Finding purpose in timber

After decades of corporate success, Neal’s transition into retirement wasn’t quite what he imagined. Much of his career had been spent at Honda, where his days revolved around strategy, spreadsheets, and market performance. He worked hard, but when the job ended, he realised that despite all the achievements, there was nothing he could physically point to as his own. What he longed for was something real, something he could build, hold in his hands, and proudly say he made.

So, he did. His first post-retirement project was a grandfather clock, an intricate masterpiece that took him eight months to complete. That clock was a big deal for Neal, proving to himself he could build something beautiful with his own hands.

Then life changed. Neal began to lose his vision, and woodworking, his newfound passion, became harder to pursue. Tools he once handled with confidence now felt risky and projects were left unfinished. Although he felt mentally strong, not being able to do the things he loved took a different kind of toll.

Discovering the workshop

Everything shifted during an audio group session with Vision Australia, when someone mentioned a woodworking program designed for people with vision loss, sparking Neal’s immediate interest. That moment marked the start of a new and hopeful chapter.

Vision Australia’s woodworking program supports people who are blind or have low vision to build practical skills and independence in a safe and supportive environment. Based in a fully equipped industrial workshop in Kensington, it was the perfect fit for Neal.

Six months into the program, Neal describes the impact of the program as nothing short of life changing: 

Neal’s love of woodworking goes back to his school days. He was just 12 when he made a wooden tray in class, a tray he still uses today. Working with timber has always given him a deep emotional connection. He says the process can be messy, but the satisfaction of creating something with his own hands is worth it every time.

Through Vision Australia’s woodworking program, Neal is not just relearning a skill, he’s reconnecting with the simple joy he first felt as a child. The workshops offer more than practical know-how; they create a space filled with friendship, shared stories, and a renewed sense of purpose. Being surrounded by others facing similar challenges has brought Neal comfort and inspiration. Together, they laugh, encourage, and support one another every step of the way, turning the workshop into a true community.

Beyond the workshop

Neal has also received valuable support beyond woodworking. Vision Australia has helped him stay connected through technology, with home visits and guidance that allow him to continue using email, spreadsheets, and other tools with ease.

In 1976, Neal was writing software and conducting computer analysis in his corporate role. A lot has changed in the word of tech since then, but his love of learning remains. He enjoys the challenge of learning new things, and says that Vision Australia has helped make that continued learning possible.

With every project, Neal is building more than timber. He is rebuilding his confidence, community, and joy. And even as his vision fades, his ability to create something truly meaningful continues to grow.

About the program

Neal’s journey from corporate executive to passionate woodworker is a testament to the transformative power of the Vision Australia woodworking program. The program offers a safe and supportive space to rediscover hands-on skills, boost confidence, and build meaningful connections.

Based in a fully equipped industrial workshop in Kensington, participants like Neal are guided in safely using power tools, improving their coordination, developing new routines, and creating practical, beautifully crafted timber projects they can be proud of.

When it comes to recommending the woodworking program out in Kensington, Neal doesn’t hesitate.