Push for women’s shed gaining ground

BENDIGO Region Women’s Shed Inc is progressing steadily towards building its own headquarters at Albert Roy Reserve in Eaglehawk.

The organisation received a $9000 grant from the City of Greater Bendigo in May.

The new shed will provide a safe and supportive space for women to gather, socialise, undertake activities, learn new skills and gain knowledge on subjects that impact their safety, health and wellbeing.

The COGB funding is being used to develop a business case for the build.

As part of putting the business case together, the group is holding an information session next Tuesday with a consultant in attendance and is inviting interested parties to come and share their thoughts regarding the project.

Bendigo Region Women’s Shed vice-president Sally Hutchison said the whole concept of the shed is that it’s a designated facility for women – a safe space.

“There’s a lot of women in Bendigo who’ve lost their partners, a lot living alone. This would give them a variety of options for connection,” she said.

“We see it as equally as important for women’s health in that context, having women making connections with each other.”

Regarding the upcoming catch-up, president Cathleen Farrelly said the group is seeking feedback from women in the community about what they see as important in such a facility.

“Come and tell us. Is it the opening hours? Are there other things that you want? What is it you see as important and why do you see it as important?” she said.

“If you like the sound of a women’s shed, come along and tell us what you think it should be.”

The information session takes place on Tuesday 5 August from 7.30pm to 9pm at the Eaglehawk Tennis Centre Hall, 15 Crowther Street, Eaglehawk.

Confirm your attendance on the group’s Facebook page.