Cranbourne Casey Men’s Shed has received new State funding to upgrade equipment in its growing community workshop, securing a $3,890 grant to purchase new machinery.
The funding comes through the 2025-26 Men’s Shed Funding Program, part of more than $860,000 being distributed by the State Government to 31 men’s sheds across Victoria for upgrades, expansion and tools.
The announcement was marked with a visit from Bass MP Jordan Crugnale, who joined members for an early lunch and toured the Cranbourne facility to formally recognise the grant success, complete with celebratory cake.
Ms Crugnale praised the group’s craftsmanship and community impact.
“A joy to be welcomed by Cranbourne Casey Men’s Shed — the artistry and care in everything they make is exquisite,” she said.
“They are such a welcoming and supportive group, and anything we can do to support them is truly valued.”
The grant will fund key machinery additions, including an industrial vacuum cleaner, multifunctional tool sharpener, bandsaw and orbital sander. In previous funding rounds, the Shed also secured $6,400 to upgrade its laser cutting machine.
Shed President Edmund Lang said the funding would support both safety and the group’s expanding programs.
“We are delighted with this grant program because it helps us with our projects and to work safely,” he said.
“Our shed is also used by Blairlogie Living and Learning participants and clients, so our machinery needs to be modern and safe, and this does that.
“This grant means we can upgrade our machinery — purchase a new bandsaw, tool cutting sharpener and an industrial vacuum cleaner to replace Brutus.”
Shed members, now 42-strong, contribute across Cranbourne, Tooradin, Narre Warren and Casey’s coastal villages, delivering community projects, repairs, repurposed materials, and toy restoration programs for local residents.
During the tour, the shed treasurer Alan Hunt presented Ms Crugnale with a laser-printed, self-assembled Sydney Harbour Bridge model, built by members.
For a full list of recipients, visit vic.gov.au/mens-shed-funding-program.
