FORGET the North Pole - Santa's little helpers are busy weaving their magic in workshops across Lake Macquarie in preparation for the Christmas rush.
Hundreds of Men's Shed "elves" have spent months crafting stockpiles of traditional children's toys for the festive season.
Beds and high-chairs for dolls, wooden cars, trucks and planes, windmills and puzzles are among the favourites, with many donated to preschools and community groups. Redhead Men's Shed has been a hive of activity as more than 60 members saw, carve, whittle, glue, weld and polish creations that will make children's wishes come true on December 25.
President Ken Ferguson said making toys and other things for local preschools and charities was a tremendous source of satisfaction.
"It's a way for blokes to get together and do things without necessarily going to the pub," Mr Ferguson said. "We've got former business owners, coal miners, tradesmen ... you meet a whole range of people you'd never have met otherwise."
Most Men's Sheds sell wares direct from their premises. Redhead's is open four days a week.
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