A Trentham leadworker who raised thousands of dollars for the RSL after turning bullets into a tribute to the Anzacs is now helping a charity that supports men and women physically or psychologically affected by their service.
Ron Davis recently presented one of his framed red poppies to the director of the Australian War Memorial, Dr Brendan Nelson, after collecting $5000 for RSL branches.
As reported by Star Weekly, Mr Davis turned bullets found in the mud of an abandoned Macedon Ranges shooting range, once used by soldiers preparing for war, into commemorative poppies to mark last year’s Anzac centenary.
With more bullets at his disposal, he decided to craft a new set to raise money for the charity Soldier On, which helps people involved in more recent conflicts.
This time, the poppies are blue, the worldwide colour representing depression.
‘‘They really do need help because, unfortunately, about 300 soldiers from recent conflicts have committed suicide,’’ he said.
‘‘The losses in battle have only been about 40. It’s drastic and the awareness needs to be out there.’’
Mr Davis said $20 from every poppy sold would go to the charity.
Each poppy takes about one and a half hours to make, and Frame Smiths, in High Street, Kyneton, is framing them at cost price.
‘‘I prepare the bullets by getting the muck off the back, heat ’em up and melt the lead,’’ Mr Davis said. ‘‘Then I hammer and shape ’em, and put on spraypaint to finish things off.’’
For more details, email rontheroof@hotmail.com
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