THE inability to gather together has not stopped the Mount Gambier Men’s Shed from continuing its community projects.
Members are currently preparing wooden toys for the annual Mount Gambier Mayor’s Christmas Appeal, a partnership formed in 2017 to help bring joy to children over the festive season.
While COVID-19 regulations have made it difficult for some members to access the space and machinery required to make the toys, several have continued their work at home, producing and painting toys.
It has been a team effort with members who can access machinery crafting the toys, before passing them on to be painted by others, all while adhering to proper infection control protocols.
Member Peter Heness said the initiative was more important now than ever with the need of the appeal expected to be bigger this year due to the current crisis.
“It also allows some of the men in the appeal to remain active and ensure children do not miss out at Christmas,” Mr Heness said.
“We have seen challenges with arranging to get timber pieces and timber we will need to get out of the shed and into our personal smaller shed to be able to make the toys.
“It is hoped we can still put many smiles on the little faces again this year.”
