Upwey Men’s Shed is working on multiple fronts to find a new home for their workshop and operations, with a lack of public space in Upwey creating challenges despite underutilised community facilities in the area.
Members of the Men’s Shed are looking at interim options for establishing a workshop with an existing facility before a permanent workshop is built.
With the majority of funds to build the shed having been raised and donated tools abundant, the members are finding it difficult to accommodate any more offers of tools and equipment because of a lack of storage space.
Men’s Shed president Gerran Wright said many people don’t know a Men’s Shed is dependent on the interests of its members.
“Particularly important is providing an opportunity to meet with other members over a coffee or working on a project to provide companionship and support each other when needed,” he said.
“Some people mistakenly think we just get together to drink alcohol which is definitely not what we do. We prohibit alcohol at our meetings with the exception of occasionally going out for lunch at a hotel or at our annual Christmas party at the RSL.”
Shed members are continuing to fundraise, work on projects for community groups and undertake get-togethers while the search for a suitable location continues.
So far in 2022, the Upwey Men’s Shed has conducted a fully booked first aid class for members and spouses, a fishing day, a Bunnings BBQ, a motorcycle ride to an antique motorbike museum and an excursion to the Vietnam Veterans’ Museum.
Next on the list is an Easter Wheelbarrow Raffle. Tickets to the annual raffle can be purchased from embers or on Saturday morning sin the Upwey shopping strip prior to Easter, with prizes contributed by local businesses to support the Men’s Shed.
Mr Wright said the Men’s Shed has helped the local community with projects in recent years at Upwey Primary School and providing relief to residents affected by the storms last year.
“This year UMS are looking to combine with Belgrave Men’s Shed to help the Birdsland Community Plant Nursery with a small building project,” he said.
“UMS have lots of plans and expectations this year, so come along to our Monday and Wednesday morning meetings at the Upwey Township Hall to see how you can benefit and contribute.”
