THE Allan Labor Government has announced the latest round of the Men’s Shed Funding Program, aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of communities across Victoria. Among the 28 Men’s Sheds to receive a grant are the Leongatha Men’s Shed and the Venus Bay Tarwin Lower and District Men’s Shed.
The Leongatha Men’s Shed, under the South Gippsland Shire Council, will receive a grant of $21,921.
The $21,921 will go towards solar panels on the roof and security screens on the doors and windows.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to get it and it’s a bit of icing on the cake,” President Max Wood said of the grant, noting there had been a couple of break-ins recently, although fortunately no major loss or damage.
Mr Wood is unsure the exact savings from the solar panels but acknowledges “it’s going to assist”, especially with the recent installation of a large dust extraction system.
The Venus Bay Tarwin Lower and District Men’s Shed, also under the South Gippsland Shire Council, will receive a substantial grant of $64,260, for a 12x5 metre extension to an existing shed.
“Membership is going crazy at the moment – 53 members in the same community,” Venus Bay Tarwin Lower and District Men’s Shed
president John Hyett said.
“We need more social space and that is what this funding will go towards.”
The Men’s Shed is also speaking with local community groups exploring how they can share the new space which will include a dedicated office/meeting area.
Open Wednesday and Saturday from 10am to 1pm people can support the Men’s Shed with a selection of locally made wooden goods in their little shop at 190 Lees Road, Venus Bay.
Men’s Sheds provide a welcoming place for people to connect, socialise, and work on common projects together. They play a crucial role in improving the mental health of their members by reducing social isolation and promoting inclusion. Members share their skills, learn new ones, and make new mates in their local area.
The members of these sheds support their local communities in various ways, including running first-aid courses, making toys for children, and making equipment for community service organisations like the Country Fire Authority.
The Labor Government has proudly provided 487 grants to Men’s Sheds since 2015, benefiting more than 360 communities across Victoria. For more information and to view the full list of grant recipients, visit providers.dffh.vic.gov.au/mens-shed-program.
