Starting in 2006, the Australian Men’s Shed Association now represents over 650 sheds across Australia, providing a vital resource for men and contributing to healthier communities in general.
The Sheds all operate slightly differently, depending on the needs of the men in the area. For example, in Bamaga, on the tip of the Cape York Peninsula, a recently opened Men’s Shed serves five remote communities, offering mainly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men the chance to learn new skills and increase their employment opportunities.
Monash Men’s Shed, in the heart of Melbourne’s Glen Waverley, provides a venue for local men to develop friendships, skills and an increased awareness of men’s health issues. Opening just over a year ago, the Monash Shed celebrated its anniversary with 150 guests, including the Australian Men’s Shed Association patron, Tim Mathieson, City of Monash Mayor, Stefanie Perri, and Monash Men’s Shed patron, Councillor Greg Male.
In the year since opening its doors, Monash Men’s Shed has had a significant impact on the area in terms of raising awareness about men’s health. Councillor Perri says, “Our Men’s Shed now has almost 90 members and, in its first year, these members have had the opportunity to become mates, learn new skills and most importantly discuss men’s health issues.”
Many of the Men’s Sheds across Australia receive support and financial assistance from their local councils. Monash City Council purchased the Men’s Shed building in 2009 and has provided more than $135,000 in cash and project management to get the Shed up and running. The State Government contributed to the cost of renovations inside the Shed, and local community groups and businesses have also provided support.
The first anniversary of the Monash Men’s Shed was an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of one particular Shed, and to highlight the nationwide role of the Sheds in supporting men and promoting men’s health awareness. Monash Men’s Shed patron Councillor Male said he was delighted to have been involved with the Shed since the planning stages and with its achievements in the first year. “Quite simply, the men at the Shed are all great blokes and are making the most of our wonderful community facility.”
