By Emily Chapman Laing
The Cranbourne Casey Men’s Shed has opened a new activities room after receiving funding from the Cardinia Foundation.
“Since 2009 [the shed] has offered a safe, friendly venue for men in the City of Casey to meet and undertake activities that promote friendship, a sense of belonging, achievement and improved mental health,“ Cranbourne Casey Men’s Shed Committee Member Rob Adams said.
Recently the shed committee identified that a number of men were keen to join a men’s shed but found the workshop environment where most projects were centered did not meet their needs because of health concerns including dust, noise and dangerous tools.
“A decision was made to seek funding to build an Activities Room separate to the woodworking workshop where men could participate in other activities and enjoy the benefits a men’s shed can offer,“ Mr Adams said.
Financial assistance was sought through grant programs and grants were secured from the Cardinia Foundation, City of Casey and the Federal Government’s Stronger Communities Program.
Mr Adams said the generosity and support is highly appreciated.
Paul Thomas, Chairman of the Cardinia Foundation said after Covid-19, it was important to contribute to the health and wellbeing of the local community.
“The Men’s Shed wanted to update their facilities with new air conditioner, kitchen appliances, a television, computer, gaming console and games to offer their members more activities and reach a broader range of members other than those just interested in woodwork,“ he said.
“The Men’s Shed is a great not for profit that not only brings the community together, but works on different projects that benefit the whole community.“
This project was ultimately funded by the Cardinia Casey Biggest Ever Blokes Lunch.
Mr Thomas said The Men’s Shed provides an inclusive environment which assists social interactions, mental health and generally assists well being.
“As the population grows in the local area, the Cardinida Foundation believes in building a strong, healthy and diverse community and through our programs we help local community groups to thrive,“ he said.
“The needs across the region are significant with a diverse range of needs and it is vital group such as the Foundation are able to provide important financial support.“
The Activities Room offers coffee and a socialising space, TV and video, computer access, music, darts, hookey and quoits, a small library area, chess and other board and card games.
The shed is located in the grounds of Blairlogie Adult Living and Learning Inc.
Mr Adams encourages local men to visit the shed and see how it can contribute to their lives.
The Cardinia Foundation has recently undergone a major change in strategic direction and will be working to provide more funds to the community and assisting bigger projects and ultimately having greater impact but the Foundation will now focus on Cardinia Shire Council area only in the future.
