MP visit begins men’s shed extension celebrations

THE approaching Christmas season will be extra-festive for members of the Bannockburn and District Men’s Shed as they plan for their long-awaited extension to take shape.

They received word last month that a grant of more than $45,000 through the State Government’s 2025-26 Men’s Shed Funding Program had been approved, which meant the extension could proceed.

Buoyed by the news, the shed invited Member for Geelong Christine Couzens to its sausage sizzle on Thursday last week as a gesture of gratitude for the funding, during which the MP was shown around the facility and chatted with members.

Ms Couzens said it was the first time she had visited the shed.

“We should be really proud of the work they’re doing here,” she said.

“That social engagement is always important, but also what they’re doing for the community and the items they’re making like the Christmas trees and the planter boxes.

“So it all contributes to the community.”

Ms Couzens said a stronger shed in Bannockburn would mean a stronger community.

“Our investment makes sure members can keep learning, sharing and supporting one another for years to come,” she said.

“With the growth of Bannockburn and surrounds this is an investment that is much needed to support the growing community.”

Shed president Syd McConachy said the Golden Plains Shire would act as project manager for the extension, which is an addition to the existing building’s southern end.

It will be 10 metres long and 12 metres wide and will be blended with the existing building’s appearance.

Mr McConachy said once the grant of $45,466 lands in the organisation’s bank account, the next step will be the appointment of a builder.

He said the builder will handle planning permit paperwork, which he described as just a formality.

“It will free up more space for the woodworking area, which has become too clogged,” Mr McConachy said of the extension.

“It will ease congestion in that room.”

The addition will possibly host metalworking activities and will provide extra storage space.

Mr McConachy said he hoped to have the extension built and ready for use by this time next year, if not sooner.

The Men’s Shed Funding Program has delivered more than 500 grants across Victoria in a partnership with the Victorian Men’s Shed Association.

The round in which the Bannockburn shed was successful distributed $860,000 to 31 sheds for use in building new spaces, upgrading equipment and buying new equipment.