Friday, 1 November 2024

Shed Spotlight: Darebin Men’s Shed

The Darebin Men’s Shed is located in East Reservoir and is delivered by Your Community Health and has been operating since 2002. Our shed supports local residents who are at risk of social isolation and people who have chronic health conditions or are living with a disability. The Darebin Men’s Shed is one of the 3% of sheds that do not operate on a traditional membership funding model. We have State and Commonwealth funding and NDIS participants can also attend as part of their plan.

The Darebin Men’s Shed also provides the Bike Linx Program, which is a volunteer-led bike workshop that services and repairs donated bikes which are then donated or sold, when appropriate, back to the community.This program is supported by the Darebin Council.

Activities that are enjoyed by the participants include playing pool, which generates friendly rivalry and competition, gardening, music, games, and woodworking. The groups also enjoy going on outings for picnics and BBQs at local parks, ten-pin bowling, trips to hardware stores and visiting markets.

The Darebin Men’s Shed recently underwent a major refurbishment which has provided the participants with lovely new facilities with a separate kitchen, community space, community garden and workshop.

Reflections from a couple of long-term participants:

“I have been coming to the Men’s Shed since roughly 2002, and fondly remember the Men’s Shed starting up. Previously working for a paper recycling and shredding company, I come to the Men’s Shed to have a chat with the guys and stay to have a good meal and a coffee, which has been beneficial for me in creating friendships. I really like the renovated building, it feels comfortable and safe”

“I live with my sister and her partner. I have been coming to the shed for over 10 years. I had a job years ago working in a trophy shop making trophies. I spend time fixing bikes at the shed and I like learning new skills. I really enjoy socialising with other people and seeing my friends”

Due to our funding model, eligibility criteria and a referral process apply. For more information, please contact mensshed@yourch.org.au or call (03) 8470 1111

Your community Health values the contribution of our volunteers and is looking for people to join our team to assist in our shed workshop and bike workshop. For more information visit https://www.yourch.org.au/get-involved/volunteer/ or contact Donna at (03) 8470 1111