City plans new home for Grovedale Men’s Shed

THE City of Greater Geelong council has agreed in principle to make Sovereign Drive Sports Reserve in Armstrong Creek West the new home for Grovedale Men’s Shed.

The city plans to develop a community shed and garden on the site that will be used by multiple groups.

While the final decision will be subject to further site analysis and community consultation, Kardinia Ward councillor Bruce Harwood said it was a positive step forwards for the group.

“This is terrific news for the Grovedale Men’s Shed, which has been meeting at temporary sites over the years.

“This grassroots group gives local men a chance to come together, connect and develop skills. The program does fantastic things for mental health, as many of the men are retired or on their own.”

The lack of affordable and accessible “maker spaces” available in the Greater Geelong region was highlighted as an issue during the community consultation phase of the city’s Social Infrastructure Plan 2020.

Grovedale Men’s Shed’s Merv Poyner said the lack of an appropriate space for the group has inhibited its growth.

“We’ve had three moves in about six years – going from the old hangar at Villawood; down to the back of Club Armstrong, which is also in Villawood; and then out to Foundation 61.

“Unfortunately because we’ve been in small areas each time, we can’t really take too many more people. If we had a bigger area, I reckon we could double our size within 12 months.”

There are about 30 members in the group now.

Mr Poyner said Sovereign Drive Sports Reserve would a great spot for the group to be based in.

“It’s an ideal set up if we go in with the community garden people that are looking to find a spot as well. The block of land is ideal for us and them. So that’s what we’re working towards.”

The council has referred the matter to the 2020-21 Budget process for consideration.