The Menai Men’s Shed is commemorating the organisation’s 30th anniversary by inviting the public to their workshop on the 29 September.
Visitors will be treated to guided tours of the workshop, showcasing the members’ projects, while instilling the importance of continued support for the organisation and its members.
Representatives of the state and federal parliaments are also expected to make an appearance.
Jo Buchan, Secretary for the Menai Men’s Shed, believes the event will showcase what the Men’s Shed is able to provide for the community.
“We’re showing people – this is what we can do,” he said,
“We’re able to utilise our skills, our knowledge, and our will to help,
“As well as keeping men out of pubs… providing something for [them] to do.”
Menai’s Shed was established in June 2010 and has provided men of all ages (but typically older) the support system and routine that assists their mental health. A 2020 study suggests that depression is prevalent in 22.7% of retired men, ranging from minor to serious conditions.
Mr. Buchan said that the Men’s Shed organisation helps men by offering support in a familiar and comfortable environment.
“The idea is that, when men retire, they lose their companionship, that camaraderie,” he said.
“They’re craving the life that they used to have. [The Shed] keeps people occupied so that they don’t wither on the vine.”
The first Men’s Shed was established in 1993 in Balgownie with the Men’s Shed organisation officially forming in 2007. Membership for the Men’s Shed in Australia has grown to over 50 thousand members across 1,200 sheds with more than 2,500 sheds globally.
All are welcome to the Menai Shed on 29 September, more information on the organisation and membership can be found on the Australian Men’s Shed Organisation website.