Happenings at the last meeting
John Whalley, Dennis McKeegan and Graham Morris gave a presentation on the Dromana Mens Shed
There are now more than 325 sheds in Victoria and over 1000 in Australia. The sheds are about the sharing of members interests and allowing members to work on community projects and their own projects. There are about 75 members who work with tuition from technical leaders in the use of equipment to construct items in wood and metal. The shed is well-resourced; they have recently installed a dust extraction system. The shed is open each week on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Some of the community projects include rebuilding picnic tables and seats, making bench seats and rubbish bins for the Golf club, supplying 100s of animal cut-outs for us, refurbishing bikes that are collected by a sponsor VinsBins. Rocking horses and refurbish school desks are later sold to raise funds.
They have outings away from the shed and they over the last 2 years have hosted shedders big day out with more than 300 members from around the state.
They have good support and assistance from the Council and local businesses. In the early years the Bunnings barbeques were the basis of their funding. Last year the shed was extended to accommodate new members, storage and equipment and a cost of $45,000. A new fitness area will be installed in the extension through a grant of $7,000. But first they need to fund the extension. They have about half the funds and expect to raise the remainder in the next 12 months.
Tyrell had a coffee pot restored by the men’s shed and speaks highly of their work.
Lynne asked if they have made coffins, They have made a couple of coffins, but they are reasonable expensive to do so.
Bob: Spoke about the Rotary shine-on awards and we should consider possible awardees. Regarding the shipping containers for the homeless, Bob sent a message to Shire Councillors, who were very supportive, but said that there could be some significant hurdles to solve. There about 600 people who sleep rough each night. Tony mention that the temporary accommodation for mining accommodation might be suitable.
Any members wishing to support the Mill project should send an email to Rick.
Ray has had an infusion to support him immune system and is feeling ok. Elaine is having an issue with asthma. Otherwise they are OK. We all hope that the treatments are successful.
Margaret Booth is up and down due to changes in the weather and are hoping for good results tomorrow.