Jennifer Pittorino
Mens Shed’s have been in operation since 2007, now the Hobsons Bay community has been in discussion on whether a women’s shed is needed in the municipality.
A Hobsons Bay Facebook community page asked the almost 6,000 members if there should be a women’s shed in Hobsons Bay.
One respondent wrote, “The men’s shed movement was founded to provide a safe space for men to discuss men’s health issues, particularly those who are suffering in silence. It has saved lives. Would changing the name help?”
Another wrote, “Perhaps the sheds can be shared amongst men, women and teens on different days and hours for different groups. I’m personally in favour of each group having their own designated time.”
Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed (HBMS) secretary Janelle Berner said rather than a women’s shed, HBMS had fielded requests for a children’s and teen’s shed.
“I think there is a bigger call for something for children as we have had quite a few requests in the past from parents about our members potentially mentoring young children and teens in the workshop particularly which we have been unable to assist with,” she said.
Ms Berner said the shed already welcomes members of all genders so a women’s shed may not be of use as there are already many female community groups.
“We have quite a few female members, myself included,” she said.
“Two of us are executive members of the Committee of Management, with our treasurer having served for over 13 years in the role.
“We would consider programs for females if there was a call for it.”
The Australians Men’s Shed Association defines a men’s shed as an updated version of the shed in the backyard which has long been a part of Australian culture.
A Hobsons Bay council spokesperson said the Men’s Shed had been a wonderful, positive part of Hobsons Bay for many years and it would support the addition of more sheds.
“We are always supportive of programs that bring the community together and promote social connectedness and community spirit,” they said.
“The addition of a women’s shed in Hobsons Bay would be a positive step in providing a paralleled opportunity with significant physical and mental health and wellbeing benefits for the women in our community.”
