The logs were part of about 114 large hardwood logs, and piles of floor boards and beams that were extracted from the former CF Williams building in Peisley Street.

The building was bought by Orange City Council and the structure demolished.

Long-time visitors to Millthorpe will remember the Bulletproof Furniture store that operated out of the site now occupied by Tomolly. 

After a period of working in mining and real estate, it’s the lure of timber, and all its characteristics and differences, that has led him to launch his furniture business once again, and this Sunday he’s opening his workshop and studio space to show people just how wonderful Australian hardwood can be.

“I just love the irregularities and how the timber itself dictates what can be done with it,” he said.

From extra long and sturdy dining tables to shelving and shopfront fit outs, Rod said that the versatility and colour of Australian hardwoods sets it apart from anything else.

“I just love the deep, dark colour of Red Box timber and more so now because it’s so hard to find growing around the district,” he said.

As far as possible from the throw away nature of most furniture, Rod’s tables are made to last, and his family are testimony to the longevity of his pieces.

“We have a coffee table inside made from hardwood and the kids have been using it for drawings, gluing, sticky tape, the full workout,” said Rod’s partner, Kirsty de Vries.

Not only does Rod use recycled timber, he also uses dray wheels and sulky rims to form the legs of the tables.

“I like to use as much recycled product as I can,” he said.

He also uses his own special blend of natural oils to finish the tables.

“You don’t get that depth from varnishes, the natural oils really do sink in and enhance and protect the timber,” he said.

Bulletproof will have an open day this Sunday, January 28 From noon to 3pm at 83 Clover Ridge Road. Head west on the Forest Reefs Road, turn right onto Spring Hill Road then left into Clover Ridge Road.