Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester is working with Latrobe City Council and the Traralgon Men’s Shed to secure funding for a new facility for the popular organisation.
Mr Chester said the current flood-prone site was in constant danger of water damage, and he was exploring funding options at a federal level.
“The men’s shed movement is one of the great organisations across Australia which is providing opportunities for blokes to get together, share a few yarns, and learn new skills as they build practical items,” Mr Chester said.
“There’s no doubt the crew at Traralgon Men’s Shed are very productive and are constantly being sought after to build products such as nesting boxes, park benches and picnic tables. The volunteers also did an awesome job with donations after the Black Summer bushfires.”
Mr Chester has written to Latrobe City Council seeking support to apply for Federal Government grants to construct a new shed at the Traralgon Racecourse precinct.
“I met with Treasurer-Secretary Lyn Matthews and shed members to discuss plans to move the shed to a new facility because of persistent flooding risks at the current site,” Mr Chester said.
“The shed has had floodwater from the Traralgon Creek through the doors a couple of times and needs to move to a purpose-built facility on higher land as soon as possible.
“I will be working with the new Latrobe City Council, once the local elections are finalised, to make this project a priority and help the Traralgon Men’s Shed secure a new home.”
