New equipment at Aberfeldie Men’s Shed makes room for more members

The Aberfeldie Men’s Shed will be able to offer more opportunities to Moonee Valley men thanks to a Victorian state government grant announced today.

Deputy Premier Ben Carroll and Minister for Carers and Volunteers Ros Spence visited the Shed this morning to announce almost $15,000 towards a new shade sail and wood-working equipment.

The shade sail will create a safe outdoor workspace at the Men’s Shed, opening up room for more participants (or ‘Sheddies’, as they’re known) on-site.

New planer, joiner and thicknesser equipment will also expand the Shed’s productivity and offer members new learning opportunities.

Established in 2011, the Aberfeldie Men’s Shed has approximately 80 members. Team Leader Bernie Doolan said the Council-run service offered vital opportunities for the community to learn new skills and make friends.

“Some of [the men] have lost their wives, so they come here to mix with the other guys, speak about how they’re doing and share their skills – all in a stress-free environment,” Bernie said.

“The motto is, ‘Come here happy, and leave happier’, and this grant means we can offer that to even more people.”

Bernie Doolan (centre) speaking to Minister for Carers and Volunteers Ros Spence and Deputy Premier Ben Carroll.

Mayor Ava Adams welcomed the grant funding.

“The Aberfeldie Men’s Shed has been a vital part of our community for the past 14 years, offering men in our community a safe and supportive environment to learn new skills and make new friendships,” she said.

“In many ways, the Men’s Shed is a perfect encapsulation of Moonee Valley’s vision for a healthy city where people at all stages of life can live locally and sustainably.”