Yarram Men’s Shed is among four local men’s sheds in Gippsland to receive a welcome funding boost through the National Shed Development Program.
Local MP Darren Chester has announced the Yarram shed would receive $2575 to buy tools and equipment.
“I’ve been able to visit a number of men’s sheds across Gippsland and am always impressed by the contribution the sheds make to their local community and to the volunteers who attend regularly,” Mr Chester said.
“Men’s sheds make a valuable contribution to the community and there’s a strong sense of camaraderie and mateship among the blokes who give their time to do something for others – and the level of craftsmanship is terrific.
“The benefits of these sheds to men’s health are widely acknowledged. This shed, like others across Gippsland, offer support to local men and friendly, easy-going company.”
Yarram Neighbourhood House established the men’s shed almost 20 years ago. It was run from a rundown shed with second-hand tools.
Yarram Neighbourhood House co-ordinator Cathy Cook said the money would be used to replace well-used aging equipment.
“This is great news for our men’s shed,’ Mrs Cook said. “We will be replacing the old joiner planer and table saw, which have been in the shed since it was first set up.
“Both tools are well past their use-by date, so it will be good to be able to replace these items with more modern ones.”
Over the years, the workspace has expanded and better tools have been bought.
The men’s shed will close its doors for now due to the re-introduction of level three coronavirus restrictions.
But its members are all expected to return to resume work on projects they’d left unfinished or simply enjoy some company when the restrictions ease again.
Men’s sheds in Twin Rivers, Lakes Entrance and Toongabbie also received funding through the same program.
