Para carves his way to victory

Roscrea woodcarver Paradzai Havatitye is a cut above the rest after taking top prize in an international competition held in Canada this month.

Para spent four days working on the winning piece at the Manitou Beach Chainsaw Carving Festival in Saskatchewan. Titled ‘With a Moo Moo Here and a Moo Moo There’, his sculpture depicted a cow, calf, hen, cat and chickens.

“The piece ‘With a Moo Moo Here and a Moo Moo There’ is inspired by the farming life around Saskatchewan,” said Para. “The land is fertile and full of natural fertiliser. And people, especially farmers, are happy and very welcoming. I feel right at home.”

The annual Manitou Beach Chainsaw Carving Festival attracts some of the world’s most skilled woodcarvers to vie for the prestigious title. The contestants must carve from a block of wood onsite, sand it down and paint it. Para’s creation was awarded overall winner by the festival committee, and it was also voted for the People’s Prize.

The win represents a welcome breakthrough for Para, who has featured in several international woodcarving competitions in recent years. Originally from Zimbabwe and living near Roscrea at Brosna for many years, Para's work can be seen throughout Ireland and abroad. Using a chainsaw, chisel and other hand tools, his notable local creations include the large seat that he carved from the base of an old maracapana tree in the grounds of St Mary of the Rosary Church in Nenagh. He also carved the four symbolic sculptures outside the Lakeside Hotel in Ballina. Para regularly features at shows and craft fairs around the country.

The local woodcarver said he thoroughly enjoyed the competition in Canada and he took the opportunity to thank all concerned for their support.