties and has held the position of President for 18 years.

In 1973/74, when the World Series Championships were held on the North West Coast, a Timber Prices s Competition was held to raise funds for each division. Each division provided an entrant and Geoff, along with his late wife Margaret and family, tirelessly supported their daughter, Sue, as the Southern Division entrant. Much personal sacrifice was made to raise approximately $4,500 for the Southern Division.

In 1979, Geoff was an instigator in starting up the ‘Golden Years’ format. This was for axemen over the age of 50. This concept developed and is eagerly contested today. He also initiated the successful ‘Coach and Novice’ sawing events to encourage and promote new sawyers. He has been a great supporter of women’s involvement in the sawing and encourages the ‘Jack and Jill’ and ‘Jill and Jill’ events. More recently, he has made an attempt to rejuvenate the tree felling by introducing a two-bard tree. He is a strong support of the Ladies Committee and assists his partner Pat in their activities.

Now, 55 years later, and in his 84th year, Geoff is still officiating as a starter and still organising carnivals in the Southern Division.

Cowen, Peter George

02/02/1935
TAS

George was born on the 2nd of February 1935 into a woodchopping family. His father chopped along with 3 of his uncles & 5 of his brothers.

He first sawed when he & his brother cut down a tree to build his first home. George started chopping & sawing when he was 15. 1950 Port Arthur Sports carnival was his first chop. George has competed with his brothers, son, daughters, granddaughters & grandsons along with numerous others during his 63-year sporting career.

In 1978 George & Tony Watson sawed an 18inch hardwood log in 7 secs – it is recorded in the Guinness Book of records. In 1986 George’s hand was almost severed in a chainsaw accident in the bush – after microsurgery he was told he would never chop or saw again. With determination & a special sawing handle George returned to his sport.

His highlight – sawing with David Foster & winning. As a 40-year committee member, mentor to youth & newcomers, log hauler & trimmer and a still enthusiastic competitor George, at 80 is a popular & much valued member.

Crane, Robert Henry

20/06/1922
TAS

Robert Henry Crane was born on the 20th of June to parents John and Linda and resides in Strahan, Tasmania. He had six children, Joanne, John, Patty, Linda, Michael, and Kelly.

Robert worked as a sawmiller in Strahan and in the West Coast of Tasmania. His favourite pastimes include playing 8 ball and woodchopping, his favourite event being the foot standing block.

Robert or ‘Cowboy’ has won many events and has travelled Australia competing however never kept any records. He received an Australian Axemen’s Association Award of Merit, competed in the Masters Games in 1991 at the age of 79 and was still competing in his 80s.

Achievements

  • Strahan Regatta 1975 – 1977 10inch Standing Block – 1st place
  • WTAA – 300mm Handicap – 2nd place, C grade – 2nd place
  • Chudleigh 1983 – 250mm = 3rd place, and 1991 300mm – 1st place
  • Inaugural Tasmanian Indoor Axemen’s Championship – 1991 – 2nd place
  • Strahan Piners Festival – 300mm Standing Championship – 3rd place
  • Rosebery Axeman’s Club – 1981 300m Underhand – 1st place

Robert is known as a great storyteller, was notorious for leaving his gear behind at the events and is also the last surviving Huon Piner.

He started chopping around 18 years of age and chopped into his early 80s. Now 90 years old and no doubt would still have a go at chopping a block.

Davey, Aubrey William Charles

1897 - 1972
TAS

Known as William or Bill Davey he was seen around the chopping areas in the late twenties and early thirties. Among his many trophies was a giant cup which he won in 1932 at the Deloraine Sports meet. This trophy was awarded to him for winning the twelve-inch Tasmanian Championship chop. On the same day he also won the Golden Valley and Alverston Handicap. The ten-inch Golden Valley Handicap was cut in eleven seconds, this was the fastest time ever for a ten-inch chop. That time was held by Bill for many years until Merv Youd broke it.

Quote from the Examiner November 1931:

The feature of Saturday’s events was the success of W. Davey of Westbury who scooped the pool by winning the Tasmanian Championship, the Alverston Handicap, and the Golden Valley Handicap. Most interest centred on the chopping matches of which there were three and there was considerable hilarity when W. Davey chopped his way through three heats, a semi-final and three finals and bagged the lot. Davey received a great ovation which he thoroughly deserved. The finals of the Golden Alverston Handicaps followed in succession, so he did very well to win.

He invented and made the first Judging Machine for chopping in the 1920s. Over the nest years he made three machines and hired them out to chopping meets throughout the North and North West of Tasmania. One was later sold to the Northern Axemen’s Association. The idea of making a Judging Machine came about because some competitors showed dissatisfaction with the judges’ decisions which was then made with the eye.

Bill was one of the Tasmanian axemen who was chosen to chop in front of the Duke of Gloucester when he visited Burnie in 1934. He chopped through the 18inch block and was awarded fought on the day.

Bill had eight sons and five of those eight used the axe with some success. They were Owen, Henry, Charlie, David, and Barry. For some it was merely a sport to enjoy with their dad on the North West Coast, but Henry took to the ring with great enthusiasm and won many trophies in the fifties and early sixties. Barry the second youngest of the boys talks about the time when Bill and he chopped together and the Kindred Sports (Bill was 65). Bill was the winner and Barry was second. On the second chop of the day the winner was reversed.

Devine, Ken

05/05/1922
TAS

Ken won his first chop at the age of 15 at New Norfolk.

He won his first Championship in 1939, at the Royal Hobart Show, from the late Joe Tate and Maurice Duggan (Snr).

Ken has won several Underhand and Standing Tasmanian, Australian and World Titles. He was better known in the underhand events, and regardless of the size or types of wood, he was always the hardest to defeat. HE still holds the record in the 12-inch underhand State and Australian Championship with a time of 13 seconds.

His most memorable moment was defeating the late Jack O’Toole in both Standing and Underhand World Championships at the Royal Hobart Show.

Ken was the winner of the 15-inch Underhand Tasmanian Championship for eight consecutive years at Franklin. Also, the 42 inch (girth), for eight consecutive years at Bream Cree and Sand-fly.

He won the 15-inch World Title at Scottsdale, defeating Australian Champions Les Caldwell and Jack O’Toole.

Ken’s last World Title was at Westbury in 1960, the 10-inch combination in 24.20 seconds, defeating all Tasmanian Champions.

Ken has been competing for 63 years and is still quite keen to have a cut whenever he can. He has been a great mentor to several axemen, including some Tasmanian Champions and dearly loves the sport.

Donnelly, Albert

1916 - 1989
NSW
Albert Donnelly

Albert was a valued member of the North Coast Axemen’s Association throughout his woodchopping career

Albert Henry Donnelly was born in Macksville 18th July 1916 (died 29th Dec 1989) and was one of 15 children. His father was a teamster and worked in the timber industry. Albert was a timber man by trade and worked with his brother Wes logging. Albert left school when he was 13 to go log falling with an axe and owned a bullock team to pull his logs out when he was 15. He lived at Warrell Creek which later became Donnellyville.

Albert was busy making a living so didn’t start chopping competitively until he was in his early 30’s and he retired from woodchopping in 1976 at the age of 60. Earliest ribbon found was a first at Dorrigo Bushman’s Carnival 1945. Albert was not a very tall man but was very strong and excelled in the standing block and combination events. Albert was placed 4th in the 14” SB World Championship at Coffs Harbour on the 11-4-1964. Albert did not travel to the Royal Shows very often as he felt he could not afford to be away from work that long.

Albert won many championships within the North Coast and it surrounds. At Gosford Albert won both the 13” Underhand and 13” Standing Block championships each worth 100 pound in 1958.

One of Alberts biggest financial wins was in 1955 when he won the ALDCC May Day Sports Day Queensland Axemen’s Association 150 Pound 13” Standing block. This was several months’ pay to Albert.

In 1956 at Taree, Albert won the 13” Standing Block Championship beating Jim Lavis a champion axemen of this time, and Jim when asked by Les Slee why did he let Donnelly beat him, Jim reportedly replied “ he would have beat you as well if you had been there”.

Albert also competed annually the North Coast National Exhibition at Lismore competing regularly in the Interstate Relay NSW vs QLD and captaining the team on many occasions. He also loved taking the family to Brunswick Heads regularly to compete.

Albert was a valued member of the North Coast Axemen’s Association throughout his woodchopping career. He and his brother Wes supplied woodchop blocks for the Macksville and surrounding shows for over 30 years.

Albert Donnelly

Duryea, Ian

02/12/1944
VIC

Outstanding service to the Sport

Ian had always had an interest in woodchopping & in 1967 began assisting Deans Marsh Gymkhana & Sports Day – making cradles for the “Mugs Chop” & participating. Even after several years of this he did not take up woodchopping until an employee entered him in a carnival in 1983 & dared him to have a go. The rest is history. Not only did he compete in all the local events he went to all the trimming sessions, assisted at carnivals, and took on anything else that needed doing. When helpers became a bit scarce Ian took on the job of getting the logs for all the WVAA carnivals with helpers Wray Trotter, then Rodger & then Frank Harrington – this involved taking their own vehicles to the bush, falling the logs, cutting to length, matching, loading & bringing to the trimmer, unloading, trimming, reloading & delivering to carnivals. At this time Ian decided some labour-saving devices were needed. He bought an older truck & fitted it with a crane – logs were now loaded and unloaded more easily & came home in lengths & a supply could be kept instead of having to get them before each carnival. This meant they needed to be looked after so part of his paddock was given over to a log stack. This has been a 27-year commitment. Ian has also been WVAA handicapper for 25 years. Over this time in our Sport he has introduced, trained & supported several new members of all ages but has always had leaning to juniors & ensuring they learn correctly & safely. Ian has also built 3 Log Trimmers, all still in use today. While no longer competing Ian’s service to his Sport continues.

Ian loved the competition & travelled all over Victoria & into Sth. Australia to follow the carnivals. He competed at Canberra, Adelaide, Melbourne & Sydney Royal Shows & was lucky enough to have a least one win at all of them. Ian was never a champion axeman and really had no expectation that he would be – he was just there to enjoy it. He was a neat & precise cutter & made it to bout the middle mark in S/B and a bit beyond middle in the U/H. On three occasions Ian cut for Victoria at the Sydney Royal. Much to his surprise, Ian also cut on World of Sport on channel 7. Ian’s favourite event was the DHS & he achieved quite a lot of success in this with wins at Canberra, Adelaide, Melbourne & Sydney Royals.

Ian gave up competitive chopping in 2011 after 3 lots of open-heart surgery.

While many people get into the sport via a family connection, this wasn’t the case for Ian but he was very interested, recently to find a family connection to one of the founding members of WVAA- Thomas Jacka, from Cobden was a great, great uncle.

Ian was made a Life Member of his Association in 2003.

Eaves, Dudley George

1919 - 2002
TAS

Married Margrett Jean Walters on 17/12/1941 and had a family of five children. Eleanor, Beryl, Dick, Barry, and Anne. Started woodchopping at the age of 14. At the young age of 16 Dudley won his first woodchop nine mile to borrow a crosscut saw returned to win the double handed sawing with his late father George Eaves who was also a great champion in woodchopping. Grandfather Harry Eaves died that same day, his one wish was fulfilled to see son and grandson win a sawing championship. Dudley kept on competing in the woodchopping sport and went on competing in the woodchopping sport and went on to a very successful career as competitor winning six world titles, 15 state titles with the first eleven straight.

Two of the world titles were double-handed sawing which Dudley teamed up with Circular Head axeman LR Jack Boot. Some of the highlights of Dudley’s career saw him starting as a back-marker off a handicap of 30 seconds behind, still to win by enormous. At a woodchopping carnival at Edith Creek, Dudley won the foot championship, foot championship, single and double-handed sawing in one day.

Dudley’s career in woodchopping continued for the rest of his life, once he finished competing, he carried on with his wealth of knowledge and skill in sharpening crosscut saws for other axemen. Dudley and two of his brothers, Harry and Norrie Eaves were known throughout Australia and the world as probably the best saw sharpeners of the world as probably the best saw sharpeners of their time. Dudley also enjoyed other sports in life – he was an “A” grade golfer, played badminton, eight ball, football, and cricket. As a musician he played for many parties and dances in Circular Head.

Eaves, Norman (Norrie)

01/02/1931
TAS

Area Born: Smithton

Area/Areas Resided: Roger River, Penguin, Elliot, Waratah, Yolla, Burnie and Somerset
Family Names – Mother, Father: Ruby and George Eaves

Wife: Yvonne

Children: Gregory, Carol, Neville, Trevor, Janice and Michael

Occupation, where worked: Bricklayer (self-employed) and APPM

Favourite pastime/hobbies: Playing golf, reading and watching sport

Favourite discipline in woodchopping: Standing block

Records, event type, date, whereabouts:

Won foot standing at New Year’s Day Sport Carnival (1953)

Won foot standing in a time of 18.25 seconds at New Year’s Day Sports Carnival (1968)

Won foot standing at Royal Melbourne Show (1978)

Won several foot handicaps over the years

Achievements

Won double-handed sawing handicap with Vic Jaeger (Dec) and Sydney Royal Easter Show (1949)

Won singe-handed Tasmanian Sawing Championship at Wynyard Show (1976)

Won single-handed Tasmanian Sawing Championship (dead heat with Bill Youd) at Campbelltown Show (1977)

Something memorable about the inductee (may be several things):

Selected to saw single-handed for Tasmania in World Championships in Ulverstone (1977)

Live Membership – North Western Axemen’s Association Inc

Award of Merit – Australian Axemen’s Association (in recognition of outstanding services to the Association and the sport in general)

My time as an axemen and sawyer

The most satisfying time of my chopping and sawing career was in the early 1970’s when I started making racing saws. At that time, it was impossible to buy small M tooth saws.

Years ago, racing saws were very thin and quite easy to break. I remember at one Carnival; my brother Dudley broke his single-handed saw in several places and my other brother Harry and I both latched onto the piece of broken saw. For years after, whenever I filed a saw, out would come the piece of broken saw as a guide.

Then an idea came to me to make a racing saw out of a place of band saw. Everything went great until I cut the saw into the wood. The first couple of strokes were good, then nothing. All the points had hooked over. It was a great deal of hard work and it was disappointing not to get the result I was aiming for.

I made some enquiries, thinking that an engineering firm may be able to harden steel, but had no luck. Then one day, I was reading my son’s metalwork book from High School and there was an article on how to harden and temper steel. It was a real success and Harry and Royce Berwick followed on with this idea and made many saws using this method.

The success I have gained with saw sharpening, I give some of the credit to Dudley who was the Master of the Art.

It is a privilege to give something back towards the sport in preparing competitors’ saws and to encourage them to continue and promote sawing and support woodchopping into the future.

Franklin, Samuel John

1936 - 1993
QLD

Born at Southport Thursday 14th May 1936

John franklin, eldest son of Sam and Dorrie Franklin, was a member of one of Mudgeeraha’s pioneering families.

