By LACHLAN MOORHEAD
FOR more than 20 years, the Berwick District Woodworkers have been giving back at Christmas time, and this festive season will be no different.
The local woodworking group will once again be donating their time and extraordinary skills to handcraft toys for Christmas this year.
At their annual Toy Gala Day last weekend the woodworkers provided almost 1000 handcrafted toys to local not-for-profit organisations to distribute to those in need.
The organisations included Cardinia Combined Churches, Casey North Community Information and Support Service, Cranbourne Information and Support Service, Migrant Resource Centre and Windermere Child and Family Services.
“We are so very pleased to be able to continue to help those in need within our local community,” Berwick District Woodworkers president Len Preece said.
“The Toy Gala Day was a fantastic success and one of our hardworking members who has been here for 11 years told me that it was the best one we’ve ever had.
“Thank you to all our outstanding members who put in so much time and effort to ensure we can provide these toys each and every year.”
Narre Warren South MP Judith Graley also praised the generosity of the woodworkers.
“All children deserve to experience the joy of Christmas morning and these amazing wooden toys will bring smiles to many kids who may have otherwise missed out,” Ms Graley said.
“The Woodies are the most generous people, talented too and local families are so fortunate to have our very own Christmas elves to provide presents under the Christmas tree.
“I can’t thank the Berwick Woodworkers enough for their generosity and kindness.
“May they continue their good work for another 20 years.”
