Barreling into business
Recycling wine barrels into outdoor furniture is helping Mawarra’s disability enterprise, Jigsaw Timber Industries to diversify its business and provide meaningful work to employees.
Jigsaw put out a call to businesses recently seeking new work after a large packaging contract ended. Another major contract with the Heyfield-based Australian Sustainable Hardwood mill is also likely to slow when the mill’s timber allocations are reduced this year.
Disability enterprises manager Jeff Tellefson said the new business arrangement with Wine Barrel Warehouse in Drouin had come at the right time.
“Jigsaw will still need to source more work to keep the 10 employees employed. However, this new work recycling wine barrels has created a new line of work for the team and also added a creative aspect to it.”
“The Jigsaw team is currently turning large wine barrels into eskies for use at functions and parties and making wine barrel planters. They are also working on designing a new wine barrel outdoor seat.”
“The work involves washing the wine barrels, cutting them to shape, assembling, sanding and painting.”
“Team leaders and staff have been encouraged to come up with new product lines and variations and they are loving it.”
“The wine barrel products along with kindling and planter boxes can be purchased at Jigsaw.”
Jeff Tellefson said the staff at Jigsaw were all trained in timber and packaging processes.
“Jigsaw has a computerised optimiser saw and has capacity to dock large quantities of timber at varying lengths, provide strapping and packaging on pallets. We package timber off-cuts for firewood and can package boxes, roll posters, and fold brochures.”
Mr Tellefson said Jigsaw was interested in speaking to businesses, organisations or individuals about their specific needs and how Jigsaw might assist them.
“As a not-for-profit disability enterprise, our aim is to build work opportunities to keep people with disabilities employed in jobs that provide a source of income, build skills and return personal satisfaction.”