He lived and worked at Mudgeeraba all his life, married Merna Spann a schoolteacher, raised a family, Matthew, Amanda, and Christopher and saw them all married.  All three share their father’s interest in competitive horse events as tent pegging, polocrosse, and other equestrian activities.

He attended the Mudgeeraba School and then entered the butchering trade. Although he had retired from that business. John was affectionately known as the local butcher.  Always very involved in community life he was encouraged to nominate for the Albert Shire Council to fulfil his desire to serve the local people. John franklin was a true Australian, an all-around good bloke.  A keen sportsman, he excelled in everything he did, but he did it passionately, eagerly and with no expectations of glory. He gave much more than he received. He epitomised all that was honest and good in local government, arguing without fear or favour on issues in which I believed.  John Franklin was a world champion axeman and inaugural Albert Australia Day Foundation Ironman.  He was a churchman, Rotarian, bush fireman and active leader of almost every sporting and community group in Mudgeerahs district.  And he did everything he did everything well. In 1978, he was one of the first to be awarded the Albert Shire Community Service Award only six have ever been issued.

Albert Shire Council

Cr John Franklin was elected to Council in March 1982, to represent Division 6, covering the areas of Carrara, Worongary, Merrimac, Karridale, Tallai, Mudgeeraba, Reedy Creek, Bonogin, Austinville and Springbrook.

Some of John Franklin’s achievements include:

World Tree felling Champion 1979

Australian Tree felling Champion 1982 and 1985

Inaugural Albert Australia Day Foundation Ironman winner 1981

President, Vice President and Handicapper Queensland Axemen’s Association

Captain Australian Axemen team to Indonesia and Hong Kong 1977

President Mudgeeraba Rotary Club

Member Burleigh Heads Rotary Club

President Mudgeeraba Rotary Club

Member Burleigh Heads Rotary Club

President and Chief Instructor Mudgeeraba Pony Club

Chief Instructor Zone 2, Pony Club Association of Queensland

President and Chief Instructor Mudgeeraba Pony Club

Chief Instructor Zone 2, Pony Club Association of Queensland

President Mudgeeraba Hall Committee

Referee Mudgeeraba Swimming Club

President Mudgeeraba Parents and Citizens Association

President Mudgeeraba Tennis Club

President Mudgeeraba Rugby League Club

Life Member and former President Mudgeeraba Show Society

Member Scouting and guiding Associations

Member State Emergency Service

Member Albert Lancers

Founder Mudgeeraba Progress Association

Warden of the Uniting Church Mudgeeraba

South Coast Representative Tennis player and South Coast Junior Champion

South Coast Representative Rugby League

Fire Warden and First Officer, Mudgeeraba Rural Fire Brigade

Acting Officer – in – charge Auxiliary Fire Brigade

Member 14th Mudgeeraba Light Horse

His Australian Axemen’s jacket and contributed to the Sportsman Hall of Fame on the Gold Coast Queensland February 2002

Killed in freak accident age 56.

 

 

French, Neville

21/09/1926
TAS

Neville was born on 21/09/1926 the same year as Slim Dusty. Neville’s wife Beverly passed away 10 years ago. Together they have 6 children 4 boys and 2 girls: Jane, Peter, Bevan, Dawn, Stuart, and Jamie. They all grew up listening to Slim Dusty.

Neville was inspired to start chopping after participating in a chop at the Wynyard area where he beat all the other axemen. His first chop was at Forrest, Tasmania in 2949. It was the 10-inch mugs event

Neville’s most memorable moment was winning at Sydney Show in 1972 the 15-inch Standing Block Championship in the fastest recorded time. Another special moment for Neville was to be the first ever axeman to win the Standing and Underhand Championship at the Hobart Show. His biggest rivals in woodchopping were Jack O’Toole, Gary Hewitt, Geoff Binns and Ron Sherriff. His favourite event was the 42-inch underhand. His last chop was in 1988 here at Henley on the Mersey in the veteran’s event. Neville won the Mercury Sports Award 3 times, Axeman of the Year 3 times. Amassed a total of 33 wins in 1972, the same year and 1974 he represented Australia in New Zealand.

He was also a great footballer. Neville played in the ruck for Wynyard and one day unbeknown to Neville, Footscray came over to poach him but he lady Neville boarded with told them to go away. She was a diehard Wynyard supporter and did not want to lose him. Being a footballer, he fell to injury with a bad back in the prime of his woodchopping career in 1965.

Neville French lives today in Wynyard and in his day, he was a GREAT AXEMAN.

Fullgrabe, Bob

01/08/1923
SA

Bob was born on 1st of August 1923 and is one of seven children. Bob’s father was a woodchopper and Bob and his three brothers all competed in woodchopping events throughout SA and other parts of Australia. Bob’s brother Lionel has also been inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Bob commenced woodchopping in 1938 at the age of 15 years old and he first competed in the Royal Adelaide Show in 1938 and won the Under 16yrs Underhand and in the next few years the Under 19 underhand and standing block.

Bob competed in woodchopping events in South Australia and other parts of Australia and in 1964 he was the runner up in the Grand Aggregate Trophy at the Royal Melbourne Show. In that year, Bob finished 2nd in 7 events.

Bob has been the South Australian State Champion in both the Underhand and Standing Block although he was recognised as a better Standing Block cutter than Underhand.

The SA State Championship Standing Block was introduced to the Royal Adelaide Show in 1969 and he won this event 8 times including winning the event 7 years in a row and was placed every other year up to 1979.

The SA State Championship Underhand event was introduced to the Royal Adelaide Show in 1960 and Bob won this event twice and was placed 10 times up to 1979.

Bob retired from the sport in 1980 at the age of 57 years.

Bob also contributed to the sport of woodchopping in South Australia and held official positions with the South Australian Axemen’s Association. He was President for 11 years, Vice President for 2 years, Secretary for 3 years and Handicapper for 8 years. He is also a Life Member of the South Australian Axemen’s Association.

Fullgrabe, Lionel

1932 - 2004
SA

Lionel Fullgrabe was born in Stirling, South Australia on 11th of June 1932 and died on the 22nd of September 2004 aged 72 and was one of seven children. His father and uncles competed in woodchopping events as did Lionel’s three brothers. His brother Bob has also been inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Lionel moved around Australia and worked most of his life in the bush as a tree feller and log truck driver. He moved from Adelaide to Tarpeena, South Australia to Warragul, Victoria to Cann River, Victoria, back to Adelaide then to the Northern Territory and Queensland. He passion was the bush and his trucks and unfortunately a trucking accident in 1981 meant he had to retire from the sport at 49 years of age.

Lionel competed in woodchopping and throughout South Australia and Australia. In 1962, he won the Grand Aggregate Trophy at the Royal Melbourne Show. Lionel was a renowned underhand cutter and was also an excellent tree climber. Bill Youd often referred to Lionel as “a blood good little tree climber”.

Lionel has been the SA State Champion in both the Underhand and Standing Block. However, because he travelled around Australia, he was ineligible to compete in the South Australian State Championship for some years. Had he been eligible to compete, it is likely that he would have won the majority of Underhand Championships because he had an edge over his competitors in this event

He did however become the South Australian Champion in the Underhand event 8 years in a row from 1973 to 1979 and he won the South Australian State Championships in the Standing Block in 1977 and placed 4 other times mostly beaten by his brother Bob. They had a fantastic rivalry during the 1970’s with Lionel being the South Australian State Champion in the Underhand and Bob the South Australian State Champion in the Standing Block.

It is unfortunate that Lionel was unable to continue woodchopping after his retirement in 1981 because he was a champion axemen and person.  His memory will live on through the Hall of Fame

Fullgrabe, Mike

04/04/1953
SA

Mike Fullgrabe was born into a Woodchopping Family as a Third Generation Woodchopper. His Mother would always say that he was born with an Axe in his hand. In the family house you would not have found a bedhead, cupboard, wardrobe or any other wooden product without axe marks all over the place.

His Grandfather, Father Bob and Uncle Lionel competed in Woodchopping Events throughout Australia. In fact, Bob and Lionel have both been inducted into the Australian Axemen’s Hall of Fame.

Mike has two sons, Nathan and Justin, who also competed along with his wife Christine in Cross Cut Sawing events. It was really a family sport for the Fullgrabe Family.

Mike started competing at the Royal Adelaide Show at the age of 13. One of his cherished moments was in 1978 when he won the SA Standing Block Championship at the Royal Adelaide Show against his Father and Uncle Lionel.

A particularly proud moment on home soil, was to win the Father and Son woodchop with his son Justin.

Mike has been dedicated to the sport of Woodchopping for most of his life and has made many friends and acquaintances along the way.

Mike’s contribution to the sport, in administrative roles, has been an integral part to the current success of the sport in Australia, including:

 • Secretary of the Australian Axemen’s Association for 14 years from 1999 to 2013

• Promotion of the Australian Axemen’s Hall of Fame

• Management of the AusAxe Super Series 2007-2009

• Took the AusAxe Series to the screens of FOX – this series has not been surpassed

• In 2017 was made AAA Woodchop Ambassador

• SA Axemen’s Association President, Secretary, Handicapper and State representative to the AAA inc

• Since 2019, Mike has also held the position of Councilor with the Royal Adelaide Show Woodchopping Committee

• Mike has been instrumental in keeping the sport of woodchopping alive in South Australia.

CONGRATULATIONS MIKE

Gale, Jim

17/12/1944
WA

Jim was born on December 17, 1944 to Arthur, who was an axeman and Rose Gale of Nannup. Jim’s involvement with woodchopping began at the tender age of 12 when he became his father’s shadow, helping with the collection to training logs and having a hit when his dad was training to emulate his father’s actions.

Jim moved to Bridgetown and began a kicked off career as a timber feller. his passion of the timber game went hand in hand with his love of woodchopping.

His woodchopping career kicked off on October 24, 1964 at the Brunswick Show. From here his achievements rolled in, winning some of the state’s most prestigious events including the 300mm handicap underhand at the historical Fonty’s Pool annual competition in Manjimup. 17 years later he returned to the Brunswick Show and took out the title of his favourite event, the 3000mm standing block championship.

Jim then married Erica and had two daughters Jennifer and Julie Anne. Family life in the Gale household revolved around woodchopping. Today Jim is the proud granddad of seven grandchildren.

Jim’s participation in the sport of woodchopping spanned over 36 years, he retired from competition in 2000.

Although he no longer pulled on the whites, his involvement with Western Australia woodchopping did not stop. He took on numerous roles which involved the organisation and administration of the sport. In 1980 Jim represented the Western Australian Axemen’s League at the formation of the Axemen’s Council of Western Australia. 30 years later he is still a delegate today and has been elected president of the Western Australian Axemen’s League numerous times.

Jim is only the third person to be awarded a life membership to the Australian Axemen’s Association. This honour was bestowed upon him in 1988 to commemorate his outstanding dedication to the sport.

His long association with the Perth Royal Show as a woodchopping coordinator, chief ring steward and handicapper for 17 years lead to another life membership honour.

To add a local flavour and other life membership credits to his bow he was inducted into the Bridgetown Agricultural Society. After 35 years of service to the Bridgetown Local Fire Brigade he was presented with a services medal commemorating his involvement with the community.

Jim’s love for the sport of woodchopping has not waned over the years as he continues to be involved in an administration role for the Western Australian Axemen’s League today.

Gallagher, Milton Edward

01/09/1942
WA

Milton Gallagher was born on 1st of September 1942 in Inglewood Western Australia, the second born of six boys to parents Francis and Lucy Gallagher.

Milton’s father was a forester and the family lived in the forestry settlement at Dwellingup, Western Australia for many years and then moved to another settlement at Wanneroo. His maternal grandfather, William Plunkett always lived with them and he was an axeman who competed until age 80.

With a family history in the sport dating back to 1898, it was only natural that Milton would follow in their footsteps and compete in the sport himself.

The Gallagher family now has 100 years of participation in woodchopping.

As a strapping 6’3½” well-built 16-year-old, his first chop was in 1958 at the Bindoon Show in the “Mugs” chop which was a 10″ underhand. Milton won this event with the grand prize money of 6 pound. His grandfather had paid the nomination entry of 5 pound.

Underhand events continued to be his favourite. He competed continuously for 44 years, before retiring due to health concerns.

At the age of 18, Milton and his brother drove and old Austin A30 ute, top speed of 80km/hr to all the country log chops with their ‘Pop’ and his pipe sitting in the back of the ute. This went on to be a family tradition for many years until brother Stan updated to an X2 Holden so that they could fit brother John in as well and all travel together.

Milton has worked in the timber industry as a faller, log hauler and log inspector. He is now retired.

Milton was the handicapper for the Progressive Axemen’s Association of Western Australia (PAAWA) for 20 years, as well as getting the logs and carting them for competitions. He now holds a life membership with the PAA.

Milton has been married to Cheryl for 47 years and has a son Todd who currently competes and a daughter Kellie. He is the proud ‘Pop’ to four grandchildren.

His passion for the sport continues with the Royal Show Committee, Ring Judge and following son Todd and helping him prepare his axes.

  • Competed from 1958 to 2002
  • Competed for 44 years
  • Competed and Perth Royal Show for 43 years
  • First major win. Gerry Connell U/H Donnybrook 30/03/1964. Major prize money. Paid for new car.
  • Won State 14-inch Tom Plunkett Championship. 1975, 1976 & 1985
  • Won State 13-inch U/H 1978, 1984, 1985 & 1987
  • Won State 12-inch U/H. 1981 & 1983
  • Won the Combination Championship – Pemberton.
  • Made the Australian Title Final 14-inch 1973.
  • Represented Western Australia in the State Team. 1968, 1974 & 1983.
  • Competed around Australia, including Adelaide Show and Tasmanian Christmas Carnivals.
  • PAA Club Champion 3 times. WAAL Club Champion 1 time.
  • PAA Life Member. Currently on the Royal Show committee and Ring Judge.
  • WA Council Delegate from 1980 for approx. 20 years.

Geale, John Francis

1872 - 1959
TAS

John Francis Geale born 9 May 1872 to Matilda and William Geale of Lefroy, Tasmania.

In his younger days John would walk from Lefroy to Kindred at the age of 12 to work with his uncle a Mr Turner who was a road contractor, after learning the trade he became a very prominent contractor himself. He did a lot of government work. Some of the roads he worked on were the Cradle Mountain missing link from Great Lake to Bronte, Butlers Gorge for Hydro, Waddamana, Scottsdale Road, and many others. He was the first person to lay bitumen on the North West Coast this was at Clayton Rivulet near Ulverstone. He also owned farms at Kindred, Wilmot, Barrington, and Daisy Dell.

Aside from his busy working life he was married to May Russell. They had a daughter Bernice Cook. They resided at Kindred. John had a couple of pastimes as well; football and woodchopping.

The standing block was his favourite. His achievements include winning the championship chopping belt of Tasmania at St Leonards in December 1895. This belt has been restored and is on display, possibly the oldest chopping trophy in the world. He won this by cutting through 2-foot logs.

3rd in the 3rd World Title ever held in 1893, also winner of chops at Ulverstone, Sprent, and Barrington.

