SHARON Hine is one Cairns woman whose life is being turned around by the humble timber pallet.
Her life has gone from that of a financial adviser, to a talented pallet furniture and candle creator.
“I had a motorcycle accident nine years ago – it was pretty bad and it had a huge impact on me,” Ms Hine said.
“My leg was broken in half, my collarbone was broken in half, I broke my hand and my foot, I’ve had to have my Achilles tendon cut to lengthen my muscles,” she said.
She also believes she suffered a head injury as there are times she “goes blank” which is part of the reason she can’t go back to financial planning.
Years of rehabilitation and a complete change in life direction, led her to Kate Fern and The Power of Pallets.
“These days I volunteer for Sea FM’s The Power of Pallets and I love building furniture – it makes me really happy and I can see the end result of my work.
“The biggest thing for me is Kate. She’s such an inspiration. I’m in my 50s and she’s so encouraging and supportive of me. She’s a great friend and has been a great boss. She seems to have unlimited battery supply that lasts and lasts. I love supporting her and her journey and that’s become my journey as well,” Ms Hine said.
Sharon makes chairs, coffee tables and bedside tables and enjoys using her hands to make something that didn’t exist before. Her facebook page Love Lee Creations + Restorations proudly shows off her wares.
She also now has a part-time job with Cairns Community Administration Support but her mind is always thinking about pallets.
“I guess from the time I wake up, to when I go to bed, I’m thinking pallets and what we can do, I love the whole concept of The Power of Pallets – how it is recycling and giving back to help people in need,” Ms Hine said.
Sea FM’s The Power of Pallets Auction and Cocktail Party will be held on Saturday, October 29 at the Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal. Special guest judge Jamie Durie will be present on the night and selling his latest book “Living Design” at the event.
For further information about the event, to buy tickets or register to make something for the auction, visit The Power of Pallets.
Photo: The Power of Pallets instigator Kate Fern chats with pallet furniture creator Sharon Hine.
