Waratah Lodge resident, 93-year-old Alan Donchi, makes AFL ladders with Orbost Men’s Shed, raising funds and receiving recognition from the Sydney Swans.
Residents of Orbost have long admired Alan Donchi’s woodworking skills, but his latest endeavour with the Orbost Men’s Shed has truly captured the hearts of others further afield.
Alan, a resident of Waratah Lodge and a devoted fan of the Sydney Swans, has been creating intricately designed wooden AFL ladders with the help of the Orbost Men’s Shed.
In a touching twist to the tale, Laura Farley, staff member at Orbost Regional Health, decided to write a letter on Alan’s behalf to his beloved Swans.
Enclosed with the letter was a photograph of Alan proudly displaying one of his ladders.
The letter found its way to the Sydney Swans, who responded in the most heartwarming fashion.
In return, Alan received a fully signed team jersey, along with a Swans hat and scarf.
The surprise left Alan beaming with joy, “over the moon” in fact, as the football fan graciously accepted the mementos from his favourite team.
Inspired by the recognition, Alan has gone on to create more than 12 AFL ladder boards, all handcrafted with care.
The proceeds from his work have been donated to the Orbost Men’s Shed, supporting their projects and initiatives.
One of Alan’s most prized creations, a board crafted from Jarrah and Mountain Ash, will soon be making its way to the Sydney Swans’ headquarters, where it will be proudly displayed later this month.
