A place to make and talk in Creswick

IN the coming weeks, you might spot a small group of men enjoying socially-distanced takeaway coffees in the heart of Creswick.

These are the close-knit blokes of the temporarily closed Creswick Men’s Friendship Shed, coordinated by volunteer, Charlie Schembri and supported by the Hepburn Health Service.

“Our Shed is a collection of really amazing guys. We inspire them to make stuff or simply sit down, drink coffee and talk with them. We’re family,” he said.

“Some guys have projects, some make things to raise money for our shed. We always have something different going to keep it fresh. We have new technology to teach the elderly and new people, a 3D printer and computers.

“When people come to our Shed, we have tea and coffee, and it’s like a counselling session. If they’re not well, I can help them get the help they need.”

With 30 members, between 15 and 20 are active when the Bridge Street shed normally opens on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and it’s free to be involved.

From all age groups, with varying abilities, each man has a story, including Mr Schembri.

“In 1999 I had a really bad motorbike accident. I was deeply depressed, I had nothing left,” he said.

“The Men’s Shed gave me friendship, and a way to give back to the community. For some completely socially isolated, I’ve been the only man they have had to talk to.

“The guys have been there for me, too.”

Visit facebook.com/CreswickMensShed for more information and men’s health resources.