Tennis courts new home for Neerim Men’s Shed
The former Neerim Junction tennis court site will be redeveloped as a workshop for the Neerim District Men’s Shed.
Baw Baw Shire has endorsed a community lease of the site at a peppercorn rental to enable the group to establish the site as a valuable community space.
The site includes a dilapidated tennis court and club house which also is in poor condition.
A report to council said the men’s shed approached council about establishing a workshop on the site, which will be auspiced by the Neerim South Community House.
Several locations were considered but the tennis court site was identified as being very workable and fit for purpose.
Officers suggested the club be charged a peppercorn rental but be required to maintain the site and pay for all utilities and property charges
A meeting will be held with council’s planning and health team to discuss all requirements pertaining to the construction of the workshop and associated amenities.
The scope of works includes a 10x25 m workshop and a mess room to accommodate 10 to 12 people inclusive of kitchen and toilet facilities.
The group has a $100,000 budget for the project, which it hopes will be completed by December 2020.
Addressing council, Paul Ford said the Neerim District Men’s Shed wanted to turn the space into a “vibrant men’s workshop.”
Mr Ford said membership of the group had been steadily growing and was now at 55 members.
“It is a vibrant group and it is supporting members going through tough times,” he said.
Mr Ford said the group needed to show evidence of secure tenancy before it could apply for grant funding.
Mr Ford said the group would continue with night meetings and activities at the J.G Algie Hall but it wanted to establish a workshop in the tennis courts rooms.
Cr Darren Wallace said support this proposal was a “no brainer.”
He said the project had no financial ramifications for council as it was not receiving any money for the building anyway.
“Men’s Sheds are important for the health and wellbeing of its members,” he said.
Cr Michael Leaney said this was a great way to re-purpose a facility that isn’t being used.