Men’s Sheds: More than meets the eye
TOOLS and heavy machinery are just some of the things commonly associated with Men’s Sheds, but after speaking with members of the volunteer-run group I was quick to find out they are so much more.
In Dubbo alone there are two community men’s sheds that provide men from all walks of life with a safe and supportive environment to interact and take part in a range of activities, from hands-on projects to enjoying a cuppa and playing cards.
These meeting places not only give members a place to socialise and build friendships, but also have a significant benefit on their health and wellbeing, so much so that the Federal government has begun funding the groups out of its health budget.
Vice-president of the Dubbo Community Men’s shed Steve White says the committee welcomes members of the community to the shed to talk to shed members about a range of health related topics.
“We have doctors and specialists come and give talks a few times a year and an audiologist comes once a year to do free hearing tests for our members which is great – so much so that last time one of the members was fitted with a hearing aid through a government sponsored program.”
Over the years members of the group have seen first-hand the incredible support men’s sheds can offer and state the comradery between members is unbelievable.
“We had two guys who were put into permanent care because of their mental health and they both stated that without the shed they wouldn’t be here,” said member John Gibson.
South Dubbo Men’s Shed secretary Brian Bolton says the environment has a positive impact on members’ mental and physical health.
“It’s about giving them something to do. We provide a place for Vietnam veterans to meet and offer them an exercise program twice a week that’s run through the DVA (Department of Veterans’ Affairs).
“It’s a people service, we try to help steer those in need in the right direction. Our doors are always open.”
To find out how you can get involved in your local men’s shed go to www.mensshed.org.