Pilot steamer John Oxley is held together by '000s of steel rivets inserted at orange heat and hammered to a domed head. The work is hot but you are working in the cool harbour breezes of Rozelle Bay with iced water always at hand. The riveters are a happy band of workers with never a harsh word or frosty clique or precious politicking.

Qualifications not necessary, as tuition is given and overseeing is constant. This is work for a person showing pride in their finish and the desire to be involved in an important Heritage restoration. You would be joining the Fleet at a dynamic and advanced stage of the Oxley restoration where we have a wide range of interesting projects to be completed. Some of this work is a bit repetitive, but keen volunteers will be encouraged to help with other metalworking-related tasks as we progress.

Access is by Light Rail, frequent 500-series bus routes on Victoria Road and Town Hall across Anzac Bridge, or limited dedicated member-only car parking.

Have a look at this on Youtube youtube.com/watch?v=6mbAgLEEKtg

Next step: a cup of tea in the noisy and friendly meal room