By Casey Neill
The Endeavour Hills Men’s Shed isn’t letting a lack of space hold it back.
The group first met in February as a project of the Endeavour Hills Rotary Club and with the support of the City of Casey.
It officially incorporated as a separate group in April and welcomes men to socialise, share experiences and learn new skills.
Endeavour Hills Men’s Shed president Trevor Ratcliffe said the members were developing community partnerships and supporting community groups.
“A lack of workshop space in their current premises means that some of their equipment is in storage,” he said.
“The men are looking for a permanent home to set up a full workshop and social facilities and are speaking to the City of Casey about this.
“This probably means that the men will need to raise the funds for a new purpose-built facility.
“In the meantime, they are very keen to be an important part of the community by supporting other not-for-profit organisations.
“Shortage of space does not mean short of initiative.”
Mr Ratcliffe said members recently completed their first community project.
They knocked apart used pallets in a paddock, and in a member’s carport assembled the planks as a teepee.
They delivered the structure to the Good Start Early Learning Centre in Endeavour Hills as a playground addition.
“Once a permanent home is found and the shed grows, the range of their hands-on activities will too,” Mr Ratcliffe said.
“Already the men are broadening their activities beyond working with wood. These include computers, other practical skills, and interests which will lead to new pursuits.”
He said fund-raising barbecues were being organised and excursions were being considered.
“They may be new but they are active, eager to find a new home, to grow and to contribute,” he said.
Mr Ratcliffe said members went bike riding and walking, enjoyed guest speakers and acquired workshop equipment.
“But there is no end to the range of potential activities – social, environmental, active or passive recreation,” he said.
“They are all just waiting for two or more to get together and begin.”
The men meet at the Essex Park Community Place, Essex Park Drive, Endeavour Hills.
Follow the group on Facebook, visit endeavourhillsmensshed.blogspot.com/p/supporters.htm or call Mr Ratcliffe on 9700 5061 or 0428 472 030.
