you know that actually looks pretty sturdy. he's apparently using treated lumber so no worries about it cracking at least for a couple years anyway. he is also apparently a carpenter by trade as well, only a carpenter has that much in faith in wood i'd think. still pretty sacry though.
Now that's a do it yourselfer! Looks like something out of The Flintstones. I've made a few engine hoists out of wood in the past, but that's got me beat!