Arthur Woodley - shipwright, boat builder, seaman, ships carpenter, fisherman, precision woodworker, model builder, author, and marine historian.
Arthur Woodley was mentor to many professional and amateur trades and crafts people. He published several books on maritime history and the history of his home town - Crib point. His models and other work can be seen in many of Victoria's maritime museums and he was closely associated with the rescue and restoration of the historic ship "Polly Woodside". Amongst other work, he undertook the restoration of the ship's magnificent timber skylight.
Below are photos of Arthur's last major project - a model stationary steam engine built of wood. The model was built in response to a challenge issued by one of his mates who is an equally skilled fitter and turner. His passion was steam and he said it couldn't be done. Arthur accepted the challenge and the proof of his remarkable arsenel of trade skills is below.
I interviewed Arthur about his life and times shortly before he passed away in May 2009. His message was simple, seek knowledge, learn from your peers and have a go.
Below are photos of Arthur's last major project - a model stationary steam engine built of wood. The model was built in response to a challenge issued by one of his mates who is an equally skilled fitter and turner. His passion was steam and he said it couldn't be done. Arthur accepted the challenge and the proof of his remarkable arsenel of trade skills is below.
I interviewed Arthur about his life and times shortly before he passed away in May 2009. His message was simple, seek knowledge, learn from your peers and have a go.