Graue, Athol “Lofty”

1929 -
TAS

Lofty was born at Wynyard to Alice Maud and Tony Graue. He lived at Wynyard and Devonport and is married to Amy. They have five children: Barry, Robert, Dianne, Kenneth and Sharon.

Lofty worked in the bush as a bushman on Tasmania’s North West Coast. His favourite pastime of all time is Woodchopping. Lofty is an all-round axe man, competing in the Standing Block, Underhand and Sawing.

His achievements include gaining renown as a Butchers Block cutter, winning at all Royal Shows in Australia with various partners.

Lofty has also been an active administrator and organiser in this sport which he loves:

  • Elected to the North West Executive Committee 1967-2009
  • Elected President of the North West Committee 1974-1987
  • Elected Tasmanian President for 10 years
  • Helped organise the 1970 World Centenary of Woodchopping, contracting with Neil Perry to supply the blocks for the 1970 and 1974 World Championships
  • Helped design portable sawing cradles 1970
  • Helped build the North West Woodchopping Headquarters in Penguin 1979
  • Inaugural Committee Member of the Australian Axeman’s Hall of Fame 1992
  • Life Member of the Devonport Show Society organising woodchopping for 57 years
  • Life Member of the Devonport Apex Regatta Association for 45 years

 

He has won many awards in recognition of his contribution to the Sport of Woodchopping:

  • Awarded Axeman of the Year 1975
  • Awarded All-round Axeman 1981
  • Toured America 1985
  • Awarded Life Membership of the NWAA
  • Awarded Life Membership of the Tasmanian Axemen’s Association

 

Lofty was still competing at 82 years of age (2011).

 

Gray, Bill Jnr.

1955 -
VIC

Bill Gray Jnr. of Dixons Creek in the Yarra Valley Victoria, and started his woodchopping career at the age of 15, he won his first woodchop at 17 years of age.

Billy Jnr. (as he is known) has competed throughout Victoria and Australia in his early days.

He had been a Central Victoria Axemen’s Association (CVAA) committee man for 29 years and of that was the Treasurer 26 of those years, and held a tight rein on the money, thanks to him that is why the CVAA is a very successful and financial association. For 12 years as Treasurer he never received any honorary fee, it was all volunteered and as his career as an accountant it made for good bookwork and management.

Billy Jnr. became a life member of the CVAA in 1992, and his father Bill Snr. was also a life member prior to this, they are the only father and son combination to be life members.

Billy Jnr. organised and conducted for many years’ woodchop competitions at Lilydale Show, Marysville, Ringwood Highland Games and Croydon.

Although he was not our top axeman, there were many a time in in Championships he certainly gave them a run for their money and even brought home a sash or two, and also in the Handicap events was a very good competitor and won numerous events throughout his time in woodchopping.

Billy Jnr is still a member of the CVAA and picks up and axe now and again, but time has come to think of retirement, but still enjoys the odd woodchop and social aspect of the sport that he has been involved in over the last 40 years.

His 26 years a treasurer and the time he has given to woodchopping has made him a great ambassador for the sport.

Hansford, Don

07/05/1937
VIC

Outstanding Service to the Sport

Don became interested in woodchopping while attending carnivals with his Father and Uncle and watching them compete. It was just after the 2nd World War and Sports meeting were starting up again. Though both Don’s mentors were good axemen, they didn’t travel far – competing mostly in the Castlemaine, Bendigo and Daylesford area. Despite his interest Don didn’t take up the axe to compete until 1962 at Marong (near Bendigo) on 13th Oct 1962.

He won the open underhand so consequently he was never a novice underhand cutter. It took several years for him to win an open block, always and still being a better underhand cutter. While his home Association is now the Midlands, Axemen’s Association early boundary movements had him joining the CVAA, the Bendigo and Korweinguboora Axemen’s Clubs. In all of these he supported his sport.

Handicapper for five years Bendigo Axemen’s Club and later same job at Korweinguboora. Then on to Midlands Axemen’s Association – again as handicapper for a number of years, then elected as secretary for a 15 year stint. In recognition of his service Don was made a Life Member in 1986 and awarded a mounted Golden Axe in recognition of service and dedication to MAA. It wasn’t just ‘office’ work though – in 2012 he was presented with a watch in appreciation of attending approximately 470 log getting working bees over 47 years.

Don has enjoyed the competition and has made many friends in his years of travelling to carnivals. One of his favourites is the Royal Adelaide Show where one really good year he had two underhand wins and several places. There are a number of points aggregates in Don’s resume – mostly underhands, but Standing Block, Double Handed Sawing and Veteran’s are also included.

Don continues to compete with his two sons and his grandson following him into his sport. He was also recently recognised as the longest supporting competitor in another Association. Don also was a donor to Hall of Fame Building Fund.

Hays, Bruce

11/01/1944
TAS

Bruce was born on the 11th January 1944 in Devonport, Tasmania to Father Frederick and Mother Joyce Hays.  Bruce resided in the North West coast of Tasmania, Willmot as a child and throughout his youth and Ulverstone, Turners Beach and Wesley Vale as an adult.

Bruce was married to Anthea and had three sons Garry, Phillip, and Dean. From approximately 23 to 45 years old he worked as a roof tiler. From 35 years old onwards he also began farming his own property and was subsequently able to gradually reduce his work in roof tiling.

A keen cricketer and footballer as a youth, played badminton and squash as a young man. Currently enjoys woodturning and wood crafts using Tasmanian endemic timbers, he can be found most weekends at the Axeman’s Hall of Fame at his Wood craft stall.

Bruce Hays won his inaugural tree-felling event at the Burnie New Year’s Day Tree in 1973 and again, approximately 30 years later won his first tree at the same event. Bruce won this event on at least 5 occasions. In the 1991-1992 chopping season he won 34 events which included 12 tree-felling events.

In 1992 he self-funded and travelled to New Zealand and competed at the same time and alongside a selected Australian Axemen’s Team; he won the World Championship Tree-felling event, the Australian championship tree and the 12inch standing event, which at that time was the richest standing event in New Zealand.

He is the only North West Tasmanian axemen to win a World Championship tree-felling event.

On a single trip to Victoria he competed in consecutive shows over a three day period and was the winner of the three tree-felling events at each show, he won a further three events during the same period, including the Wangaratta 13inch Standing events, at the time, the richest chopping events in Australia.

Bruce was an active sportsman from a youth onwards, he left Wilmot at 17 to commence an apprenticeship and play football for Ulverstone Football Club, where he accrued 130 senior appearances. At age 22 he gave cricket away (he had been a fast bowler) and turned his attention during the summers to the sport of woodchopping. He was very proud that his sport had its beginnings at Sprent, virtually his own backyard, and enjoyed researching the origins of chopping as a sport and the names of pioneer woodchopping champions.

Bruce won championships in all disciplines of the sport; tree-felling, underhand, standing, single and double-handed sawing. He could be considered a true “All-rounder’ axeman. As well as participating in all disciplines, he also perfected the art (or science) of grinding axes. A great many axemen from around Australia were keen to have an axe ground by Bruce in their axe-box and many a championship event was won with the competitor utilising a ‘Bruce Special’.

From his earliest involvement with wood chopping Bruce assisted with the organisation and preparation of chopping events and for the next 35 years was a member of the North West Axemen’s Association (NWAA) Committee.

Bruce was the driving force behind the Turners Beach chopping carnival for 10 years. The carnival grew to be the largest single day carnival in Tasmania. One particular year, when the event had outgrown its “One Day “status and had expanded into a two-day carnival; Bruce cut and trimmed 800 logs single handed for the show to go ahead. Bruce was especially proud that monies raised from Turners Beach chopping carnivals benefited the greater community as all proceeds were donated to the Turners Beach Football and Cricket Clubs, assisting with the eventual construction of new clubrooms at that venue.

In 1992/93 Bruce was awarded the NWAA “Axeman of the year “and later in 1993 was made a Life-Member of the NWAA for his services to wood chopping.

Head, Kerry

1962 -
QLD
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
375mm Single Handed Sawing Championship (Sydney Royal Easter Show)
1997, 1998, 2003
300mm Underhand Championship (Kingaroy Show)
1990
Photos courtesy of Redcliffe Herald & Head First Photography
Photos courtesy of Redcliffe Herald & Head First Photography

Kerry’s woodchopping career commenced in 1983 at the age of 21 when following the death of his uncle Greg Head, his grandfather, Len Head encouraged him to continue the families’ involvement in the sport. His commitment was evident as he progressed from a novice to a backmarker axeman in just over 12 months.

Kerry is a 3rd generation woodchopper whose love for the sport has been passed onto his future generations and takes pride in watching his son Jamie and grandsons Archie and Darcy compete.

Kerry represented Queensland and Australia winning multiple titles, notably, winning the QLD Champion of Champions 11 times and the Australian Champion of Champions twice. Kerry’s career highlights include winning 3 world titles in the single-handed sawing at the Sydney Royal Easter Show and in 1990, being selected with his father Kel Head in the Australian team as the double handed sawing partnership, Australia won this three-race series against the Kiwi’s 2 races to 1. Kerry continued to represented Australia from 1990 to 2010.

Kerry continues to give back to the sport of woodchopping through his commitment to various local shows, including being the Chief ring steward at the Ekka and over 40 years dedicated to the Redcliffe show in the running of the woodchopping section with his father Kel, son Jamie and nephew Thomas. Kerry is the current manager of the Australian Axemen’s Men’s Team and is proud to have the opportunity to mentor and support the team.

Kerry’s commitment to the sport of woodchopping includes:

  • Member of the QAA management committee – 30 years
  • Represented Queensland – Men’s Team
  • Represented Australia – Men’s Team
  • Manager of Australian Men’s Team since 2013
  • Had an extensive Timbersports career in the USA in the early 2000s
Photos courtesy of Redcliffe Herald & Head First Photography
Photos courtesy of Redcliffe Herald & Head First Photography

Hewitt, Kerry

1946 -
QLD

Born 1946 – resided his first 20 years at Mt Mee.

He now resides on his acreage in Wamuran Queensland.

Kerry began chopping in the boy’s chops in 1960 following in his father and grandfathers’ footsteps.

He was a schoolteacher from 1966- 1980.

Kept fit with owning a milk run from 1980-1984

He was also a Banana Grower 1984- 1996.

Fern and Foliage Harvester 1996-

His first Tree Championship win was in 1981 at Brunswick Heads.

First of many Queensland Titles – 1981

Australian 13” Tree Championships 1983, 84, 85 and 89.

He won the World Tree Championship at the Royal Sydney Show- 1986.

Handicapper at Brunswick Heads 2000-01.

Block Steward at the Brisbane Exhibition (RNA) 2000- 01

Hillcoat, Phil

1936 - 2020
QLD

Phil commenced woodchopping in 1964 at age 28. He cut second in nine different championships before winning the 14-inch Underhand Title at the Townsville Show in 1966. He followed this with wins in the 13-inch Standing Block Championship at Lawnton Show and then the 12-inch Standing Block Championship at the Brisbane Exhibition that year.

1970 was a golden year for Phil:

  • He was vice captain of the Queensland team that went to Tasmania for the centenary of woodchopping
  • Won the Hytest trophy for the most successful axeman at Sydney Show
  • Chosen to be one of three axemen to join the Australian Contingent of Performers to go to Japan to appear at the Expo in Osaka
  • Won the World 12-inch Standing Block Championship at Brisbane Exhibition
  • Travelled to Brisbane to chop at the citizens welcome for the Queen and Prince Phillip

He won the 15-inch Standing Block Championship at Brisbane Exhibition in 1973. He followed this with wins in the same event at Adelaide Show in September and Perth Show in October of ’73.

In 1978 he won the inaugural trophy for the Queensland Champion of the Year.

Over overseas trips included:

  • 1967 Fiji appearing at Suva Show
  • 1972 Kenya in a team of three to appear with a team of three caber tossers from Scotland and Nairobi
  • 1981 Papua New Guinea appearing at Port Moresby Show
  • 1983 Jakarta for the Highland Games
  • 1984 Jakarta once again

In these earlier years you had to be an all-round axeman who could cut trees, underhand and standing blocks.

Phil was a member of a private Veterans Team of six who went to New Zealand in 1977. they competed against a New Zealand team and this led to the formation of an official Australian and New Zealand Veterans Team who now compete against each other annually.

While in New Zealand, Phil competed at the Masters Games and won a gold medal in the Standing Block at Wanganui.

Over the years, Phil has won many District, State, and several Australian Championships. He won the highest handicapped tree feller in Queensland at 132 seconds behind he did not manage to win a tree felling championship at the Royal Show. he cut second in Brisbane twice and at Adelaide as well as places in Sydney Show but could not get a win.

Phil was a member of the committee of the QAA for 25 years.

When the Australian Axemen’s Council was formed, he was an original member and attended meetings in Sydney and Adelaide for many years.

He is a life member of the QAA and in 1995 was the second person to be awarded a life membership of the Australian Axemen’s Association.

 

 

Hooper, Keith

1930 - 1988
QLD

Keith was an active sportsman all his life participating in Australian Rules Football, swimming and woodchopping.

Keith competed in his first woodchopping event of the age of 14 in 1944 in Queensland. This was the start of woodchopping family dynasty spanning three generations that is still active in 2015.

He was elected to the committee of the Queensland Axeman’s Association (QAA) in 1950 and went on to hold the office of Secretary/Treasurer, Vice President and President.

Keith was the serving Secretary/Treasurer at the time of his passing in 1988. Keith was awarded life membership of the QAA in 1980 for his services to woodchopping.

A very special event and recognition – Keith competed in a team of axemen selected to put on a demonstration for Queen Elizabeth 2nd and His Royal Highness, Prince Philip during their visits to Brisbane in 1956 and 1963.

He was awarded a medal in recognition of his services rendered to woodchopping by the Queen in 1963.

Keith was instrumental in ensuring woodchopping was showcased to the world during the 1988 Brisbane Expo. The woodchopping championship series was a wonderful success and was watched by thousands of people from all over the world.

During the 1980s Keith was the author of a regular article published in the Queensland Timber Magazine which, again, ensured that woodchopping was promoted to the wider community.

Keith was highly competitive throughout his woodchopping career with numerous wins. He was regarded as a particularly fierce competitor with his partner in the butchers block event 30 inches in diameter, the event lasted many minutes until completed – Keith and his partner would often be the last man chopping and still winning the event.

Horton, Lionel William

1921 - 1990
TAS

Lionel moved to Queenstown in 1945 to commence working at Mount Lyell Copper Mines and resided there for the next 30 years.

Lionel joined the Queenstown Axemen’s club in 1952, remaining actively involved with competition and administrative duties until leaving Queenstown in 175. Also heavily involved with the Western Tasmanian Axemen’s Association.

Lionel chopped mainly in the 10- and 12-inch standing events, scoring several wins resulting with a collection of cups as prizes. In 1970, in Perth, Western Australia, Lionel surprised himself by winning an event and being presented with a cup.

