Changing Australia: Glen Rundell and protecting rare trades

In this episode of Radio National Breakfast's 'Changing Australia,' host Sally engages with Glenn Rundle, a former police officer and plumber turned master chairmaker, who is on a mission to preserve traditional crafts in Australia. Glenn shares how his journey into woodworking began after selling his motorbike to fund a transformative trip to Tennessee to learn Windsor chairmaking from Curtis Buchanan, the 'grand master' of the craft. Inspired by the craftsmanship and sustainability of hand-made furniture, Glenn and his wife Lisa launched the Lost Trades Fair in Victoria, bringing together isolated artisans to showcase their skills. The event, which started with a modest goal of 500 attendees, drew over 7,500 people in its first year, reflecting a growing public desire for durable, beautiful, and meaningful objects in an age of disposable consumerism. Glenn emphasizes the long-term value of handcrafted furniture—such as his chairs, which come with a lifetime guarantee and are designed to outlive their makers—challenging the false economy of cheap, mass-produced goods. He draws parallels to other durable items like work boots that can be repaired and reused for decades, advocating for a cultural shift toward valuing quality, craftsmanship, and sustainability over convenience and cost.