Men in Cobden will soon have a better place to work together on community projects and build skills and projects, thanks to a new $7,000 grant from the Brumby Labor Government’s Men’s Shed program.
Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP said Cobden District Health Services Inc had received the grant to expand the existing Men’s Shed to meet OHS Standards and Building Standards surrounding OHS.
Ms Tierney said the men have expanded their activities in the shed, and a number of have OHS issues that require attention.
“The Brumby Labor Government understands that helping men get involved in community projects, education programs and volunteering has great benefits for both their individual health and happiness and for the wider community,” Ms Tierney said.
“By expanding the shed, all of these OHS issues will be resolved and the Cobden Men’s Shed can continue to be the valuable facility that it is.
“The upgraded 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.
“The men’s shed in Cobden has become a real community asset and I encourage even more local men to get involved.
Ms Tierney said Cobden was one of 27 recipients to share in more than $1.07 million in the fourth round of grant funding.
“The Men’s Sheds program is one way the Brumby Labor Government is making sure Victorians get the local facilities and services they need the most,” she said.
“While supporting older men with somewhere to get together and work on worthwhile projects, men’s sheds can link them to information and services for a range of health and wellbeing support – which they often don’t actively seek out themselves.
Minister for Senior Victorians Lisa Neville said the Brumby Labor Government was committed to supporting men’s sheds to grow and develop as sustainable community assets to be enjoyed by people of all ages.
“Research shows that men’s sheds are particularly good at providing important services such as medical and welfare advice for older men, as well as giving them an opportunity to share their skills and wisdom,” Ms Neville said.
“Senior Victorians are a pivotal part of a volunteer sector, they make significant contributions to ensuring communities are great places to live.”
The Brumby Labor Government has invested $4.5 million over three years in the Men’s Sheds program – the first program in Australia to provide specific support directly to Men’s Sheds which has supported over 100 Men’s Sheds across Victoria.
For more information about the Men’s Sheds program, please visit www.grants.dpcd.vic.gov.au