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.