Kempsey Men's Shed is on the grow

The popularity of the Men’s Shed has led to overcrowding as they have more than 100 members and the new proposed facility will be built on the Kempsey Golf Club land at a small cost per year.

Kempsey Men’s Shed public officer John Hastings said a decision will be made as soon as all 10 committee members are available.

“We have nine members who are unavailable for a meeting at the moment but when they return we will have a vote and I am sure the proposition will be passed,” Mr Hastings told the Argus.

The Men’s Shed provides a place for men where men can connect with one another, learn and share skills, and provide a service to the wider community.

“There is a lot of social interaction between us all and people who are doing it tough – and they feel better when they are at the Men’s Shed,” Mr Hastings said.

“We do a lot for the community which gives you a good feeling on the inside.”

Federal Member for Cowper Luke Hartsuyker said the successful grant was part of round two of the program, and that 1676 projects had applied for funding.

“The Stronger Communities Program was established by the Coalition Government to fund small capital projects which will deliver social benefits to local communities,” Mr Hartsuyker said.

“The Kempsey Men’s Shed provides an important function within the local community that is both unique and irreplaceable.

“Kempsey Men’s Shed volunteers devote their time to making toys for children in Africa, they attend local nursing homes to teach residents arts and crafts, and they also provide a refuge for people seeking company.”

Kempsey Men’s Shed is a self-funded, non-profit, community based organisation that provides the use of woodworking equipment under the guidance of a qualified supervisor.

The modern Men’s Shed is an updated version of the shed in the backyard that has long been a part of Australian culture.