THE GREAT MOP ROBBERY OF OLD COLLINGWOOD TOWN.
We moved on to bowsprit work next. Working under the assumption that the model would need to be struck down slightly, to fit through a pre-determined size of hole. The bowsprit would need to be removable, otherwise it adds over 48" to the model. We decided to put the join in half way down its length.
A balsa wood spacer was fashioned to keep the bow sprit sections all running parallel to each other, however, what we needed was a tube to slide the bowsprit dowel into. This we did not have. The suggestion that we bring something next time was met by the slightly wild eyed, stir crazy members comments that we want this project finished, not delayed another three days. Following a quick scan around our prison, our eyes fell on a rack full of aluminium mops. Colin said ( yes, it was Colin..) "chop a bit off of one end of one of them!" These are MOD mops, paid for by the tax payer, you in fact. However, we reasoned, we were only recycling, not pinching anything. Nothing would be leaving the base, so what would be the problem?
Colin, with the help of Vic, pulling the mop to bits. The Chairman was not amused, I was taking photos, so not guilty.
Following the other members crime, we proceeded to bond the aluminium tube back in place.
Many thieving hands making light work of the whipping.
Once fully whipped, everything is starting to look very nice. The mop, although shorter by 4", is still fully functional. Consider it the subject of 'budget' cuts