A chance encounter with the ancient trade of stonemasonry has grown into a full-blown obsession – and a promising career – for an Armidale father-of-two.
Travis Stahlhut, 28, a proud Karriyarra, Ngarluma, Yawuru and Nyul Nyul man, was working as a plumbing labourer when he came to the attention of a stonemasonry business owner, who offered him an apprenticeship.
Mr Stahlhut leapt at the opportunity, and is now a third-year apprentice at Piddington’s Funeral Home, working on the creation, installation and repair of headstones and memorials.
It comes as the New England and North West celebrate Naidoc Week, with this year’s theme celebrating the achievements of the past while looking to an equitable future ahead.
An ageing workforce and intense competition for skilled labour in the construction industry has contributed to a growing shortage of stonemasons nationally. TAFE NSW Miller, the only training organisation in NSW to teach the trade, is addressing the shortage by training the next generation of stonemasons.
“It’s such a satisfying career and knowing you’re helping families during a difficult time makes it even more special,” Mr Stahlhut said.
“You start with a piece of rock and you cut and polish it to the point it’s a monument to someone’s memory.
“I wasn’t sure what to expect at first but it’s become an obsession for me; I want to be the best at it I can be.
The father of two attends TAFE NSW Miller in seven one-week blocks annually, and said it had broadened his skill set and industry knowledge.
“Being able to learn things that aren’t typically part of my job, like using a hammer and chisel on sandstone, has been really valuable,” he said.
Mr Stahlhut said stonemasonry was now a “career for life”, and he hopes to eventually open his own business.
TAFE NSW Miller Head Teacher of Stonemasonry Michael Landers said TAFE NSW stonemasonry graduates like Mr Stahlhut were in such high demand, he regularly fielded calls from employers.
“It’s a great industry and one that many TAFE NSW graduates have built rewarding careers in,” Mr Landers said.
“It’s extremely gratifying to create things with your hands that will last longer than you do and knowing you can help preserve these magnificent old buildings or help a grieving family cherish the memory of loved ones.”
According to Jobs and Skills Australia, there are about 27,100 stonemasons employed nationally, with median weekly earnings of $1597.
Read all the way through to the end of the story? So did lots of other people. Advertise with New England Times to reach New England locals who are interested and engaged. Find out more here.