There is something truly magical about watching a master blacksmith at work. How effortlessly they turn a plain metal bar, through the age-old techniques of heat, hammer, anvil and flying sparks, into something that is both practical and beautiful.

And, with so many talented artists and craftspeople calling the Southern Downs home, it is no surprise that we can boast our own blacksmiths here too - one being Tim Minogue, Master Farrier, blacksmith and owner of Glenvale Forge, Warwick.

Tim’s craftsmanship and attention to detail can be seen in the new gates he recently completed for the Palmerin Street entrance at the Catholic Church, Warwick. Hand crafted using traditional metal-joinery techniques to ensure they exactly matched the originals, with the task complicated even further due to having to convert today’s metric sized steel to match the imperial measurements of the existing gates.

In addition to making ornamental gates of all sizes, Tim also produces an array of beautifully-crafted hand-forged items including fire sets, ornate brackets and property signs and also makes bespoke pieces to order. He also crafts unique, high-quality bits and spurs, including custom designs.

As with blacksmiths throughout time, Tim is kept very busy with the farriery side of the business,  shoeing horses, ponies, donkeys and mules the traditional way, with the hot horseshoe used to sear a path in the hoof before fitting. He also works closely with local vets to undertake remedial equine hoof care, crafting and fitting specialised shoes to repair injuries, correct leg abnormalities in foals and address issues such as laminitis. His skills have seen him chosen to be Official Farrier at all three Polocrosse World Cups held in Warwick.

A passion for blacksmithing began for Tim after training as a farrier led to an interest in hot shoeing. With a desire to learn from the best in the business, he honed his skills working alongside mentors both in Australia and the USA, before gaining his qualifications 22 years ago. Tim is proud to be keeping the blacksmithing tradition alive and is passionate about further expanding his knowledge and continuing to learn new skills and techniques. 

“I believe in always trying to better yourself and never be complacent with second best,” Tim said.   

With such a passion and dedication to his craft, it is no surprise that his talents have been showcased in numerous blacksmithing competitions, including placings for his work at the Ekka and competing in the crowd-pleasing team hot-shoeing events at the annual Gatton Heavy Horse Field Day.     Further information on the farrier and blacksmithing services offered by Glenvale Forge can be found on their Facebook page or by contacting Tim Minogue on 0409 721 445.