Jon,
See if this has any merit:
1. Remove the mesh around the braces and wrap a length of
chain around the juncture of the braces and the head.
2. Run a bolt through the link at one end of the chain and
the link closest to it coming from the other direction. The
links would be facing each other like this: / \
and the bolt would go through them like this: -/-\-
.
3. Tighten the bolt to tighten the chain. With ten braces
the load should be spread out enough to bear the load without
damage.
4. Wrap the tail of the chain around a lever (iron bar,
oak 2x4, whatever) to turn the assembly.
If the hook at the end of the chain falls at the right
position, you may be able to dispense with the bolt, wrap the
chain around twice and go for it. This might work or it might
be a worthy of discard.
Good luck!
Jim