Bellarine Woodworkers secure $8,000

THE Bellarine Woodworkers will share in $860,000 from the Victorian Government’s Men’s Shed Funding Program.

As part of the grants, the local group will receive $8,000 to upgrade some of the equipment used in projects that benefit local organisations.

Bellarine Woodworkers president Bruce Sibson said with the grant money, they will improve the safety and efficiency of their equipment.

“We put in for some vacuum cleaners that attach to the sanders, so we don’t get dust everywhere in the shed and a sawstop saw, which when you put your finger in, the blade disappears and doesn’t cut your fingers,” he said.

The Bellarine Woodworkers is part of the Men’s Shed Association, however, is a fully inclusive group, welcoming more than 30 women into the club. As a woodworking club only, the group aims to provide an environment for people who do not have the space or equipment at home for the hobby.

Mr Sibson said funding like this makes a lot of difference for clubs, with regular funds often raised by members

“[The] money we operate on comes from membership fees per year and each time the person works in the workshop, they pay a small sum to cover consumables that they use. A lot of our funding comes from Bunnings, last year we did six Bunnings barbecues and that gives us a bit, we run some raffles, we have an annual exhibition. We run pretty close to the wire, so a grant like this is especially important for us.”

The funding program has delivered more than 500 grants across Victoria, with the latest round supporting 31 clubs in building new spaces, upgrading facilities and purchasing new equipment.

Under the grants, Men’s Sheds can apply for the construction of a new shed, the refurbishment, extension, or upgrade of an existing shed or the purchase of major equipment.

“Men’s sheds are at the heart of so many communities – they’re where people come together, build friendships and find a sense of community,” Minister for Carers and Volunteers Ros Spence said.

“Every upgrade and new space means more opportunities for members to share skills, learn from each other and make a difference locally.”

For more information and the full list of recipients, head to vic.gov.au/mens-shed-funding-program