Lionel was an enthusiastic and hard-working committee member with the administration area for the Queenstown and Western Tasmanian carnivals, spending many hours assisting with the preparation and trimming of the blocks and the setting up of arenas for competition.

For many years Lionel was the “Starter” for the Queenstown and Western Tasmanian events gaining an excellent reputation with his ability to organise and ensure that professionalism was maintained in the chopping arena.

Lionel was enthusiastic with his pro-activeness regarding the training of younger choppers, instilling them in the need for good sportsmanship behaviour.

Lionel had excellent skill regarding sharpening axes. This resulted with many Tasmanian Axemen, competing throughout Tasmania and the mainland sending their axes to Queenstown for him to sharpen and prepare.

Lionel was conscientious and proud axeman, working tirelessly to ensure that Queenstown and West Coast Axemen were included in major Tasmanian events, which resulted during the “World Centenary of Competitive Chopping” held in Tasmania, 1st – 10th January 1970, with one of the carnivals being held in Queenstown on Sunday 4th January 1970, officially opened by the Hon Eric Reece, Premier and Ron Davis MHR.

Lionel was President of the Queenstown Branch for many years, being presented with a “Life Membership Certificate” and badges.

The highlight of Lionel’s career was being presented with “The Award of Merit Certificate” from the Australian Axemen’s Association.

Lionel continued to follow many carnivals in Tasmania, maintaining a keen interest in the Axemen’s achievements and activities and always willing to lend a hand until his death.

A Memorial Chop sponsored by Steve By Spray Painting, is held each year during the Easter Show.

Compiled and submitted by his daughter, Colleen Horton, Launceston. 

Jackson, Ken

18/12/1934
QLD

Born- Wooloowin – Brisbane – 18th December 1934.

He is the son of John and Mary Joyce Jackson.

His wife Yvonne and children Barbra, Peter, and Sandra.

He resided in the areas Wamuran, Richlands, and Mt Walker.

Ken was a Forestry Worker, Timber Contractor and Farmer.

Ken commenced woodchopping in 1958.

Ken Jacksons was a hard and honest axeman that has passed his knowledge of the sport and timber on too many newcomers into the sport.

He travelled the world to take the sport to new horizons. In Spain he made lifelong friends and assisted in introducing the Australian Racing Axe to the Basque Axeman.

he won the 14” World Title Standing Block – Coffs Harbour – 1964 the timber was Blackbutt.

he won the first ever 15” Single Handed Sawing Championship at the Royal Queensland Show (Ekka).

in 1966 while travelling around England performing woodchopping demonstrations Ken performed a Tree felling demonstration for Queen Elizabeth at the Royal Bathe and West Show.

He travelled to South Africa, New Britain, Fiji, and Spain with the sport of woodchopping.

Ken was a member of the first ever Australian woodchopping team to defeat Basque Axeman in a relay race in 1976. The team cut 9 blocks each and won in a time of 59 minutes 32 seconds.

Claiming the 10” Standing Block record which Vic Summers held for 17 years at 21 seconds.

Ken Jackson cut the 10” standing block in 17 seconds. He organised axeman to perform woodchopping on Television Sports Programme to promote the sport.

Upon retirement from woodchopping, Ken took up wood turning and carving.

Much of his woodturning is currently on display in the Federal and State Parliament Houses and Foreign consulates around the world. His wood carvings have been used in Advertisements: Goanna Oil.

Johnson, Samuel

1882 - 1957
TAS

Samuel Johnson was born on the 1st May 1882 at Wynyard. Little is known about his parents, he had one son of his Charles Max. Samuel resided in a few places, Kindred and Wilmot in Tasmania and Bisborne in New Zealand. Sam was a bush worker and farmer here and in New Zealand. His favourite pastime was trout fishing.

Samuel’s favourite disciplines were both standing and underhand blocks.

Many Kiwis retained special memories of Sam. One of these was David Smith of Gisborne who later became his brother-in-law. To quote David:

I must have been about 8 years old when one day Sam asked me if I would like to go with him to the chops, I said yes so away we went. When we arrived, he found me a good seat in the stand then went to the chopping ring. Later he came back and brought me some refreshments, showed me where the toilets were then returned to the ring. I was able to watch it all. It was one of his good days, he won everything.

…

Achievements:

  • 1st 6 feet Standing Block, Nietta, Tasmania 1900 in 3 minutes, 56 seconds at 18 years of age.
  • 1st 2-foot Standing World Championship, Eltham, New Zealand in 1912.
  • Many wins and several gold medals, nearly all in New Zealand, 2nd in 2 events at the Royal Sydney Show after Charlie Miley.

Jordan, Trevor Raymond

1926 - 2007
TAS

Playing football in Trevor’s early teen years with home team Meander was his first sport. After receiving an axe from his father, he commenced woodchopping in 1943 at the age of 17. Trevor combined both sports with great success, until the call of the army came in 1945, not to return until 1947.

Trevor seemed to start where he left off once returning to both football and woodchopping, winning his fair share of standing and underhand events. Claiming every 12-inch block on the North West Coast circuit bar one, winning the prestigious Henley Foot in 1950 the same year he was married. Trevor also toured New Zealand with success winning several chops.

A shoulder injury from football ended Trevor’s competitive days but in 1968 found him in the starter box where he became known as “The voice of woodchopping”. With the ability to run events, commentate and keep the public well informed of what was happening in the woodchop arena. Trevor made a point of firstly knowing each competitor so as to pass on this information through his public address. This included visitors from overseas and interstate axemen. Trevor left the starter’s box after the 1970 World Series.

Trevor moved his family to Launceston in 1976, where he was lured back into the starters box by the Northern Division in 1986. Once again Trevor began like he had not missed a single season until 1993 when for family reasons he retired this time for good. Trevor remained in contact and his interest in woodchopping was still there until he passes away in 2007.

A starter and commentator regarded as one of the very best: The voice of woodchopping.

Kirk, Ken

19/11/1946
NSW

Kenneth Ian Ross Kirk was born in Lithgow 19/11/1946 and grew up living in Mt. Wilson. He is the youngest of three, elder sisters Jill and Robyn. He has grown up with wood chopping all his life due to his father Tom Kirk being one of the best World Champion Axemen in history. Ken started chopping when he was 10 years old.

Ken is married to Margaret and have3 sons Steven, Troy, and Andrew, who all had many successful years competing but only Steven and his 2 sons Mitch and Tommy still compete today.

Ken has had a very successful career in the sport winning many championships in all disciplines; some of his achievements are listed below:

  • 13’’ Underhand Australian Championship Newcastle show 1971.
  • Many state titles both Underhand and standing block, and sawing events and numerous local championships.
  • Double handed sawing Australian and state titles with Mick Beckett, and placed 3rd and 4th in the world title double sawing at Sydney show with Gary Smith and son Steven Kirk.
  • Represented the New South Wales team at the Sydney Royal Show on many occasions and the last time in Christchurch show NZ.
  • Won the big 13’’ $5000 Standing block hcp at Wangaratta Velodrome.
  • Cut the Underhand in the big medley relay at the old Sydney show where their team set the record which still stands today and is listed in the records in the Easter show programme.

 

Ken’s involvement in woodchopping also included being Vice President and President of the NSW Axemen’s Association, also the Secretary and Handicapper for the Central Coast Axemen’s Association for over 12 years.

After over 53 years of involvement in the great sport of Wood chopping, he stopped competing due to ill health at the age of 63, but still enjoys hearing the results of the current competitions.

Lovell, Greg

1952 - 1997
TAS

Married at age 18 to wife Julie. 1 son Andy, 3 daughters Tammy, Leanne, and Melissa.

Greg started woodchopping at the age of 15 at Port Arthur. His first victory, the 10-inch underhand novice. Greg competed for 27 years. IN 1977 Greg was a member of a 3-man team that competed in San Sebastian in Spain. Marathon Chopping.

Greg was the first man to win all 4 Championships at the Sydney Royal Easter Show in 1982. That same year Greg broke the record in the 15-inch standing block which he held for 13 years.

Greg was a regular member of both the Australian and Tasmanian Teams.

Summary:

  • 17 World Championships
  • 45 Australian Championships
  • 210 Tasmanian Championships

Greg was tragically killed as a result of a tree falling accident at the age of 45.

Lovell, William

1932 - 2014
TAS

Family of 8 boys, 5 girls. Six of Bill’s boys competed competitively at one time. On leaving school he sought a position working in the bush, this was on Bill’s terms, as the deal was to get a Kelly axe this was handed to him in due course and so begun his first job.
He was detailed to cut through a 5 foot blue gum.
Bill maintains that this was where he really learned to chop underhand the right way and it was good training.
He started competitively in the early 1950,s His favourite venue was Bushy Park Show and Port Arthur.
Bill explains that it was not always possible to follow every carnival in those days, as there were children to look after.

Bill’s first significant win was at Huon Apple Festival, winning the 12-inch underhand cutting time of 20 seconds and cutting second in the 12-inch standing log.

Another one of Bill’s memorable moments was at Richmond where he took out the 15 inch underhand in the time of 51 seconds from a very strong field; the weather on the day was around 100 deg.
Bill’s most memorable feat was winning the golden year’s event at Dover for three consecutive years as this was a perpetual trophy. Another one of his achievements was cutting fifth in the Tasmanian Thousand at Geeveston in 1976 and also at Zeehan in 1980. In all, Bill competed for 51 years and still has a strong interest, as he still has sons and grandsons competing competitively.

 

 

Maine, Charles Les

14/06/1930
TAS

Les was born on 14th June 1930 at Zeehan, to Henry Charles and Gladys Maine. Les married Betty and have 6 children, Barry, Dianne, Wayne, Henry, Timothy, and David. Les resided at Zeehan, Kindred and Ulverstone.

Les worked as a Miner, Bushman and Bulldozer contractor. Les enjoyed playing football, indoor bowls, golf and woodchopping.

Les favoured the foot underhand as his favourite discipline. Having won over 100 championships and many West Coast Standing Block Championships. His greatest achievements include winning the foot underhand at the Royal Melbourne Show in front of the Queen and being selected in the winning Tasmanian Team Vs the Rest of the World 1970/

Les dedicated many years to the North Western Division as a committee member, block getter and ring steward.

Marshall, James Ruben

1870 - 1949
TAS
Jim is pictured here with his hand on Tom Petit’s shoulder

Born at Deloraine on the 1oth November 1870 to John Marshall and Eliza Marshall Nee Carling.

Jim married and had 10 children, worked as a farmer and his favourite discipline was the standing block.

Jim Marshall of Sprent was fondly known and respectfully known among the Woodchopping fraternity as the ‘Lightening Axeman’. He was about 6ft 1in in height and weighed over 14 stone. His statue was superbly proportioned, and he combined artistry in his work with terrific power and speed. He is described as a competent and shrewd axeman with an inquiring mind.

He was first to experiment with different types and weights of axes and applies them to various native timbers in order to find the best axe for the task. He also tried various sharpening techniques and was the first Tasmanian to perfect the art of grinding axes.

Achievements

  • 1st World 30-inch Standing – 6 minutes 3¾ seconds
  • 1st World 30-inch Standing – 4 minutes 45¼ seconds

In 1892 and 1893 respectfully at Latrobe, both events were championships.

In a handicap in 1902 Jim competed against a chopper named Bingham, who beat Jim by 10 seconds in the heat, semi and final. Bingham had a 75 second start in all events.

Jim Marshall’s chopping career ended when he broke down in the thighs and could not continue training. He is training several great axemen, including Tom Petit of NSW who went on to win Championships and became known as the only axeman to hold World Chopping and Sawing Championships at the same time (1900, 1902, 1905).

Jim is pictured here with his hand on Tom Petit’s shoulder.

James Marshall had on display the largest chips from a chopping block at museum in London. He is the Tasmanian Champion and his own country fellers of trees tremble at his doughty deeds.

Jim is pictured here with his hand on Tom Petit’s shoulder

McCarthy, Manny

1902 - 1994
NSW

Manny has an illustrious and enviable record in woodchopping events. He dominated at the Sydney Royal for many years with his first cut at the Show in 1921 when he was 19- he came 2nd in the Championship. His woodchopping days began on the NSW mid-north coast where he worked as a young man cutting railway sleepers.

In 1924 he moved to Sydney where he worked for many years chopping baker’s wood for the fuel ovens of the dozens of bakeries in the metropolitan area – he chopped 2 ton a day at one pound per ton. Manny’s records include twelve wins in World & Commonwealth championships at the Sydney Royal between 1924 & 1966 & seventeen 2nd or 3rd places in these events. These championships were over all disciplines.

He was also successful in 2 Man events, his partners including sons Jim & Jack, Leo Appo & Norm Baxter.

He cut for many years in NSW team at Sydney Royal &, often, for a team win.

In 1965 he won the Veteran’s Underhand- also at Sydney.

He had many successes in championships and handicap events at country and interstate shows. He still holds the record for an 18-inch Underhand cut at Dandenong Show in Victoria – an impressive 52.4 seconds.

Manny was particularly proud of the fact that his sons Jack and Jim often competed alongside him and sometimes partnered him in events.

 

Meyer, Neville William

11/12/1942
VIC

Outstanding Service to the Sport

Neville has had a long career in woodchopping. That career has included a lot of chopping, which he has enjoyed, and a great deal of hard work and dedication in doing the hard work behind the scenes to support his fellow competitors, his sport, and his Association. Represented Australia in Jakarta, twice in New Zealand.

Nev has won 12 C.V.A. An Aggregate Trophies, 2 Grand Aggregate Trophies, and many trophies and sashes from all around Victoria.

Australia Axeman’s Association presented him with The Award of Merit 1984.

Presented with a brass Nivek axe. Appreciation hard work and dedication as President of C.V.A.A.

2007 President’s Award

  1. Award for over 40 years member C.V.A.A.

Nev’s brother Geoff had organised the logs for all C.V.A.A. woodchops, after Geoff had finished, Nev supplying the logs himself, many times having great difficulty getting the logs and often in all kinds of weather. 2010 son Bradley and his sons took on the job. He has been involved with the committee side of the C.V.A.A. for over 50 years & still is.

Munday, Cathy

10/05/1968

In 2003 Cathy was appointed Captain of the first Australian Ladies Woodchopping Team and remained in the team competing in Australia and New Zealand until she resigned in 2009 for personal commitments, Cathy has won and been placed in many other local and interstate championship and handicap woodchop/sawing events during her career.  She remains a true sporting legend and a pioneering inspiration to all other women involved or interested in the sport of woodchopping.

She started woodchopping at the age of 14 and completed in local events along with her family as members of the Southeast Axemen’s Association.  In 1984 she blazed a trail in the sport as the first women to compete at the Royal Melbourne Show. Her entry was initially rejected based on gender.  After strong objection from her family based on discrimination issues her entry was accepted and she went on to compete successfully at other Royal Shows.

Cathy has many prestigious wins to her name dominating the Jack & Jill Sawing Championship at Sydney Royal for many years.  She also has wins in Double Handed Sawing she has recorded wins in women’s championship & handicap events.

