WHEN Ari Sandstrom was made redundant, the computer whiz found purpose at the Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed.
Australia has more than 500 registered sheds focused on supporting men’s health and well-being.
When Mr Sandstrom arrived at the Altona shed, it was to prove to himself that he wasn’t redundant.
“I’ve been forced off the job market and I’m disabled,” he said. “Being disabled and put as ‘redundant’ – I didn’t like that word, ‘redundant’. I was willing to work anywhere.
“When I found a men’s shed, I came here and they showed me the computer restoration.
“I love repairing computers and I just get the satisfaction of watching people go out and say ‘We’ve got a computer that works,’ or they bring their old computers and say, ‘Can you fix them?’ and I fix them.
“Most of the people can’t afford anything so we just help them out. A lot of people out there just need help more than anything.”
For many, the shed is a weapon in the battle against depression and social isolation.
It can literally be a lifesaver, shed secretary George Said said. “We’ve had men who are quite depressed and they need to come and chat and talk and be with others who are not down and out.
“We’ve seen quite remarkable recoveries.
“Men always spend time in the shed, but these days they go into smaller houses without sheds and if they don’t have a shed they don’t know what to do with themselves.”
He said the shed was also for women.
“It’s not just for men, and it’s not [just] for old men either.
Regular workshops include woodworking, engineering, computer recycling, seniors’ IT training and theatre-prop manufacturing.
Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed at 280 Queen Street, Altona, is holding an open day on June 16 from 10am-3pm. Details:
