Tom Fitzpatrick from Narre Warren competed in the under-18 boys Novice Underhand competition at the Berwick Show, while his parents Peter and Sue cheered him on. 27816
By Kelly Yates
NARRE Warren woodchopper Tom Fitzpatrick dazzled audiences during last weekend’s wood chopping event at the Berwick Show.
Despite coming sixth place, the youngster said he was proud of his efforts as he was the youngest competitor in the under-18 boy’s Novice Underhand competition at Akoonah Park.
This was the second time the 11-year-old had competed in the wood chopping competition at the Berwick Show. “I think I did very well but I was a little bit nervous,” he said.
The winner of the event is judged on how quickly they can completely cut through the wood.
It took Tom five minutes, while the 16-year-old winner of the competition did it in three minutes.
Tom’s mother Sue said her son’s passion for woodchopping came after his father, grandfather and great-grandfather also had an interest in the hobby.
“Tom entered his first competition when he was nine years old but had been swinging the axe for a couple of years before that,” she said.
“Every time he does it I get nervous but he knows what he’s doing.”
The Fountain Gate Primary School Grade 6 student practises at his Narre Warren home every week.
“I compete in around 12 competitions a year all over Victoria and would eventually like to travel interstate to compete,” he said.