Munday, Henry James

1925 - 2011
TAS

Henry James Munday was born on the 8th of February 1925, into a traditional pioneering timber family. His father Jack was a competitive Axemen and worked in the timber industry all his life. Henry followed in his father’s footsteps earning the skills of axe and saw sharpening as well as inheriting the fundamentals associated with the competitive sport of woodchopping.

He commenced woodchopping as a competitor at the early age of 15 at Wilmot on the North West Coast in 1939. Since then he has dedicated much of his time to the sport over a period spanning 7 decades.

During that period, he has competed at carnivals in the North Western Tasmanian Axemen’s Association and throughout the state experiences success in all disciplines of the sport.

Tree-felling was possibly his greatest love, learning the finite skill from the famous pioneer of tree-felling competition, the late Henry Smith. He experienced success in the field of the sport in almost every state of Australia, but his most satisfying wins were the 5 victories at the time-honoured Burnie New Year’s Day Carnival. he also cherishes his victory in the Henley Foot in 1985.

Henry travelled the mainland woodchopping circuit winning events at every Royal Show from 1960 to present day.

One of Henrys most lasting memories of the sport is the 1979 Australian Touring Axemen’s Team, of which he was a member performing exhibitions at Royal Shows in England and Wales as well as performances in Germany.

Henry spent much of his time perfecting the art of axe preparation and many of his axes have been used with success by several the world’s top axemen.

Henry who turns 85 in February this year continues his great interest in the sport and attends most local carnivals and many interstates Royal Shows. His axe and saw preparation and woodchopping skills have been the trademark of a long and dedicated association with Australian Woodchopping.

Oldham, Patrick and Shirley

TAS

Patrick and Shirley have been involved with the North Eastern Axemen’s Association Inc as office bearers, competitors, and organisers for many years.

Patrick started his term as secretary in 1975 which lasted for 26 years finishing in 2001. He also held other positions in that period. State president of the Tasmanian Axemen’s Association for 4 years.

He also took over the job as starter in 1992 and still holds the position in the 2011 season. Patrick also chopped and was a great competitor reaching the final of the Tasmanian Thousand three times and was best placed fifth.

Shirley held the position as Nomination Stewardess from 1982 to 2001 (19 years). During this time, she also organised the Easter Monday Chopping Carnival and Annual Dinner Trophy nights and assisted Patrick with his roles within the Association.

Quanchi, Val

1930 - 2008
VIC

My interest in Woodchopping started about 1969 at the annual Police Picnic when a work mate walked past me with an axe in his hand. From that day and with some coaching he entered me in the Police Chops at the Royal Melbourne Show. Ever since I have been a captive to competition woodchopping. I guess not only was it a very personal desire to master the sport, if that is possible, but also, I was amongst a group of men who were dedicated to their sport.

Not long after this, around 1972, the Woodchopping Chairman Mr John Gardiner, asked if I would be a Judge at the Royal Show Chops that I accepted with great pleasure. Starting off in the Ring was a great experience and where I met axemen from all over Australia and New Zealand. Being born with the “gift of the gab”, not only did I learn the sport but made many life-long friends. Sadly, over the years many have moved on and with them went their experiences in the area and the history of our great Australian sport. In the Judges box I have worked with many dedicated Councillors and Judges who have given freely many hundreds of hours of their time to make the sort the success it is.

Over the years I have seen many changes at the Show and possibly the best has been the introduction of Video judging and the formation of the Disputes Committee, the latter in which disputes are assessed by their fellow competitors. For myself, the culmination and success of the 1985 Royal Show International Woodchopping Festival, where we had forty overseas axemen attending, was a great credit to all the active participants, the Woodchop Committee, Judges and Stewards. In addition, was the assistance given by the Show Society when I organised two Axemen’s Tours to the United Kingdom. To be able to take sixteen men and their wives, to see the reception by the English to these wonderful sportsmen, was a truly remarkable and rewarding experience.

I personally believe that comradeship in the arena whether win, lose or draw is unique and as such should make the Australian Axemen truly proud of themselves and their sport.

In 1980 I was awarded the Royal Show President’s Gold medal for services to the Show and our sport. For me this was an honour indeed. Again, this year to be made an Honorary Life member of the Royal Agricultural Society is indeed something my family and myself are exceedingly proud of. Health holding good, I hope I may be amongst you for many years to follow.

Val Quanchi 
Deputy Chief Steward
Woodchop Section
Royal Melbourne Show

Val Quanchi joined the Victorian Police Force in January 1950. Retired Chief Inspector Jan 1987. First started chopping at the 1968 Annual Police Picnic and was in second place in the Senior Constables event. Won first two chops at Police Championships at Royal Melbourne Show 1968 and then entered open competitions. Val won many novice events over the next 4 years and in 1972 won his first open event at Gembrook. 1976 Val was Reserve Champion in the 350mm Underhand Championship Australasian Police Forces Championship defeating current champion Jack O’Toole.

Became interested in the administrative side of the sport and over the following years served often in dual positions as:

  • Secretary – Victoria Police Axemen’s Club 15 years
  • Secretary – Central Victoria Axemen’s Association 10 years
  • Secretary – Victoria Axemen’s Council 10 years
  • 5th Australasian Mater Games – Committee member – Woodchop section

In 1972 invited by the Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria to be a judge at their annual woodchop competitions and since holding the position of Deputy Chief Steward for many years. In all 37 years services to the Society. 1992 R.A.S. Presidents Gold Trophy. 1989 Life Member Central Victoria Axemen’s Association. 1981 invited and attended the Jakarta Highland Games, Indonesia as manager of an Australian Axemen’s Team. 1982 initiated an international woodchop competition culminating in the International Timber Festival at the 1984 Royal Show. Realising the potential of the sport as a usual and truly Australian sport at Val’s own expense in 1979 took and Australian team to the United Kingdom and Germany. Highlights of this tour was performing 4 days in the main Grand Ring of the Royal Show of England. 9 years later in 1988 was invited to return. Val believed in affording the opportunity to ordinary axemen, who Val personally selected to travel overseas and reward them for their personal contributions to the sport and attributes of sportsmen and ambassadors. Resulting in the attendance of overseas axemen to Australia.

1983 Val had a triple heart by-pass. Again in 1989 a quadruple by-pass followed again by two further operations for by-passes and aorta replacement. Throughout this period continuing to woodchop and remain fit and healthy.

Val training many young police axemen at his home and spent any weekends in the bush cutting down trees and trimming chopping logs. He is a keen collector of old axes and crosscut saws for preservation of these historical items of which are a part of our past timber industry and sport. he is also a collector of newspaper reports, items, articles on the sport and anything related to preservation of this sport for future generations. Sadly, Val dies on Friday 17th October 2008, one month after his nomination into the Australian Axemen’s Hall of Fame.

Note: Val Qaunchi joins Mr Ron Costin as an Honorary Life Member – Ron is approaching his 45th consecutive show. 

 

Quigg, George

12/08/1942
NSW
Started Woodchopping Huskisson 2nd Novice
1961
First Handicap win Underhand Kiama Show
1962
Won Standing Block Championship Nowra Show
1967
Won Underhand Championship N.S.W Title Moss Vale
1972
Captained Australian Side to Defeat New Zealand at Sydney Royal Show. - Two Australian Championships 325mm Standing Block and 250mm Combination at Perth Show. Won Championship and H’cap Point Score
1974
Won Champion of Champions, series Brunswick Heads. Reserve Champion in 375mm Standing Block Sydney Royal. Standing Block 15” Championship at Sussex Inlet
1976
Won first Treefelling Championship at Nowra Show
1977
Won 325mm Standing Championship at Sydney Royal Show. Reserve Champion 375mm Standing Block
1978
Won 375mm Underhand Championship at Canberra Show. Won Treefelling Championship New Zealand and Canberra Show
1979
Won 325mm Treefelling Championship at Sydney Royal Show. Won 375mm Underhand Australian Championship at Sutton Forest School Centenary
1980
Won 325mm Treefelling Championship at Sydney Royal Show. Won Treefelling Championship at Perth Show. A Member of the Australian Team touring New Zealand
1981
Tour of America won 2 Board Tree Championship
1983
Won 325mm Treefelling Championship at Sydney Royal Show. Won Veterans 2 Board Treefelling 7 times Sydney Royal Show
1985 & 1986
Won 325mm Standing Block Championship in Wales. Won First Division Butchers Block 10 Years running at Sydney Royal Show
2009

George followed on the family tradition of farming and also worked as a tree lopper and timber cutter, supplying timber for fencing/shed and mine timber and in later years firewood. So when he commenced woodchopping in 1961 he was well experienced with an axe and took 2nd place in his first Novice cut.

George’s success grew from there with many notable achievements, some of which are listed below. While George still competes and has enjoyed his sport for over 50 years he has also given back to his sport. He enjoys training young axemen, passing on the skills gathered over many years.

George is a life member of his Association, the South Coast and Tablelands Axemen’s Association (NSW) and still regularly competes. He has captained the Australian and NSW Veterans Teams for many years.

Reeves, Tom

1860 - 1938
TAS

To name Tom Reeves signifies the axemen who won the First World woodchopping competition, the 30-inch standing log. in 6 minutes and 22 seconds at Latrobe, Tasmania in 1891.

Published public comments at the time of his death:

“There may have been more brilliant and faster choppers that Tom Reeves, but a bigger hearted all-round athlete never lived”

“Tom Reeves was as honest as the sun and kind-hearted. He was one of nature’s gentlemen, and his relatives have the sympathy of all old timers.”

Born at Devonport, Tasmania the son of Mr and Mrs George Reeves, he was frequently heard to speak of the wallabies and kangaroos that ere to be found where the city of Devonport is now situated. He married a Miss Helen Lethborg and they took up farming at Barrington where family descendants still farm. They had 11 children, six sons and five daughters. Tom was noted for his ability to work long hours and being a man of exceptional strength. There was not metalled road where he first when to Barrington, and he had to cart supplies and produce over rough tracks and was known as one of the best teamsters on the roads.

Always a keen sportsman, it is not surprising to note that after attending to his farm chores, he would walk or ride to Latrobe, Devonport, Ulverstone of further afield to compete in sports carnivals. At these meetings he would often participate in a long distance run and then a couple of hours later enter the chopping ring to compete. One such occasion within three or four hours, he won the Silver Championship Belt for the 6-foot girth chop, the mile and half-mile foot race all from or near scratch.

Most notable sport of woodchopping achievements:

  • 1891 2 ft. Standing Block World Championship – Latrobe, Tasmania
  • 1895 2 ft. Standing Block World Championship – Ulverstone, Tasmania

Reynolds, Robert (Bob) George

23/06/1937
WA

Robert (Bob) George Reynolds was born on June 23, 1937 to parents Norma and George Reynolds in Manjimup.

It all began for Bob in 1956 at the age of 19 when he won his first event in woodchopping, the 12 inches underhand at the Donnelly River Mill. Following his success, Bob returned the following year and won the same title making him a back-to-back champion.

Bob married Shirley and has three children, Kylie, Brett, and Nicole. They Reynolds name will continue throughout the next generation of woodchopping with Brett and his own four sons following their dad and granddad’s footsteps.

Bob worked as a forestry worker which enabled him to inspect timber every day. He soon found that his favourite event was the physically taxing tree-felling event.

During his 32 years of woodchopping Bob was a dominant and versatile axeman. He was crowned Tree-Felling Champion of the Year for 13 years and runner up for 7 years. During his woodchopping career Bob was also names Axeman of the Year for two years, runner up for three years and runner up club champion.

Bob was instrumental in establishment of the local clubs’ rooms for the Progressive Axemen’s Association. After tirelessly lobbying the local Shire Council to acquire the land he then raised the money for the building which was opened on June 20th, 1993.

He was president of the PAA for 26 years and officiating handicapper for 10 years.

In 1987 Bob was awarded Life Membership to the PAA honouring the tireless years of service.

He was crowned 2008 Veteran of the Year and still competes today while also carrying out administrative duties for the PAA.

Although he continues to compete today, Bob also enjoys fishing, gardening, and coaching his grandsons on how to wield and axe and cut the perfect board hole.

Richards, Colin Denis “Sandy”

1930 -
TAS

Colin Richards was born at St Helens, North East Tasmania on the 12th July 1930. His father was George Richards and his mother were Fanny Fitzgerald.

Colin had 11 brothers and sisters. He learnt the way of a bullocky from his late father, George, who worked teams around the North East during the late 1800’s.

Colin Richards is married to Margaret and they have 6 girls, Leanne, Jenny, Roslyn, Tania, Jayne, and Mandy.

Sandy, as he is better known as, worked as a farmer, Bush contractor and Sawmiller. His favourite pastime’s included Badminton, woodchopping and Bullock Driving. Up until 2004, along with his brother Rusty, they worked bullock teams around the North East of Tasmania selectively harvesting Hydro Poles.

Sandy was an Axeman for over 60 years from 1950 to 2002. During his time competing sandy was also the North East handicapper from 1964 to 2002, a true administrator to our sport dedicating 38 years to his position as handicapper.

Richards, Peter Campbell

27/11/1931
TAS

Peter was born on 27th November 1931 at Campbelltown, Tasmania to parents George and Fanny Richards.

Peter had five children, Anthony, Yvonne, Paul, James, and Adam and worked as a sawmill and logging contractor in the North East of Tasmania. His favourite pastimes included chopping (of which the standing block was his preferred discipline) and fishing.

Due to a childhood accident Peter was a partial amputee, having only two fingers and a thumb on his left hand.

All through his chopping career and right up until ill health forces his retirement in 1985, Peter was active in the chopping community supplying blocks and logging equipment for the majority of carnivals in the North East.

He was a formidable and revered opponent in championships against the top axemen of the day. He was asked many times by top Tasmanian Champion Axemen in the 60’s to compete in mainland shows, but due to work and family commitments he was forced to decline.

Achievements:

  • 1951 – Pyengana – Jubilee of Federation 12inch Block – 1st place
  • 1958 – Pyengana 18inch Elimination Championship with a £200 prize, competing against Joe Hurst.

Exert from the Examiner newspaper 29/03/1951 (Jubilee of Federation)

Young Axeman Scoops Pool:

In making only his second appearance in competitive chopping matches, 19-year-old Peter Richards scooped the pool at the Pyengana Easter Sports Carnival. P Richards defeated Ron Youd and R Richards in the 9inch. In the 10inch he accounted for L. Binns and Athol Rattray, and in the 12inch he won from J. Pentland and G. Binns.

 

Ritter, Ken

1935 -
SA

Ken worked in the timber industry in the South East of South Australia in the vicinity of Mt Gambier and later moved to Uraidla in the Mt Lofty Ranges near Adelaide where he worked in the market gardens supplying fresh fruit and vegetables to the Adelaide Market.

Ken first commenced woodchopping at the age of 17 years at the Dartmoor Show (Victoria) in 1952. During that year he competed in various events throughout country South Australia and Victoria. The following year, he was called up for National Service and this curtailed his woodchopping career for several years.

