Crosses resurrected from SW cathedral's demolition

For the past decade, Max Pahl has been preserving part of Bunbury's history and raising money at the same time.

The Dalyellup retiree has been making crucifixes from wood he salvaged after St Patrick's Cathedral was demolished following a 2005 tornado.

He has lost count of how many crucifixes have been made since - other than saying "hundreds" - and Bunbury Catholic parish manager Ian Lewis estimates at least $70,000 has been raised for the church from sales.

Pieces of Bunbury's history now reside in places including Italy, the Philippines and England.

Mr Pahl's crucifixes also hang in the rooms of Bunbury's St John of God hospital.

His journey into making the crucifixes, which will soon be over as the salvaged wood has nearly run out, began by chance after the previous cathedral's demolition.

"I was part of the clean-up party, picked up a piece of wood and said I would make a cross out of it," Mr Pahl said.

"The other workers said they wanted one and then suddenly, everyone wanted one."

After securing more wood from pews and beams, it began a long journey for the handyman - who also had a helping hand, with some advice from a then-neighbour with woodworking skills.

"It's really got to me and I've spent most of my time out in the shed - I've rather enjoyed it," Mr Pahl said.

Deacon Lewis said Mr Pahl was a very good example of the church's stewardship program, which encourages people to use their time and talents.

"These crucifixes mean a lot to people and that's why it has been so successful," he said.

The remaining crucifixes can be bought, starting at $45 each, by contacting the parish office.

"I was part of the clean-up party, picked up a piece of wood and said I would make a cross out of it" - Max Pahl