Christmas cheer at Men’s Shed
If Santa ran his own workshop, you would possibly find him at the Matamata Men’s Shed.
The hard working volunteers at the not-for-profit organisation are gearing up for Christmas, running a special fundraiser of unique wooden Christmas trees and tiered Christmas trees.
Secretary David Brocklehurst says the trees are the perfect adornment for any outdoor Christmas display, or for something unique to put up inside. And they are made to order.
The men will also soon be dusting off Santa’s sleigh and reindeer, which they made for the Santa Parade for very special guest, Santa Claus.
It will feature in this year’s parade on December 3.
The Matamata Men’s Shed, affiliated with the Men’s Shed national body, relies on fundraising to operate.
It has 40 active members, with about 14 men working every Tuesday and Thursday when the shed is open.
‘‘We survive on generosity and good will, says Brockelhurst.
‘‘It is for retired people with time on their hands and is a way to keep busy and provides camaraderie. There is always plenty to do and there is something for everyone, even the nonprofessionals,’’ he says.
‘‘You can always learn something from someone.
‘‘It’s also a way for wives to get rid of their husbands for a few hours,’’ he jokes.
It was originally started as a repair shop, with the men making a few projects such as wooden toys, on the side to sell as well.
Now, they have veered into taking orders to help meet operating costs, while still doing repairs.
They are working on an order of reindeer and sleigh for someone and a few planter boxes, wheel barrows for a garden display are also under construction.
Brockelhurst says they are not trying to be an alternate option for people hiring a tradesman.
All their work is only carried out at the Men’s Shed on Rewa Street, they do not do house calls.
With an engineering depart- ment as well as a woodwork room, their capabilities are quite varied and Brockelhurst says they enjoy a challenge, so if someone has a unique idea, they should just go in and chat to the men.
‘‘We charge a reasonable price.’’
Matamata-Piako Mayor Jan Barnes is a huge supporter of the Matamata Men’s Shed and acts as their patron. more than