National Men’s Shed Week was celebrated last month, and Member for McEwen Rob Mitchell took the opportunity to visit the Kilmore Men’s Shed.
“Anyone who knows me knows how highly I rate the Men’s Shed program. As Chair of the Parliamentary Friends of Men’s Sheds, I am a passionate supporter of the mental health and wellbeing benefits of the sheds,” he said.
“I have seen firsthand the difference they can make in a man’s life. They are invaluable.
“You don’t have to have a trade or know certain skills to join a men’s shed. It is not all about woodwork and carpentry. So many members often are just there for the social interaction, for a cuppa and a chat and some company.”
The Men’s Shed movement started in Australia in the 1990s and has been gradually enriching men’s lives as it grows.
The Kilmore Men’s Shed is entering its 20th year and memberships have grown to 100 participants.
Men’s Shed President Paul Harvey said they have a 3D printer and tools for metal fabrication and laser engraving, and they also have an orchard and a garden plot.
“We are one of the biggest sheds in Victoria, and we are an information exchange point for members to learn about strokes, prostate cancer, and mental health,” he said.
The Kilmore Men’s Shed is open Tuesday and Thursday from 9.30am–1.30pm.
For more information, email kilmoremensshed@gmail.com.
