Innovative firewood project raises $8,000 for country cancer foundation

1 October 2025

Led by Overseer Tracy John, the team of inmates worked together to cut, split, and stack fallen timber from the centre’s 4000-acre property in NSW’s Riverina region.

The firewood was then sold to staff, with every dollar of the proceeds donated to the Tumbarumba branch of Can Assist, which provides vital support to locals undergoing cancer treatment.

“We thought, there’s so much wood on the ground, why not clean up the paddocks, cut it, and sell it,” Ms John said.

“Can Assist do incredible work helping people with transport, treatment and support when they have cancer. And they’re not government funded.”

The effort saw the inmates produce 192 bins of firewood – a massive 86 tonnes in total. Some split timber by hand for an added workout, while others used mechanical splitters or operated the chainsaw.

When the funds were handed over at a recent morning tea, representatives of Can Assist were deeply moved.

“They were so appreciative they were almost in tears,” Ms John said.

Beyond supporting a good cause, the project has given the inmates practical skills and a strong sense of purpose.

“It teaches them about giving back to the community – and they’re all for that,” Ms John said.

With next year’s firewood already being prepared, the Mannus crew is determined to keep the project going and continue helping locals battling cancer – one log at a time.