“How many people can say they built a catamaran from pallets and recycled materials?”
In a backyard in Raceview sits a big blue boat, a boat made by resident Brett Lay.
Dubbed Svrecycleme, measuring eight meters long and made from recycled products, construction of the boat is now in its fourth year, with Lay now putting the call out to get more people involved in the project.
“The boat idea had always been there, as well as being very conscious of recycling I put the two together to show how we can use recycled materials for anything,” Mr Lay said.
The story began back in late 2019, Mr Lay and his wife wanted to move to Australia from his native New Zealand to be closer to family.
At the time, he was 52 years old and suffering from numerous illnesses, needing the aid of a walking stick when he felt weak and a wheelchair when he was unable to stand independently.
“The move has been great for us,” he said.
“Australia has many great support organisations, beautiful weather, and lovely people.
“My health has improved with more sunshine and the doctors here have helped me with my goals.”
He and his wife wanted a boat to enjoy their time with but did not have the money, as Mr Lay said.
“I decided to think outside the square to see how I can build a boat,” he said.
“I have always wanted to use recycle materials and show people what can be done using recycled materials.
“I contacted Bunnings, and they said that I could use as many pallets as I want, then I contacted a company called cold-design and they sponsored me with fiberglass resin and paint.
“I have actually lost count of how many pallets because some of the wood could not be used.
“Maybe 110 pallets or there abouts.” He now wants to get more people involved in the project. As the sun sets on another day, Brett would love for more people to join him and be a part of the great project of the blue boat of Raceview.
Brett can be contacted on [email protected]
