Mr Buckmaster’s passion began at 16 when he played folk music, learning numerous stringed instruments.
He went on to study violin-making in Melbourne and the United Kingdom, before opening his own music shop and taking his expertise across the country.
“I’ve been to probably 50 or 60 towns and cities all around,” he said.
“You name them, I’ve been there.”
Mr Buckmaster has spent decades making and repairing violins, guitars, banjos, mandolins, ukuleles, cellos and — though not as often these days — double basses.
Since retiring, the Melbourne-based craftsman has dedicated himself to travelling across regional Australia, repairing and buying old and damaged stringed instruments.
“It’s nice to get away from the rat race in Melbourne for a while,” he said.
Repairs can cost anywhere from $20 for minor repairs to $600 for major damage.
Motivated to “do it now while I can”, Mr Buckmaster will be spending time in Shepparton — with stints in Echuca, Yarrawonga and Tocumwal — from Wednesday, August 5.
“I just want to be flexible,” he said.
For those seeking a repair or wanting to give away old stringed instruments, contact Mr Buckmaster on 0419 549 841.