In 1970, Ken he returned to woodchopping at the Mannum Show and at the Royal Adelaide Show in that year was placed 3rd in the SA Residents State Underhand Championship and was 2nd in both Novice events, which is an unusual fete. The following year he won both novice events

Ken has competed in woodchopping events in SA and interstate over the past 35 years and has enjoyed the mateship and competition.

One of Ken’s finest achievements was winning the A.J. Wadham 325mm Tree-felling handicap event at the Royal Adelaide Show in 1980, this being the “blue Ribbon’ event for Tree-felling at the Royal Adelaide Show. He was the only South Australian to win this event.

At the age of 70, Ken is still competing in open and veterans’ events and receives pleasure also from seeing his 2 sons compete.

Ken has also contributed to the sport of woodchopping in South Australia by holding official positions with the South Australian Axemen’s Association and South Australian Axemen’s Council as President, Vice President and Handicapper. He is also a Life Member of the South Australian Axemen’s Association.

Ryan, Glen

1941 -
NSW

Glen Ryan was born in 1941, he was one of 13 children in his family with 6 brothers and 6 sisters. He was active with his family in racing bikes and his forestry career working with the Edwards family introduced him to woodchopping.

Glen started woodchopping in 1959. He won show championship in numerous western divisions shows. He has won countless handicap events and was a very successful tree felling competitor. Glen has been competing at Sydney Royal Easter since 1960 where he won several handicap events. He has also successfully competed Interstate.

 

Glen became handicapper of the Mid-west Axeman’s Association when Tom Kirk retired in 1966. He continues to handicap a few shows.

For over 50 years Glen has also dedicated many hours to cut chopping blocks for Western District and Metropolitan Shows. He continues to cut blocks for a few smaller shows.

In February 2009 Glen was inducted into the Lithgow Sporting Hall of Fame as The Reg Cowden Memorial Trust nominated him for all his years of dedication and work as the handicapper for the Mid-West Axemen, achievements from his participation in the mountain run in cycling an for his first place in the doubles World coal shovelling championship.

 

Scott, Ian

23/08/1940
TAS

Ian has been involved in woodchopping and sawing for 50 years.

A natural and competitive sportsman, Ian played Tennis, Rowing, Gold and was a very well-regarded Footballer for Kermandie and a Huon representative.

Returning from a rowing regatta one day the locals involved Ian in a chopping and sawing carnival, he tried it and was hooked.

In 1970 Ian won his first 18inch Single Handed Sawing Championship at Ulverstone. He defended and won his title again in 1974.

With 2 World Records to his credit his records show that he has won 70 State Titles in Single and Double Handed Sawing.

Ian has also won 2 Australian Single-Handed titles and 2 Australian Double Handed titles. Ian’s sawing partners included Wayne Brown, Tony Watson, Maurie Russell, Clayton Stewart and Bill Youd.

Ian is currently a member of the Australian Veterans Team, enjoying competing in Australia and New Zealand. Ian has had success in his later years at the Sydney Royal Easter Show in Veterans Sawing events which he has thoroughly enjoyed as in his younger days work commitments on the family property made it impossible at Easter time for him to attend.

Not only has Ian competed he has contributed for many years at an administration level within the Southern Tasmanian Axemen’s Association gaining him Life Membership recognition for his contributions to the sport of woodchopping. Ian has always been involved with the organisation of the Geeveston Carnival.

Away from woodchopping, Ian is a Justice of the Peace and holds a 35-year service certification.

Ian is very well known around woodchopping areas in Australia and New Zealand. Ian has supported, competed, promoted, coached, and always encouraged others to participate.

His involvement, commitment, fairness, and no-nonsense approach is certainly a true credit to him.

Scott, William “Bill” Joseph

1909 - 1995
TAS

Born in Geeveston on the 29th April 1909. Married in 1936 and had 3 sons: Barrie, Ian, and David.

In the 1950’s/60’s sawing was nearly a forgotten art in the competitive arena in Southern Tasmania, mainly due to the lack of racing standard equipment. Assisted by the late Edgar Thurley, Bill developed racing saws for competition. Many arduous hours were spent in his workshop preparing these saws for little or no financial gain.

His interest led him to investigate the best filing equipment and tempered plates he could locate from Sydney, New Zealand, and America. He was always keen to find a better steel and to file an appropriate edge to improve the standard or to suit a specific species of timber. To prepare racing saw for a carnival was a real passion and he was astute in recognising the potential of a junior sawyer and showed willingness to assist them.

In 1985 Bill suffered from a severe stroke, but this was where his character and constitution came to the fare. It was with single minded determination that he learns to walk, talk, and use his ‘useless’ arm again. However, it wasn’t until he could file a saw again that he was happy with his recovery.

He continued to make and sharpen saws and at the time of his death in 1995 had competed over 100. The pleasure he goes from the sport and the people involved were his motivation.

Bill’s involvement has been acknowledged by receiving a Merit Certificate from the Australian Axemen’s Association and an Australia Day Award honouring his service to sport in the local community.

Shafferius, Col

1927 -
QLD

Born 29th December 1927.

Col was enrolled in Commissioner’s Flat school near Woodford in 1933

Col was a great ambassador for the sport of Woodchopping.

A timber contractor- He was steward for the Bundaberg show for many years passing on his knowledge and encouragement of the sport for many newcomers.

In 1963 Winning the Double Hand Sawing Championship at the Royal Brisbane Show with Bill summers.

1966 Col was a member of the first Australian Touring Axman Team travelling Europe, taking the sport to new horizons, and making lifelong friends along the way.

A competitive axeman, a Queensland Standing Block Champion, he won- at the age of 48 – one of Australia’s richest woodshops- the Tasmanian $2000 in 1988. He was the 2nd backmarker on 12 seconds. A total of 194 axeman entered for the chop.

He won the first ever Double hand sawing conducted with ladies at the Toogoolawah Show with partner Joan Maars.

in 1976 Cole was a member of the first ever three man Australian Team which beat the legendary Basque in a relay event at San Sebastian in Spain, the team cut 9 blocks each and won in a time of 59 minutes 32 seconds.

Subsequently Australian Teams contested in 1977 and again in 1982, both were defeated in the marathon event.

Col’s greatest satisfaction came by placing in the top ten in the first World Championship Tournament in Tasmania in 1970. This took the form of 7 qualifying events over 7 days with the top ten contesting the final over 3 events after a lay day. Won by G Poster, 2nd Gary Hewitt who Col rates the best ever in all types of wood. Col came 10th having two broken axes.

Col together with John Franklin won the Blackbutt Show endurance race in 2 minutes 30 seconds after chopping off 6 blocks between them.

Col was in the Australian Team – South Africa- in the 1970s.

Col was part of Australian Touring Axemen – Europe-  26 May – 25th July 1979 this included Surry County Show, Television Appearances, South of England show, YOUR OF GERMANY, Lincolnshire show, Royal Norfolk Show, Kent County Show, East of England Show, Lambeth County Show (London) , New Forest show. Upon retiring from woodchopping Col was steward of the woodchop Gatton Show Queensland.

Sherriff, Allen

TAS

Allen Sherriff is one of the well-known Sherriff family who has been prominent in Tasmanian Chopping for many years.

He won his first unregistered chop in Lebrina at the young age of 15. IN 1968, he won the Tasmanian 12inch Underhand Championship. He won the points aggregate for the North East in 1971-72. Allen teamed with his brother Algie on three occasions in the 15inch and won them all.

In 1975, Allen became President of the North East Axemen’s Association when it was in financial and membership difficulty. By the time he relinquished his position in 1983, the North East boasted more axemen and prize money than any other association in the state.

In 1976 along with his brother Algie, they formed the Georgetown Axemen’s club. They ran a successful carnival each year, peaking at $4000 worth of trophies and prize money. This was one of the richest single day chopping events held in Tasmania, drawing 110-120 axemen from around the state and from the mainland. During this time, they also established the “winners’ series”. This consisted of holding night chops at the local Mt George Hotel. This was very popular with the locals and axemen from the Launceston area.

IN 1980, Allen travelled to the Adelaide Show where he was successful in the 12-inch standing and 12-inch underhand chop. His biggest thrill came in 1984 when he won the Ron Sherriff Memorial Chop. This was an event which had eluded him for a long time.

In 1985 he was recognised for his services to woodchopping by being named Tasmanian axemen of the year. Allen spent most of his 38 years as an A grade axeman, often cutting off the back mark. Sadly, after a short illness, he passed away aged 53 years old.

Sherriff, Ron

1931 - 1968
TAS

When he won the World Standing Chop at Deloraine, Tasmania, 13th January 1968, Ron had totalled 80 woodchopping Championships. Four days later, this experienced timber worker and bushman died in a fatal car accident near Devil’s Gate in the Forth Valley of Tasmania.

Eulogies presented at his funeral were expressed in the words:
“A great ambassador for Tasmania wherever he went, an outstanding sportsman and a fine personality.”
“The greatest all-round axemen and sportsman this country has ever known.”

The life and death of Ron Sherriff was respectfully acknowledged by more than three thousand people at the Royal Easter Show, as they stood in silence in the central arena and a 15 inch costal ash was draped with an Australian Team singlet and many Championship ribbons. This was a significant tribute to a memorable Australian axeman.

Ronald Sherriff, on the 11th January 1931, was the first born of fifteen children to Roy and Phoebe Sherriff, at his grandparent’s home at the Tunnel on North East Tasmania. Along with his brothers and sisters, he attended the Lilydale Area School. Like many oldest children in the family, he regarded himself as the protector of his younger siblings. Most school days involved “scrapes and punch-ups” as he defended the family name.

At 13 years of age he left school and went to work for his dad from eight in the morning until five in the afternoon. He assisted felling trees and would cut mill logs with a crosscut saw which were then dragged by a bullock team to a landing and then transported by truck to a mill in Lilydale.

At 16 years of age, Ron won his first woodchopping event at Pipers Brook, having borrowed two shillings to enter. His winnings were ten shillings.

In 1953 he took a serious interest in competitive woodchopping and until 1959 he averaged nine major wins per year. It was in 1953 and 1954 that he won his first tree-felling events and the Melbourne Show.

He married Myrtle (Toby) McCoy on the 13th of November 1954. Whilst living at Bracknell from 1954 to 1955 he worked at clearing ground for the transmission line from Deloraine to Cressy. He then moved his family to Rossarden. It was a matter of going to where work was. Joining his mates, the Youd brothers, he once again took his family to live at Maydena. This move was more beneficial financially as payment was for timber cut. He was able to choose his times to pursue his woodchopping sport.

In 1955 he won the 42-inch girth big-block event at the Hobart Show and later gained a reputation as a “big block” specialist. By the end of 1959 Ron’s expertise in the “butcher block” event was firmly established.

In 1961 he gained 24 wins and one thousand pounds in prize money. Still a big-block specialist, he developed into an all-round champion axeman and gradually accumulated:
4 World Championships
10 Australian Championships 
55 Tasmanian Championships 
All in the standing and tree-felling events until his death in 1968. 

He represented Tasmania and Australia, captained his state and toured New Zealand in 1961 and Great Britain, South Africa, and Rhodesia in 1966 where they travelled 24,000 miles and gave 24 chopping exhibitions. 

One of his most notable achievements was in breaking the 54-year-old record for the 24-inch chop or “butchers block”. In 1962 Ron’s effort was described as a “magnificent display of endurance, stamina, and experience to finish 50 blows in front of fellow champion Tasmanian axeman, Clayton Stewart.

His favourite event was the tree felling and even at the peak of his career, his fitness regime, included a regular running and fitness routine.

What were the qualities that made Ron Sherriff a Champion Axeman?
A tough upbringing inured to hardship from an early age. Cutting and splitting wood developed stamina, endurance, and precision with the axe. In the face of defeat, he would analyse his opponent’s strengths and weaknesses and endeavour to challenge these.

From a young age Ron was a natural athlete. Like most country boys of his era, he enjoyed sport but lacked opportunities. He excelled at cricket, football, and golf. He was a self-taught musician and played the guitar and accordion.

In January 1968 Ron was clearing the slope and felling a eucalyptus in the Mersey Valley of Tasmania. The tree hit a limb and the butt slapped back knocking him to the ground. It was a fatal accident.

Ron Sherriff will be remembered as a loyal, passionate, and committed person, a true champion in his sport was enticed with a life of humility, generosity, and a willingness to help others.

  • Described in his obituary by a well-known woodchopping reporter as “nature’s gentleman…a wonderful sportsman…greatest all-rounder produced in Tasmania”, Ron Sherriff, a quiet, unassuming Maydena logging contractor but originally from Lefroy, recorded his first win at Pipers River in 1947.
  • In a twenty-year career, he went on to win 55 Tasmanian titles, 10 Australian Championships and 4 World titles as well as winning the Oscar for gaining the most points at the Sydney, Melbourne, and Hobart Shows. He also was the champion of champions at the Brisbane Show in 1964 and 1967 and won the all-round Tasmanian title three years in a row from 1964-1966.
  • In 1962 Ron, at the Tasmanian Championship at Somerset, broke a 54-year-old World Record for the 24-inch standing block, a record still unbroken today. In 1966 at Lietinna, he broke his own World Record when he cut through an 18-inch log in 53.0 seconds.
  • Killed in a logging accident in the Forth Valley in 1968.
  • Ron Sherriff will be remembered as a former Australian Captain, a champion axeman and a great ambassador for his sport, his state, and his nation.

Smith, Arthur Charles “AC”

1901 - 1955
TAS

Lived all his life at East Sassafras, NW Tasmania, at Smith and Other Road proudly names after Arthur. He worked all his life in the bush and on his neighbour’s farm. His jobs were cutting railway sleepers by broad axe, splitting fence posts, post and rail fencing, shingles, and firewood All trees were cut down with an axe.

Arthur supplied chopping blocks to may carnivals including the famous Henley on the Mersey at Latrobe.

He world work at least 10 hours a day for 6 days a week and earn less than 2lb a week.

Arthur competed in standing, underhand and double handed sawing events. His speciality was the 18-24 inch standing in which he was never beaten in. He teamed up with Jim Foster to cut the 24-inch Butchers Block and were never beaten.

Arthur won many World Championships in these two events. His greatest win was the Duke of Glouster Event cut at Burnie in 1934, the 18-inch Championship. He was a reserve Axeman for the event and had not training for it, he had the flu, but still walked 5 miles with his axe in a sugar bag and got a lift. He only had enough money to enter 1 event and he won it in front of Royalty Beating Jim Foster, Bob Rad ford, and other champions axemen.

His son Vern has competed in woodchopping and his grandson and great grandsons still compete today.

He was severely injured in the bush on a still day by a limb and died the day he was to be released from hospital from a blood clot.

He will be remembered as World Champion who loved BIG blocks.

Smith, Kevin

15/06/1934
NSW

Kevin was born in Childers (Queensland) on the 15th June 1934. He moved to Eastern Dorrigo (New South Wales) at a young age and began working in the timber industry at the age of 14. He began competing and was a consistent chopper at local carnivals from the age of 18.

