Gino's legacy honoured
At the age of 94, after the passing of his beloved wife, Gennaro (Gino) took up a hobby that helped him cope while staying connected with family and friends.
The former toolmaker put together hundreds of 3D wooden puzzles, progressing from simple static displays to intricate mechanical models with moving parts.
After Gino passed away in 2023, his children Laura, Antonio and Sabrina wanted to share his legacy with the community.
Laura, a regular at Tiwu Kumangka’s Fun and Fitness classes, reached out to the Blackwood Community Centre about hosting an exhibition of Gino’s works.
Eighteen months later, Gino’s whimsical creations have brought joy to thousands of visitors.
As the exhibition comes to a close, the family is giving the community the chance to take home one of Gino’s creations through a competition.
“We thought it would be nice for them to be given away as it’s what he would have wanted – to bring joy to people,” Laura says. “He was a very generous man who loved giving his pieces to family, friends and anyone who came to care for him.”
Laura says Gino’s work ethic in his later years inspired those around him.
“He always said that the secret to longevity was keeping busy,” she said. “He would be up every morning and straight after breakfast would sit down and start to work, stop for lunch and then work until 5 or 5.30pm.”
To enter the competition, visit the Blackwood Community Centre at Tiwu Kumangka, collect an entry form, write down the number of the piece you want to win and drop it in the entry box.
Please note these wooden models are display pieces only. They contain small parts and are not suitable for children or intended as toys.
Entries close 5pm Friday 2 September.