Bandi House Blacksmiths!

8 July 2025

Bandiana Neighbourhood House brings a unique program to build skills and community.

Bandiana Neighbourhood House has been a beacon of support for defence families, offering unique programs that foster community engagement and personal growth. One such program is the Blacksmithing course, which has proven to be a remarkable initiative for the defence community.
Held onsite at the Bandiana Neighbourhood House The Cuppacumbalong Foundation/Tharwa Valley Forge facilitated the blacksmithing workshops, with their 'The Big Black Truck' to provide sizzling mobile blacksmithing fun to the community, allowing adults, parents, and teens to craft their very own campfire tools and knives.

The basic blacksmithing course is designed to bring family members together to work on a project that they will go on to use together, targeted for children aged 12-16 years and adults, making it a perfect family bonding activity. Karen Ramsay, Bandiana Neighbourhood House Manager said, "we are excited to be able to offer our community another visit from the 'Big Black Truck”, knowing how popular it was the first time they attended.

One testimonial from the adult program highlights the significant social benefits of the workshop. “The Blacksmith Workshop was a fantastic practical skill workshop. Participants found that the workshop improved their sense of competence and self-worth through the accomplishment of a new skill, social context, and project artefact. For men particularly, it served as effective therapy, providing a relaxed, non-threatening environment where they could work shoulder to shoulder, share personal stories, and find healing through the process”.

The Bandiana Neighbourhood House committee of management deserves sincere thanks for generously subsidizing the Big Black Blacksmith Truck. Their efforts have made it possible for the community to benefit from this program.

In conclusion, the Bandiana Neighbourhood House Blacksmithing program is more than just a workshop; it is a catalyst for social connection, personal growth, and community support. By bringing people together to learn and create, it fosters a sense of belonging and enhances mental well-being. The positive impact of this program is a testament to the power of community initiatives in making a difference in people's lives.