Monday, 6 October 2025

Fire Shed Revamp for Newstead Men’s Shed

The Newstead Men’s Shed celebrated the re-opening of their newly refurbished fire shed on Tuesday, August 19th, under glorious sunshine.

Outgoing secretary Graeme Lees shared the long journey to this milestone:

“The council have been trying for the past 15 years to get approval to remove the asbestos from the heritage fire station. While doing that, they gave us a new roof, new gutters, and reclad the whole exterior. It’s come up really nicely. We’ve also been able to add disabled access and even gave our pilot mascot on the front veranda a revamp with new clothes! We’re going to enjoy being back in a warm environment for our cuppas and the occasional meeting.”

Michelle Heyward, Mount Alexander Shire Council’s building and projects coordinator, explained: “When we get rid of the asbestos, we try to bring the buildings into the 21st century.”

During the re-opening speeches, Graeme gave a heartfelt history of the Shed. What began in 2010 as “a few local blokes facing health and ageing issues who decided to form a men’s social support group,” quickly grew into something bigger.

At first, the group met in a local café while searching for a permanent home. Soon after, they secured the old single-truck fire station, thanks to a supportive Shire Council who leased the building and land to them.

In the early years, the fire station doubled as a workshop, kitchen, and even a pool room. As membership and enthusiasm grew, funds were raised, and with the combined efforts of members (some setting aside their walking sticks) and a few tradesmen, the group went on to build their current workshop shed behind the fire station — now proudly standing as a hub of community, creativity, and camaraderie.