More stable home for shed

By Jessica Howard

Bacchus Marsh Men’s Shed has welcomed close to $30,000 in funding in order to establish a new home.

The local community group are among 23 Men’s Sheds across Victoria to receive funding from the State Government.

Member for Buninyong, Geoff Howard and Member for Melton, Don Nardella attended the Bacchus Marsh shed to announce the $24,640 grant on Thursday (September 14).
The Men’s Shed also received $3,000 from Moorabool Shire Council’s East Moorabool Development Works Fund.

Located at the Laurels in Bacchus Marsh, the shed has been operating for around eight-years, with major projects including the repainting of playground equipment at Darley Neighbourhood House, works at the Blacksmith Cottage and the restoration of bicycles for the Bacchus Marsh Hospital Op Shop.

President, Alex McQuie said the size of the current shed meant the 20-member group often felt limited.

“It’s difficult to conduct all our projects under the one roof. By moving into a bigger space we will be able to conduct bigger projects,” he said.
Following the funding, the Men’s Shed will move into the old stables located at The Laurels.

Mr McQuie said works will include replacing the roof, relining the walls and installing hanging power points.

He said he hoped to see the project come to completion in around a month.

Member for Buninyong, Geoff Howard said he was privileged to have met many “shedders” across the region.

“Men’s sheds are a great place for fellas to get together and share skills and advice, while actively participating in their community,” he said.

“While it’s somewhat natural for women to get together and talk and connect, it is not so much for men. This shed is a great place for men to get together and have a healthy chat while making social connections.

Mr Howard said converting the disused stables into a new workshop will provide a functional space for members to continue working on projects that benefit the community.
“I look forward to coming back when the old stables are redeveloped”.

Victorian Men’s Shed Association committee member, Bob Forde congratulated the Bacchus Marsh men on their fantastic work in supporting the community.

“It has been wonderful to watch the membership here grow over the past years and we thank you for your efforts and wish you the best of luck for the future”.

The Bacchus Marsh Men’s Shed is located at The Laurels, 229 Main Street Bacchus Marsh. For more information, visit http://www.thelaurels.org.au/groups/mens.