ON Tuesday the public is invited to visit the Swan Hill Men’s Shed to see the fabulous work the local group produces.
The shed will be hosting its Open Day from 10am-1pm Tuesday at 98-100 Gray Street, Swan Hill.
Members of the public are invited to attend the event, located on the grounds of Swan Hill Neighbourhood House.
Three keen members are mechanical engineer Bob Darby, cabinet maker Ken Barry and one of the founders of Bakker and Glen, Kevin Glen.
The trio were busy selling raffle tickets for the club on the weekend, and they explained that they are working towards upgrading their tools.
The men will be on hand on Tuesday to show prospective members around the workshop and to welcome young and old to see their projects.
The day supported by funding from the Australian Men’s Shed Association will allow visitors to get a taste of the ingenious work and fun times the group facilitates.
Lunch will be provided with a bag of goodies available for the first 20 through the doors, with the raffle drawn at 12.30pm.
The winner will take home a beautifully handcrafted rocking horse, with two other wooden toys for second and third prize.
Swan Hill Neighbourhood House manager Sarina Kelly said these would make ideal presents with Christmas just around the corner.
There are more than 360 sheds in Victoria and these hubs offer both a practical and social function.
Ms Kelly explains that around eight members in Swan Hill work on an array of projects from woodwork on objects like toys to bird nesting boxes, to welding and metal work.
“The social connection is huge – it’s a point and a place to connect,” Ms Kelly said.
“You don’t have to make things, you can just chat.”
The group has also received funding from the Commonwealth Bank and the Swan Hill Rural City Council to keep up with their creativity, and some members have also contributed towards the Neighbourhood House’s new repair cafe.
Those who cannot make the open day can still drop in on Tuesdays and Fridays, from 9am-12.30pm. Membership is $25 annually and visitors are always welcome for a cuppa and a chat.
For more information, call 5032 1549.
– Lucy Williams