Kevin’s major wins started in 1958 when he was 24 with his first world championship at the Coffs Harbour Carnival – the 16 inches underhand in the time of 1 minute and 20 seconds. He also held the Hunter River Championship.

In 1959 Kevin achieved a World Championship double at the Coffs Harbour Carnival. He took out the 14-inch World Championship Standing Block in a time of 55 seconds and retained his 16-inch Underhand World Championship with a time of 70 seconds.

During 1960, along with Jim Lavis, Kevin represented Australia in a tour of New Zealand. He met with outstanding success on this tour.

Kevin was invited to take part in an exhibition chop with 11 other world class axemen at Lane Cove National Park when Qantas entertained delegates of airlines from 42 nations.

In 1961 Kevin achieved his “greatest win” at the Royal Easter Show in Sydney taking out the 15-inch underhand World Championship in a time of 39 seconds against the top axemen from Australia and New Zealand.

He also represented Australia in the inter-dominion woodchopping championship.

Kevin has achieved 3 World Titles and numerous wins in major woodchopping contests throughout New South Wales, Queensland, and New Zealand.

Kevin was forced into retirement from woodchopping due to a back injury when he was in his early 30s.

Smith, Owen Arthur

02/05/1944
TAS

Owen was born on the 2nd of May 1944 at Woodbury Tasmania, to parents William (Jack) and Vonder Smith. He was one of five children, Merle, Malcolm, Gloria, and William.

He worked as a logging contractor, tree farmer and farmer. Owen’s favourite woodchopping discipline was the tree felling and iron man events.

An Iron Man Championship consists of completing an underhand, a standing block, a single hand sawing and a tree felling consecutively.

Most of his childhood was spend around the Midland area, until his parents bought a farm ‘Ferndale’, Ross. This is where he met Earl Stewart who introduced him to Woodchopping.

He started Woodchopping in 1965 with his first event at the Launceston Show. His first ever tree felling event was at the Royal Melbourne Show in 1966. He married his wife Sue in 1969 and they had two children, Mark, and Anna.

His woodchopping and tree felling was instrumental in his job as a contract faller and logging contractor.

Achievements

His greatest achievements were the Australian Tree Felling Championship in Hobart in 1977 in a time of 1 minute, 24 seconds and the World Iron Man Championship at Canberra Show in 1984.

  • Won one (1) World Tree Felling Championship
  • Won seven (7) Australian Tree Felling Championships
  • Twice Reserve World Tree Felling Champion
  • Seven (7) Times Reserve Australian Tree Felling Champion
  • 20+ Show and Club Tree Felling Championships
  • Won one (1) World Iron Man Championship
  • Won one (1) Australian Iron Man Championship
  • Winner of the Tasmanian Government Thousands Handicap

Stewart, Clayton

1926 - 2004
TAS

Clayton began his woodchopping career prior to 1950 and continued to the year 2000. He competed in Australia wide winning many Handicap and Championship events. Although Clayton was more noted for his precision cutting in Standing Blocks he also competed in Underhand, Tree felling and Sawing, both Single and Double. He travelled overseas to USA and Canada where he won 17 World Titles in about 13 years from 1963-1976.

Clayton represented Tasmania and Australia in Teams events, he also represented Australia with Doug Youd at the World Sports Expo in Montreal, Canada in May 1967. To our knowledge he still holds World Records in 12-inch Standing Block in 13.7 seconds at Latrobe Tasmania in 1965, also in the 30-inch Butchers Block with Ron Sherriff in Brisbane in 1965 in a time of 3 minutes and 26.7 seconds.

One of his pride of joy wins was the Sir Henry Bolte Cup 14 inch Standing Block Championship at Cann River Victoria on 20th April just after the Sydney Show, actually Tasmanian axemen were placed 1st, 2nd and 3rd in this event which supposedly got up the nose of the Victorians. Clayton has a room in his home where his trophies are all on display, that is how many over the years he had won.

His last win at Royal Shows was Adelaide 1995. A 10-inch Standing Block Handicap where he defeated his son Garry. He was very proud to be a part of a minority of families where the three generations all competed together at a Royal Show in a 3-man Team Relay with his son Garry and grandson Robbie in 1991 in Adelaide. To our knowledge this was a first.

Not only was Clayton a competitor, he also supplied logs many times for the North West Tasmanian Axemen’s Association, especially the Devonport Regatta, and supplied the standing block clamps for the NWTAA. He was willing to teach and show other axemen his knowledge in woodchopping, and many a time a young American would show up on his doorstep to learn the Clayton Stewart way. In recent times he also supplied a lot of timber for the Australian Axemen’s Hall of Fame in Latrobe, Tasmania.

 

 

Stewart, Garry

25/04/1948
TAS
Garry followed his father, Clayton (centre) into woodchopping and is proud to have son Robbie (left) follow him – photo Adelaide Show 1997
Garry in a favourite event
Garry displays his medals from 2013 Australian Masters Games

Outstanding Service to the Sport

Garry has been a member of the Central Victorian Axemen’s Assoc. for approximately 50 years and his commitment to supporting woodchopping in that time has been exceptional.

While competing regularly and successfully on many occasions, a lot of Garry’s time in the Sport has been a commitment to committee and leadership responsibilities.

He was president of the CVAA for 10 years, vice president for two years, Victoria Axemen’s Council president 11 years and three years as vice pres. He was also VAC team co-ordinator for many years.

Garry also spent some time in various positions in the Australian Axemen’s Association – delegate for VAC for 14 years, selector for 23 years and head selector for 15 years. He was also secretary for 16 years and vice president two years.

Then there was handicapping – 17 years for the Royal Melbourne Show, 20 years and current for the Royal Adelaide Show and five years for CVAA. Royal Melbourne Show woodchop committee – four years.

There were also various team activities and commitments: Team Manager for Australian Under 21 team in New Zealand for two years, represented Australia on two occasions in USA, Australia v New Zealand at Sydney 1994 – represented Victoria in team events in New Zealand, Jakarta and United Kingdom. Was Australian Champion Chainsaw Operator in 1994. Life member of CVAA 1991.

Garry followed his father, Clayton (centre) into woodchopping and is proud to have son Robbie (left) follow him – photo Adelaide Show 1997
Garry in a favourite event
Garry displays his medals from 2013 Australian Masters Games

Strochnetter, Clarence O.A.M.

1938 -
TAS

Clarie was born at St Mary’s in 1938. He was raised at Pyengana and lived there until 1980. He and his brother Leon were both born with muscular dystrophy, which restricted them to life in a wheelchair.

Clarrie was interested in the sport for woodchopping at an early age and from 1958 to 1962 and 1964 to 1982 he held the position of secretary and treasurer of the Pyengana Sports Club.

From 1966 to 1982 he was the inaugural President of the Pyengana Chopping Club, which was established to raise funds to St Giles in Launceston. This event is still running today.

IN 1967 he became starter of the North Eastern Axeman’s Association, a position he held for 24 years.

In 1979 he was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for service to the community. In 1983 he received an Australian Axemen’s Award of Merit, which was a tremendous honour for him.

Clarrie was a very talented musician being able to play the mouth organ, button accordion, tin whistle, guitar, mandolin, and ukulele.

Clarrie held many positions with other organisations such as Disabled Peoples International and St Giles Society. Clarrie will be remembered for his sense of humour, his enjoyment of life and for his contributions to others.

Sullivan, Arthur Edward

1881 - 1930
TAS

Arthur was born in Forth in Tasmania in 1881 to parents James and Mary Sullivan.

Prior to moving to New Zealand where he excelled as a champion sawyer and won his championships, held a world record and two New Zealand records, Arthur moved to the Esperance area in the south of the State.

Here it appears that he worked as a bushman for the Hopetoun Mill. While there he married, and from the years 1904 – 1907 he competed successfully in chopping carnivals in the area.

On Saturday November 25, 1905 Arthur is reported in the local paper as follows:

A match for £25 a side took place in the Exhibition Building, Hobart, on the 11th, between A.E Sullivan, of Hopetoun and A. Featherstone, through 18inch standing blocks. Sullivan proved victorious, winning by five blows, and falling his block in the very creditable time of 1 minute, 52 1-5 seconds. Sullivan, who is 6ft 4in. high, is a splendid athlete, …

In the early 1900s Arthur moved his family to the North Island of New Zealand; it was here in 1908 that he won his first World Record 24 inch Single Handed Sawing in 1min 16.4seconds at a place called Eltham, creating a New Zealand record at the same time.

Arthur returned to Tasmania in 1923 and from there he went into the hotel industry in Hobart and at one time he ran a hotel and billiard parlour at Sheffield. Arthur’s mural can be seen on a wall at Sheffield, the town of murals.

Achievements

  • Between 1908 and 1912 Arthur won for 24″ Single Sawing World Championships and two 24″ Double Handed Sawing Australasian Championships one with A. Carlson in 1909 and one with Pedder in 1912.
  • Arthur held one World Record in 1913 and two New Zealand records in 1908 and 1912.

Summers, Bill

1922 - 1992
QLD

Born in Nambour 22nd August 1922
Brother to the former world Tree felling champion Vic Summers

He had a lifetime association with the timber industry.
He competed in his first chop at the age of 11 at a sports day at Warkon Station to raise money for the Surat Hospital.

Bill was 15 when he first competed at the Royal Brisbane Show in 1938

His first win however was at Kilkivan where he won the novice and the 12” standing block.

Bill’s first win at the Brisbane exhibition in 1940 with partner Cec Spence in the 2nd division Butchers block then for four consecutive years with his brother Vic and the following year with brother Tom.

Two years later with Partner Jack O’Toole won off a handicap of 100 seconds.

Bill and Vic lowered the record cutting time in the butcher’s block on several occasions.

Bill’s best cutting times were in the 1950’s 18 seconds in the 12” Underhand at the Teebar Sports and in Bundaberg, the 12” standing block in 22 seconds.

Bill won the 14” Standing Block Championship at the Imbil Show three years in Succession.

As a lad, Bill loved tree felling – gaining most of his expertise from his father showing him how to climb with one board.

His successes included winning the prestigious event at Gladstone, Bundaberg, and Gympie for three consecutive years at each show.

He also placed in Tree felling Championships at the Royal Sydney Show.

Although the winner of many woodshop events, two of Bill’s most memorable performances during his career were to win the Queensland Sawing Championships at the Royal Brisbane Show.

In 1960 with Lee Griggs and 1963 with partner Col Schafferius.

Bill had the honour of performing in a woodchop exhibit before Queen Elizabeth II.
He received life membership of the Queensland Axeman’s Association in 1991.

Bill Summers was 79 years old when he collapsed and died during a broad-axe demonstration held at the Museum Heritage Day Chinchilla 1992.

 

Tagg, Lesley Henry

1915 - 1976
QLD

Leslie was born in 1915 in the Wang Wauk area in the Wallamba district near Taree in New South Wales.

He became well known in the circles of football, tennis, and cricket, in 1939 the then family moved to Beerwah in Queensland and took up woodchopping and soon went on to become one of Queensland and Australia’s most distinguished axemen.

He was married to Irene and had four children, Joyce, Oriel, John, and Athol.

In 1951 he became the most successful axeman at the Sydney Royal Easter Show and was presented with his trophy by the then Miss Australia, Miss Margaret Hughes.

His success continued and again winning the 15 in underhand contest in Sydney in the 50s and may more competitions throughout the East Coast of Australia.

Some of his opponents in the era included the greats George Parker, Jack O’Toole, Tom Kirk, Leo Appo, Bob Breton and the Lavis and Summers brothers.

Les passed away in 1976 and lies at rest and peace in Hughenden Queensland.

Timbs, John Gilbert

12/02/1941
TAS

Born at New Norfolk to Edward and Minnie Timbs, in a family of eight, he commenced woodchopping in 1964 at the Elwick Hotel, along with his brother Baden, they teamed up quite often in double handed sawing events, and took out first place at the Royal Sydney Show in the early 1970’s.

John had broken records in several World Marathon woodchopping events, in 1979 he broke a world record in a 60cm (2 foot) underhand log, a record which has been set un 1898 – 1900 by J. Brain, John’s cutting time was 2 mins and 56.6 seconds this was 1 min and 4 second faster than that set by Brain.

Again in 1984 he broke two world marathon records, first on New Year’s Day at the Busy Park Show he cut against Garry Hewitt of QLD. in the Ironman event, which consisted of 300mm standing, 300mm underhand, 375mm single sawing and 300mm tree-felling, he set a new record of 3 mins and 37 seconds cutting 1 mins 52 seconds off the time set previously by Geoff Sweetman of NSW.

In early April of the same year he competed against Martin O’Toole of Vic. Slicing through 5 x 350mm (14 inch) underhand logs in 3minutes and 30.7 seconds cutting 1 minute, and 13.2 seconds form the previous record.

John was also a very strong teams cutter and would really excel when the chips were down, during the 1970s the Southern team were almost certain to lose but he was switched from the first to last standing bock and the South were the victors by almost half a block.

He was a very strong competitor in tree-felling events and several times was only beaten in Championships by one of two blows. He competed at all the major shows throughout Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea, he was the only Tasmanian Axeman to compete in Jakarta at the Highland Games in 1984 along with Terry Kennedy N.S.W, John Goodwin and Mark Hughes N.Z.

John was a committee member of the Bushy Park Show Society for a number of years and also the Maydena Axemen’s Club for 23 years where he was always a very dedicated and willing working member, helping with organising logs for both these carnivals.

Wadley, Lionel Jeffrey

1922 - 1986
TAS

Jeffrey Lionel Wadley lived at Selbourne in early years but for most of his life he enjoyed living at ‘Westfield’, the 1825 Westbury property, with his loving wife Elizabeth and their six children.

Jeff Wadley was the informative voice for woodchopping, on television, around the agricultural shows and in the printed media. His outlook was positive, considered, progressive and entertaining. Jeff was President of the Northern Tasmanian Axemen’s and Sawyers’ Association for 32 years (the association established in 1932). He was President of the Tasmanian Council of Axemen’s Association and “he was largely responsible for the formation of the Australian Axmen’s Association, when he was chairman of a meeting of representatives from all states, called at Ulverstone in 1970. He led the Australian Axemen’s Association for three years. A thorough and tenacious worker, he was active in co-ordinating chopping within the state and organising the supply of blocks, programming, prizes, fund-raising, entries, and publicity for many events.

He diligently promoted the sport and corresponded with team’s interstate and internationally. In 1979, as competitor and Team Manager, he travelled with an enthusiastic group of sports men and families to Perth and Mildura. (Competitors including Ian and Duggan, Peter Foster, Garry Lovell, John Timbs, Eric Farrow, Greg Lovell, Capt., Stan Saintly, Bill Youd, A.G. Lofty Grave, Tas. President). IN 1981, Wadley was Manager and President of a triumphant Tasmanian team which toured New Zealand (they won their final Test Race Australia – 2, NZ – 1). David Foster, Greg Lovell, Ian Duggan, Gary Hewitt, Martin O’Toole, Lawrence O’Toole, and Jeff made up the team for the Thames International Teams Race.

