15/05/2026
EWG and MATAMA rise from the Ashes – Working Bee at the Bimbimbie site on 11th May 2026
….Like the mythical Phoenix the members of Eurobodalla Woodcraft Guild (the Woodies) Eurobodalla Woodies and Moruya Antique Tractor and Machinery Association Inc. (MATAMA) on Monday 11th May commenced clearing work on their leased land at Bimbimbie, next to the Fire Training Centre.
Here they will raise two new workshops, replacing their old building at Mogo which burned to the ground in the 2019/2020 bush fires.
The two groups have after much investigation and research finally cleared all hurdles and solved all problems associated with the site at Bimbimbie.
They have development approval from Council and are currently working on the next stage to enable construction to proceed.
The site, largely clear of vegetation, required a little clean up in one corner and is now ready for work to proceed. The proposed buildings were marked out for the members to visualise the new developments and meet each other, as they will be neighbours again in the near future.
Both groups had for many years operated out of the Original Gold Rush Colony at Mogo. From there they both provided avariety of services to the community.
MATAMA operated a machinery museum, with some of the oldest working farm machinery in the Shire. Many of these items were severely damaged in the blaze but have been faithfully restored by the group in rented premises in Moruya.
The Woodies make a variety of wooden items from furniture to toys for not-for-profit organisations and Charities. They provide training in many aspects of woodwork and are currently working out of 3 containers and like MATAMA are desperate to build their own workshop to further develop their community service.
Both groups assist the community in many ways and provided a safe working environment for all of their members.
They are now seeking financial support via grants and donations so that they can start construction.
Contacts: Steve Shields
MATAMA 0418 439 914
https://matama.weebly.com/
https://matama.weebly.com/bimbimbie-2026.html
Eric Simes
The Woodies
Eurobodalla Woodwork Guild
0418 655 588
