A NEW meeting place in Robinvale will enable Aboriginal men to come together around a fire pit, share stories and support each other.
Murray Valley Aboriginal Co-operative (MVAC) has been awarded $80,000 for the Munatunga Men’s Shed, from the Victorian Government’s 2021-22 Men’s Shed Funding Program.
MVAC programs manager Jessica Jasmin said the organisation had an existing shed that would be fitted out for men to utilise.
“Proposed works include erecting another wall which will separate the men’s workspace from this newly created all-in-one office, kitchen and training room,” she said.
“The aim is to build workstation benches and shelving in two of the sections of the shed along with a toilet and wash area.”
Ms Jasmin said it was important for the men to have their own space “where men the can get together, work on common projects and just yarn with each other”.
“It’s a space where the Elders can go and have men’s time, tell stories to the youth and teach them to make artefacts in a cultural safe environment.”
Ms Jasmin said the effects of social isolation had impacted the community.
“This space will create a central location for the men to be able to get together or just call in and have a cuppa with whoever is there with the thought of interrupting a work environment or a planned activity,” she said
“Men tend not to be as social as women so the intent is to create that space that is theirs.
“The environment is designed with the intent to improve men’s health and wellbeing.”
MVAC chief executive officer Paul O’Neill said it was a place the men could work on wood bought back from the bush to create artefacts
“The men’s shed will be a place for Aboriginal men to come together around a fire pit, share stories and support each other,” he said.