Jeff Wadley was not only a fine administrator; he was a cheerful person who enjoyed success as a sportsman in his own right. A keen cyclist, fisherman, footballer, cricketer, and woodchopper, he was a regular competitor and loved the companionship and excitement of the arena in Tasmania and other states. Amongst his triumphs were the third prize in the World Woodchopper Heat of the 1000 at Glenorchy in January 1971 and the award of Axemen of the Year Jan/Feb ’81 at Henley on the Mersey.

President of the Westbury Rotary Club for many years, Jeff Wadley was a community minded person as many of the chopping community are and in their whites and greens, they were regularly raising money of taking up a collection in the area for a worthy cause.

Widderson, Walter “Jum”

17/05/1923
WA

Jum was born on May 17,1923 to farming parents Walter and Alice Widderson and started his woodchopping career in 1942 at the age of 19. His occupation as a farmer and logging contractor kept him physically fit for his wood chopping competitions.

Underhand was his favourite event. He won the first two events he ever competed in, both being underhand events in Boddington WA on February 28, 1942 for which he proudly accepted the prize money of 3 pound 10 shillings.1948 saw Jum’s influence take hold in the sport with him winning The WA Axeman’s title in the 14inch underhand, a title he continued to hold for another four years. A highlight of his woodchopping career was exhibiting the sport to royal visitors. He was chosen to participate in an exhibition chop in front of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth ll in 1948 and then again for Princess Margaret in 1972 at an event in Bunbury.

He was responsible for introducing Tree Pegging events into Western Australia in 1949 after traveling and interstate and acquiring the knowledge to do so.

In 1952 Jum married the love of his life Daphne Froome and have four children Vicki, Shelly, Beau and Tania. His son Beau followed in his footsteps and started woodchopping. He can now boast a legacy of eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Jum was a member of the World Series team that travelled to Tasmania in 1974 and again in Western Australia in 1979. The 12inch underhand record of 22 5/8 seconds was held by Jum for 22 years.

Jum competed at the Brunswick Junction Show consecutively for 36 years.

He was heavily involved with the Western Australian Axeman’s League for a total of 38 years, in which time he held many positions including president (for a five-year span) judge and organiser. He received life membership to the League in 1978 he was also a recipient of a testimonial dinner for his 40 years of service to woodchopping.

Jum officially retired from woodchopping in 1988 but with the love of the sport still running in his veins he took on a role as a Judge at the Royal Perth Show for which he performed for many years to follow.

To end a stellar career, he was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for his outstanding contribution to the sport of woodchopping through the Western Australian Axeman’s League.

Jum is now referred to as Walter “Jumbo” Widderson O.A.M.

William, Phillip James

31/05/1944
VIC

Outstanding Service to the Sport

Phillip started woodchopping in 1967 at Neerim South Show, coached by his father-in-law, Jim Caldwell.

He was made a Life member of South & Central Gippsland Axemen’s Association in 1997, received Australian Axemen’s Assoc, Award of Merit 1997. Selector for Victoria Axemen’s Council and Australian Axemen’s Assoc. Starter for SCGAA for 40 years- helped the late Russ Rees for a couple of years, also starter for East Gippsland Axemen’s Assoc. at Buchan, Bruthen, Bairnsdale and Omeo Shows, Handicapper for SCGAA for 40 years and now assistant handicapper to Brian Hall.

He still helps getting logs for chops and does a bit of starting with a new stopwatch given to him by daughter Sonia in 2015 when he attended Caldwell Family induction.

Phillip has enjoyed his sport with his most treasured wins being a Father & Son at Sydney Royal & Melbourne Show, also winning the double handed sawing at Melbourne with Brian & Les Caldwell wedger, also any teams race at any show.

Phillip had 41 years as handicapper for SCGAA- he was widely recognised as being fair & accurate, he kept meticulous records and was happy to explain marks. When Phillip took on handicapping some 40 plus years ago he was given some advice from his Father-in-Law – ‘’if an axeman he did not know entered a championship that the great Jack O’Toole was in he should put him on the same mark as Jack because he must think he could beat Jack”’.

While enjoying his long career in woodchopping as a competitor Phillip has also enjoyed being a handicapper & helping with all the ‘behind the scenes’’ work. His time has been dedicated to the service of his sport and his fellow competitors, He believes it has been a privilege to handicap some of our great axemen- Fosters, French, Stewart, Phillips, Stubbs, Lovell, Duggan, Youds plus many ‘’dark horses” not well known in Victoria – a handicappers delight. Others were Standing block, G Parker, N French great to watch- Underhand, P Caldwell- great style, T Caldwell, D Bolstad also Youd my best axeman, Garry Hewitt Qu. Another great axeman. O’Toole family – all of them. David & George Foster, Harold Winkel underhand great. Youd boys “’Tree Kings”, M Lentz USA a handicappers delight.

While stepping back a little, Phillip is still an active and valued member of his Association and of our wider woodchopping fraternity. Phillip also ably served as VAC secretary for a period.

Winkel, Charlie

1904 - 1994
QLD

Charlie Winkel was born at Waraba Creek Caboolture QLD on 13th May 1904. He was one of 10 children. Charlie grew up at Mt Mee. He left school at an early age and worked in the timber industry. In 1928 he married Kathleen Phillips at Ravenshoe in QL, they had 6 children, 3 boys and 3 girls.

1930 Charlie first competed at Sydney Royal Show aged 26. His championship wins at the Sydney Royal Show are as follows:

  • 1930 Sleeper Squaring Championship (only time held)
  • 1931 Australian 15-inch Standing Championship
  • 1931 NSW 15-inch Underhand Championship
  • 1931 Double Handed Sawing Championship (sawing partner Earnie Ehlerth)
  • 1932 Commonwealth 13-inch Tree felling Championship

Because of difficult times during the Great Depression he did not return to compete at Sydney Royal Show until 1938. This was the year that Sydney Royal Titles were designed to be World Titles.

  • 1938 15-inch Standing World championship
  • 1939 15-inch Underhand World Championship
  • 1939 15-inch Standing World Championship (he was the first man to win the double world championship titles at the Sydney Royal Show)

1939 Charlie’s brother won the 13-inch World Tree-felling Championship. Carlie did not return to the Sydney Royal until the early 1950’s.

  • 1953 Double Handed Sawing World Championship (with Jim Lavis)

He won 8 Queensland 15-inch Standing Block Championships at Brisbane Exhibition.

Charlie Winkel is the only man to have won the 13-inch Tree-felling Championship, 15-inch Underhand Championship, 15-inch Standing Championship and Double Handed Sawing Championship at the Sydney Royal Show. He was deprived of Legendary Status by the fact that 4 of these titles were called NSW, Australian and Commonwealth Championships prior to the event being renamed World Titles in 1938.

Charlie Winkel passed away in Dorrigo NSW aged 89 years. R.I.P.

Woodbridge, Fred

05/05/1942
WA

Fred was born on the 5th May 1942 to parents William and Kathleen in Kununoppin.

The love of woodchopping began for Fred in December 1956, where he competed in the open events at the Osborne Park Show. Fred was a true natural with the axe and he never competed in any novice events.

Working as a farmer and within the timber industry enabled him to keep up his physical fitness and mental stamina, attributes needed to succeed in the sport of woodchopping.

His raw talent continued and strengthened when he made his debut at the Perth Royal Show in 1957. At the tender age of 15 he was finalist in Western Australia’s most prestigious championship, the Tom Puckett 350mm underhand. An event which he soon made his own, after winning his first title in 1967 he went on to secure first place for another 12 years.

Fred soon became a force to be reckoned with, taking out numerous highly sought after titles including the 250mm standing block at the Osborne Park Show, the Manjimup Show’s hard hitting standing block and a number of Australian underhand, standing block and combination championships at the Mt Gambier and Sydney Shows.

His winning legacy continued as he reigned as club champion for the Progressive Axeman’s Association and the Western Australian Axeman’s League for 20 consecutive years.

During his woodchopping career and amongst his many titles, Fred married and had four children, Tracey, Susan, William, and Annette.

Fred was instrumental in forming the West Australian Axeman’s Council and held the position of President until 1989 where an injury he sustained withdrew him from competition.

He also held the Presidential position within the Central District Axeman’s Association for several years.

His visionary foresight continues today as he continues to help all three clubs within Western Australia to ensure the sport of woodchopping flourishes. He values helping both young and old axemen, by instructing on technique and passing on his knowledge and experience that saw him carve a very successful career within the sport he loves.

Fred’s participation and competition continues today, 56 years after he first picked up an axe.

When Fred is not competing or repairing his beloved axes, he enjoys gardening, hunting, and fishing.

Youd, Mervyn

1924 - 2011
TAS

One of the most polished standing block axemen Tasmania has produced. 

Merv Youd won his first standing block championship at Bushy Park 1949.

Winner of 205 State, National and World titles in every discipline of woodchopping over his 30-year career.

At one stage held 5 Australian records in single events

Merv captained Tasmanian 20 times and represented Australia 6 times

Merv was captain of Tasmania’s 1970 World Series victorious team and was named captain of the World Relay Team at the conclusion of the series at Ulverstone.

In 1953 he was the first Tasmanian to win the Britstand Trophy for the most successful competitor in single handed events at the Sydney Royal Easter Show.

In 1953 he won the World 15-inch Standing Championship at Sydney Show.

He won the World Double Handed Sawing Championship 3 times in the 1950’s at Sydney Show.

He won the Hard-Hitting Championship 5 times at the Sydney Show.

Merv won 7 2-foot Standing Championships throughout Australia.

 

Youd, Ray

1932 - 1995
TAS

Ray was the second youngest son in a family of competitive axemen. Brothers Trevor, Merv, Rex, Doug, Ray and Bill would go down in history as one of the greatest woodchopping families ever. Along with their sister Margaret, their family grew up on farmland and bush near Deloraine and Westbury.  Their father Albert was a competitive axemen and bushman in the Wuamby bush district, and it was natural that the boys followed his interest.

Ray was a good all-round axeman but showed a special skill in the tree felling.

  • He won the Tree-felling World Title 4 times at the Royal Sydney Show.
  • Won the Australian Tree-felling championship at Royal Melbourne Show 7 times.
  • Won numerous Tasmanian Tree-felling Championships
  • Set a World Record Time in the Tree (1min 22 2/5 seconds) at Ballarat in 1956. This is still the 3rd fastest cutting time.
  • Won 18-inch single handed Sawing Championship at Royal Hobart Show in 1969
  • Won Double Handed Sawing Championship with George Foster
  • Won numerous Butchers Block events with brother Merv.
  • Won 12-inch Standing Handicap at Bushy Park in 1956
  • Won many Standing and Underhand Handicap events.
  • Won many Hard-hitting Contests.
  • Ray was a regular member of the Tasmanian Team which competed against the rest of Australia at the Royal Melbourne Show in the 1950-1960’s.

Ray was a timber contractor for Australian Newsprint Mills and Maydena. He suffered from Parkinson’s Disease in his later years and it was this that eventually claimed his life. The sport of woodchopping was in his blood and his talent and skill will be long remembered by those who observed or competed against him.

 

 

Young, Ronald Arthur Patrick

1931 - 2007
VIC

Ron was born in Geelong on the 5th January 1931 to John James Young and Nellie Cecilia Murphy.  He was one of seven children and lived in and around Western Victoria for many years.  In 1936, prior to World War II, Ron’s 14-year-old brother, Terrence, was tragically killed in a Sawmill accident.  After the beginning of the war, the Young family moved to Fitzroy North.  During which time his father worked in an Ivanhoe sawmill and the family, along with many others of the era, faced some very difficult times.

Ron was a strapping young lad, 6 feet tall and well built.  He tried and almost succeeded in joining the army hindered only by his mother’s tip off to local recruiters at the time, to his mere 13 years of age.  In 1945, the family moved to Healesville, Victoria, where Ron, like his father, began his working life in the bush, logging and working in Sawmills.  It became necessary for Ron to live away from home during the week, often traveling all over Victoria to find work in the bush.  He was married in 1950 to Estelle Mary Morse, and in the years that followed, became the proud father of six children: Denise, Rhonda, Judy, Terence, Michael, and Colin.

Ron was introduced to the sport of Woodchopping by Jack Ayres during his teens; however, he did not return to the sport until his early thirties after injuries forced him to retire from his other love, football.

Ron returned to Woodchopping to find his love of competition and unearth a competitive spirit that would follow him through the rest of his life. With the help and encouragement of many experienced axemen and soon to be friends, Ron gained success quickly which proved a great motivator for the rest of his career.

True to his competitive nature and much to the amazement of those who knew him, when a couple of ‘Old Timers’ told Ron that he would never be any good unless he ‘gave up the smokes’ and improved his lung capacity, Ron who had been a smoker all his life, promptly gave up the habit.  He was very determined and throughout his entire life, endeavoured to be the best that he could be in his chosen sport.

Ron was a great supporter of all woodchopping events, Royal shows and small country shows alike.  In the days where
every small town had an agricultural show and hence a woodchop, Ron would pile his children into the back on the car and attend as many of these events as possible.

He competed in all disciplines; the Standing Block, Underhand, and Tree Felling, until his late sixties where his expertise as an exponent of the chainsaw was brought to the fore. Ron achieved a great number of wins in both Victorian and interstate competitions and was very proud to have represented Australia in Hong Kong and New Zealand in the 1970’s.  Ron captained a Victorian team in New Zealand and competed in the World Masters Games returning with a bagful of Gold, Silver and Bronze medals.

For many years, Ron was the supplier of logs for the Central Victorian Axemen’s Association, a great number of countries shows as well as the Royal Adelaide and Melbourne Shows.  He had a 50-year association with the Royal Melbourne Show as the Chief Supervisor of the Woodchopping Events and its ground staff.  He ensured that everything ran smoothly, was clean and on time prior to and during the Show. Most memorable were his talents on a front-end loader, in particular when faced with very little space and time or when placing tree poles.  Ron passed away in 2007 aged 76 years and worked at the Melbourne show until 2005.  At this time, his son Michael took over his position, made possible with the knowledge that he had received over a lifetime in and around Woodchopping with his father.

A great ambassador for the sport of woodchopping both competitively and behind the scenes, Ron was a strong supporter of the Victorian Police Axemen’s Association, a founding member of the Healesville Axemen’s Club, life member, past president and committee member of the Central Victorian Axemen’s Association, a regular competitor on HSV 7’s World of Sport and was always willing to help new axemen to learn the sport.  He ran and organised woodchops at the Marysville Woorianda Festival, Millgrove Sports on Melbourne Cup Day, Healesville Football Club, Healesville High School and with his wife Estelle, helped run the Axemen’s Dinners held at the completion of the Melbourne Show.  Ron and Estelle also organised fundraising woodchop events at the Healesville Hospital Carnival for more than 25 years, a contribution that was recognised with a Life Governorship of the Healesville Hospital.  With the help of his children, Ron continued to run woodchop events for the hospital after Estelle’s death in 1992.

…
Compiled with contributions from Denise Reid (daughter)2010