Woodleigh Ethos Alive and Well

At a recent Woodleigh information session for his daughter, Rosie, 1994 alumnus Dan
Ablethorpe reflected on his own experiences at the school. Having spent the early years of
his secondary education at another local school, he immediately noticed the difference at
Woodleigh. With a culture that encouraged deep thought, risk-taking and a focus on the environment
and community, it was a perfect fit, and he flourished, finding ‘his people’ and forging his
path in the welcoming environment.

“It was a bit of a shock to realise school could be like that. I feel so lucky to have had
that opportunity. Woodleigh helped shape who I am today. My wife and I are
keen to provide the same environment for our daughters and it’s great to know that even
30 years later, Woodleigh still fosters the same progressive ethos.
David Baker clearly understands that Woodleigh is a special place, and he’s keen to
keep that spirit alive: developing the individual, encouraging questioning minds and
passionate future leaders."

Dan’s company, Peninsula Recycled Timber, reflects the type of thinking
nurtured at Woodleigh. Supplying and purchasing timber that is exclusively sourced from
sustainable new and recycled sources from around Australia, his company is part of a strong
push within the building and construction industry to ‘do good’ and minimise its impact on
the environment.
Sourcing much of their supply from local buildings, wharves, and bridges ear-marked for demolition,
Peninsula Recycled Timber prevents these beautiful, hard-wearing timbers from ending up in landfill
while simultaneously reducing the need for new forest logging.
The business’s contribution to the Futures Studio and Regenerative Futures Program brings Dan’s journey full
circle and has been a wonderful opportunity to give back to the school that gave him so
much. Providing expertise along with sustainably sourced timbers 30 years after he
graduated has been a rewarding experience, and just in time for his daughters to enjoy
the Woodleigh experience he enjoyed so much.
Peninsula Recycled Timber has become a regular source of inspiration to local and interstate
architects, furniture makers and designers since opening their doors in 2016. Their extensive range,
reliability and know-how have also helped them to become a go-to for builders and renovators,
including those featured on ABC’s Grand Designs Transformations and Channel Nine’s The Block.
Peninsula Recycled Timber’s beautiful showroom and large warehouse offer a unique
selection of premium and hard to find quality Australian hardwood and custom furniture.

Peninsula Recycled Timber is located at 55 Yuilles Rd, Mornington. To find out more,
please head to the website www.peninsularecycledtimber.com.au.