Mature aged men in Colac will have a new place to build skills, friendships and useful bits and pieces, thanks to a $50,000 boost from the Brumby Government, Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney said today.
Ms Tierney said the funding would help Colac Men’s Shed Steering Committee build a new men’s shed in Pound Road, Colac to give local men a place to get together, be creative and get involved in community activities that interest them.
“Colac Men’s Shed will give older men in the area a relaxed place to learn new skills while working on projects that provide practical benefits to the local community – such as fixing tables and chairs at the local school,” Ms Tierney said.
“By helping men get involved in community projects, education programs and volunteering, the project will have great benefits for the individual health and well being of local men and for the wider community.”
Most men involved in men’s sheds are aged over 50 years, with many having experienced life changing circumstances, such as leaving the paid workforce or health problems.
“Through partnerships with local community services and organisations, the Colac Men’s Shed will help men access health-related information and support services, which they often don’t actively seek out,” Ms Tierney said.
Minister for Senior Victorians, Lisa Neville, said Colac Men’s Shed was one of 25 projects across the state to share in $1 million in the first round of Men’s Sheds Program grants.
“The Brumby Government is investing $2 million over two years to expand Victoria’s existing network of men’s sheds and ensure they are available to men in communities that need them most,” Ms Neville said.
“This is a great example of what can be achieved when governments work in partnership with the community to address local needs.
“Our Men’s Sheds Program is one way the Government is making sure Victorians get the local facilities and services they need the most,” Ms Neville said.
For more information about the Victorian Government’s Men’s Sheds Program visit www.grants.dpcd.vic.gov.au.