Ex-public servant builds thriving carpentry business making pet beds
Priscilla Sheppard retired after 27 years in public service and started a woodworking micro-business about five years ago.
The Canberra mum now creates pet beds that double as side tables, made from new and reclaimed timber. Priscilla's latest design is a miniature bus shelter, letting pets sleep inside an iconic local landmark.
Priscilla also makes retro-TV designs, which are popular. Sheppard started after a riding instructor challenged her to make a table from scraps.
She's been making beds for about three years and loses track of time when she works. This weekend she'll sell her creations at the Handmade Market Canberra, among more than 250 stallholders.
- 27
- Years in public service
- 5 years
- Business age
- 3 years
- Pet bed business age
- 250+
- Market stallholders
Why it mattersA genuine second-act career story: creative reinvention is possible at any age, and a small business can thrive on passion and craft.
AustraliaCanberra locals can find her work at the Handmade Market this Saturday and Sunday at Exhibition Park; the event runs 10am to 4pm both days, entry free.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 9 d ago
