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Apprentice stonemasons repair vandalised headstones
TAFE Queensland stonemasonry apprentices are repairing tombstones damaged in a vandalism incident at a Toowoomba cemetery that left 150 tombstones broken.
TAFE Queensland stonemasonry apprentices are contributing to a valuable social cause this year, restoring and/or recreating tombstones damaged in a vandalism incident at a Toowoomba cemetery that left 150 tombstones broken.
Repair processes for the first group of headstones has begun, with the simplest jobs selected first to ensure families involved are comfortable with the quality of repair carried out by the apprentices.
Headstones were damaged in various ways, and TAFE Queensland has taken possession of the first pieces for repair.
TAFE Queensland stonemasonry teacher Steve Sullivan says the apprentices are keen to contribute to the community project, and that their dedication and work quality is of the required, high standard.
“We have selected the simplest repairs to start with, as approved by the families involved, to ensure they are comfortable with the quality of work," Mr Sullivan said.
"I have complete faith in our apprentices, and of course will be closely monitoring and guiding their progress. They have already been applying themselves to the challenge with respect and pride.”
Stonemasonry teacher Steve Sullivan discusses repairs required with an apprentice.
"The apprentices are proud to be part of a larger, meaningful project, and to contribute to the lasting memories those effected will have of their loved ones' memorials," he said.
One apprentice working on the vandalised headstones, Harry Griffin, said he was proud to contribute to something so meaningful while at TAFE, and that the experience had opened his eyes to a new sector of his industry.
"I usually work in the residential sector, doing kitchen benchtops and other items, but I've taken on the elective monumental subject to get wider experience," Mr Griffin said.
"This project has made me realise how meaningful this trade can be, and I'm now interested in pursuing this work after my apprenticeship. It makes me proud to contribute to how a family remembers their loved one, and I'm making sure I do the best work I can for these families," he said.
TAFE Queensland – Skillstech General Manager said it was a clear example of TAFE Queensland enriching its local communities through training.
“TAFE Queensland is honoured to be involved in this project. Any chance we get to combine hands-on training with helping Queensland communities is one we will gladly take," Mr Gates said.
"In addition to servicing the community and restoring the dignity of the owners of these tombstones, this will give apprentice stonemasons valuable skills in a niche, but critical, area of their trade," he said.