By Cr Cuc Lam
I’m happy to report council has been working with the Braybrook Men’s Shed to support more inclusive membership providing a more diverse audience with access to its programs.
Formed in 2007, the Men’s Shed movement in Australia has become a powerful tool in addressing men’s health and wellbeing, enhancing skill development and learning opportunities for men of all ages and offering social support and community connection.
Council has supported the operation of the Braybrook Men’s Shed at the local Community Hub since the facility opened in 2015, through a peppercorn lease and nominal funding.
The community space used by the Men’s Shed is unique in that it is specifically set up to facilitate skills in woodwork.
It is pleasing to see them prepared to widen their offer in order to ensure women and diverse groups in our community can participate.
Council is also planning to provide extra programs to maximise the use of the space by the community.
In addition to what will be a fantastic suite of programs at the Men’s Shed, there are a number of programs designed to help women develop hands-on skills locally – with Maidstone Community Centre running popular classes focused on woodwork and home improvement; and both Victoria University Polytechnic and Trades Hall delivering free ‘Try a Trade’ programs to provide aspiring tradeswomen with practical experience across a range of trades.
