Aged care provider Tall Trees Redland Bay has established a feature-packed men’s shed on the neighbourhood’s grounds, filled it with tools, and is ready to open it up for the public to use.
Over 20 men from the local community and Tall Trees wandered through the gates on Thursday 9 February for the first meeting where they signed up and had a look at their shed for the first time.
Men’s sheds are established as places for men to congregate, with the convenience of having all of the facilities of a workshop without requiring the same outlay of cash.
They have been identified as important instruments in the battle against depression and isolation amongst older Australian men, providing a comfortable and familiar environment in which to socialise.
Tall Trees Redland Bay’s networking coordinator Hannah Reed says they are glad to be able to provide a facility that will bring enjoyment to many.
“A major part of the Tall Trees ethos is about being active within the community and providing assistance to seniors broadly—not just those within our neighborhoods,” Ms Reed says.
“Men’s sheds are really gaining prominence as vital locations in our community, and are starting to earn a status that’s nearly akin to going to the pub or going to watch a game of sport.
“Due to our central location to a number of suburbs, we found men were coming from all over to sign up to use the shed.”
While Tall Trees established the men’s shed, the initial drive for members is being looked after by the Redlands Seniors Network.
The men’s shed committee will, however, consist of one Tall Trees staff member who will be able to offer further assistance to those running the facility while ensuring that it benefits both the public and residents.
President of RDCOTA Tony Christinson has been involved in the setup of other men’s sheds. He says the new facility will be a very welcome addition to the area.
“Typically, these kinds of sheds are established by groups of men who identify a need, then look for a venue that will be suitable—in this case, with Tall Trees offering their facility up, it’s almost the other way around,” Mr Christinson says.
“Tall Trees have set up a really fantastic shed on their grounds, and there has already been an excellent uptake from the local community in our first meeting.”
The men’s shed at Tall Trees already has many of the tools you’d expect to see in the garage of someone who’s been a handyman for most of their life.
For more information, contact RDCOTA on (07) 3488 0680.
http://www.baysidebulletin.com.au/news/local/news/general/shed-a-place-just-for-blokes/2437718.aspx
