‘Remarkable’: Meet the woodworking hobbyist defying odds

He has never experienced what it’s like to see or hear, but knows more about the world than most. Here’s how this extraordinary Toowoomba man creates unique pieces through the sense of touch.

Every day when Kerrod Monaghan wakes up, he enjoys a hearty breakfast with a cup of tea, before starting a new project in his woodworking shed.

Born with Charcot Marie Tooth Disease – a genetic condition which affects the nervous system, Kerrod has never had full vision or hearing and now uses a wheelchair.

But not even this can keep the determined 67-year-old down.

YellowBridge support worker Shaie Harbridge with Kerrod Monaghan who lives with Charcot Marie Tooth Disease. Picture: Rhylea Millar

A true country boy at heart, Kerrod who grew up on a farm in Warwick with his loving family moved to Toowoomba years ago, but never lost his passion for woodworking.

YellowBridge disability support worker Shaie Harbridge has been working with Kerrod for the past two years and said he constantly inspired her.

Communicating with him through tactile signing, the support worker described him as an independent man of wisdom who has the memory of a hawk.

YellowBridge support worker Shaie Harbridge with Kerrod Monaghan who lives with Charcot Marie Tooth Disease. Picture: Rhylea Millar

“Once you break down that barrier of communication, you see how well educated he is and how much he knows about the world,” Ms Harbridge said.

“(Supporting Kerrod) has given me a completely new outlook on life and it’s a real credit to his family and the support team he’s had over the years.”

With a shed full of handmade creations, Kerrod’s work varies from treasure chests and tool boxes to beer caddies, Christmas ornaments and tables and chairs.

Kerrod who designs every item himself and often critiques the final product or suggests improvements through touch, only receives assistance with drilling and screwing pieces together.

YellowBridge support worker Shaie Harbridge with Kerrod Monaghan who lives with Charcot Marie Tooth Disease. Picture: Rhylea Millar

Ms Harbridge said his love for woodworking came from years of helping his mum on their family farm, when he was a young boy.

She said one of her favourite pieces was his interpretation of a bus stop – a timber chair with overhead shelter.

“When we go on walks, we feel everything and then he visualises a project in his head and recreates it.”

Kerrod’s creations are available to purchase through YellowBridge social enterprise Collectables boutique.