Carpenters Nail Performance

Illawarra Mercury

Thursday August 30, 2007

By JODIE MINUS

A PERFORMANCE by the carpenters has contributed to this year's Southern Stars public schools' music extravaganza.

Sixteen pre-apprentice carpenters from Wollongong TAFE have been busy sawing, hammering and building sets and stage equipment for this year's shows at Wollongong's WIN Entertainment Centre.

Carpentry teacher Patrick Rawnsley said the tradition was established at the first Southern Stars in 2001.

"We started off doing it because we were asked," Mr Rawnsley said.

"But I have a little bit of a vested interest because my daughter has been dancing in Southern Stars since she was in primary school.

"I always go to it every year and it is a great thing for kids to be involved in."

Mr Rawnsley's students built a Play School house, seven small circular stages, scaffolding and other props. But he said their hard work was nothing compared to the teachers and students involved in the performances.

"I can't get over the amount of work that is involved. ... I am also amazed at how professional and talented the children are," he said.

Ticketek has tickets for tomorrow's opening and two shows on Saturday.

© 2007 Illawarra Mercury

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