MEN’S shed members from across the South East and Western Victoria recently descended on Mount Gambier for the cross-border cluster.
Held four times a year, it was Mount Gambier’s turn to host a barbecue lunch last month, giving men from all different walks of life a chance to meet at the same venue.
Club president Peter Halleday said it was great to have the event back in Mount Gambier.
“We have not hosted the combined gathering for around two years as we have been constructing our shed,” Mr Halleday said.
Mr Halleday said everyone enjoyed the opportunity to catch-up with people they do not normally see from other sheds.
“It’s all about the comradeship and these days are great because we can build on that with the other sheds,” he said.
“It is also a really good opportunity to exchange ideas to take back to your own group.”
Men’s health is a key focus for men’s sheds across the country and Mr Halleday said their group does not shy away from the issue.
“It’s what men’s sheds are all about because plenty of people in the group have retired or are widows,” Mr Halleday said.
“It gives them a sense of worth and helps them mentally and physically.”
Victorian Men’s Shed Association field officer Phillip Keily said the interstate sheds looked forward to an ongoing partnership with the South Australian groups.
“At these types of gatherings we can share our experiences and find out what things different sheds are doing in different communities,” he said.
“We give away some goodies and have some prizes, but overall it’s just a great chance for some blokes to come together and share stories.”
