Story by Elena Antoniou
How long has Breakfast Point Men’s Shed chapter been around for?
“We had our official opening on May 13, 2013.”
How many and how old are your current members?
“We have approximately 60 members ranging in age from mid sixties to early nineties.”What is the main function of your shed and its endeavours?
“We specialise in making things for non-profit community organisations, such as public hospitals, schools, and refuge centres. We make wooden devices for drug and rehabilitation units, dementia facilities, and mental health centres, all free of charge. We also make things such as chopping boards, toys, pens, and Christmas decorations, which we sell at local markets and fairs like the Breakfast Point Spring Fair. We have an excellent relationship with Bunnings and work with them on assisting community groups. Most of our fundraising is done through Bunnings community barbeques.”What’s been the wildest thing anyone’s ever repaired or made?
“Sorry, as old farts, we are definitely not into wild.”
How can locals get involved or help out?
“They can help by supporting our fundraising and suggesting to us projects that meet our criteria to help the local community.”Have you seen first-hand how Men’s Shed can help members with mental health issues?
“We have many examples of individual members benefitting from becoming part of our family. We have a discreet welfare policy where we try to be proactive in helping our members. Our wide range of social activities is a big plus in this area, too.” Do you have any stories you’d like to share about your community? “On our website you’ll find our monthly newsletters, which contain profiles of many of our members. We like to mostly guard their privacy.”Anything else you’d like to add?
“No, I’ve run out of puff, but thanks for your interest.”
Men’s Shed is located at The Gatehouse, Magnolia Drive, Breakfast Point. For details
Email: breakfastpointmensshed@gmail.com