The project involves Yolngu CFMEU members learning timber craft skills including harvesting, logging, milling, furniture making, truss and frame making and carpentry.
So far a bunk house and a residential dwelling have been completed. Several pieces of furniture have also been made involving Victorian furniture designer Damien Wright. Mark Blackwell, Tasmanian CFMEU FFPD Branch Vice-President is teaching members how to operate the Lucas Mill – a portable mill that can be set up on site.
The mill was set up and operated at the Garma Festival in August and attracted enthusiastic crowds keen to see the process of go to whoa house building at the raw material and milling phase. Forest Works CEO Mike Hartmann was at the Festival and ran a forum on indigenous housing in Australia and how indigenous workers can make their own with the right skill set and support.
Project supporters include Forestry Tasmania, Fairbrother Construction, Gumitji Corporation and the CFMEU.
