Murchison Men’s Shed members Ian, John, Wal, Con, Bob, Peter, Rob, Doug and Dennis enjoy the new recreation area, made possible by a $100,000 Victorian Government grant.
A men’s shed goes beyond the four walls — it’s a place where mateship, conversation and community come together.
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And when the Murchison Men’s Shed opened its doors to more than 70 visitors last week for the first regional men’s shed gathering since COVID-19, it proved just that.
Men’s shed members from Tatura, Mooroopna, Shepparton, Shepparton East, Dookie, Tallygaroopna along with members from GV Woodworkers, came together to connect, share ideas and see firsthand the results of a major upgrade to the Murchison shed.
Murchison Men’s Shed secretary Con Scarvelis said it was the perfect time to bring people together again.
“We wanted to kick things back off and get everyone under one roof — it’s about talking, sharing ideas and enjoying each other’s company,” Mr Scarvelis said.
The day featured tool demonstrations by Bendigo-based supplier Chevington Tools, showcasing metal craft equipment, and a visit from Goulburn Valley Health’s Candace Bianchini, who recently ran a six-week FoodREDi healthy cooking program with Murchison members.
Lunch, provided by the local bowling club and funded by Greater Shepparton City Council, kept the focus on connection and conversation.
Finger food encouraged members to move about, mingle and meet new faces.
Murchison Men’s Shed president Dennis McCullagh said the response had been positive.
“I think everybody was pretty impressed with our shed — and that’s great because there’s a lot of work that’s gone into it,” Mr McCullagh said.
“People pick up new ideas at gatherings like this, and men’s sheds are about far more than just tools.”
The shed’s new facilities include a kitchen, pool table, recreation space and extended workshop area, which were made possible through a $100,000 Victorian Government grant earlier this year.
The upgrades now give members a place not only to work on wood and metal projects, but also to socialise, play a game of pool or simply sit and have a yarn.
“Men’s sheds are about health, wellbeing and mateship,” Mr McCullagh said.
“For some blokes, it really can be life-changing, and it gives them a place to belong.
“Today has shown that these big gatherings are pretty special for everyone — it’s been a great day all round.”
Rolly Quaife and Lacey Baker from Shepparton East getting hands-on with the tool demonstrations.
GV Health registered nurse and health coach Candice Bianchini chats healthy eating with Shepparton East members Frank Tate and Clive Ramset.
The new pool table and recreation area are already a hit with Murchison Men’s Shed secretary Con Scarvelis and president Dennis McCullagh.
Men’s shed members connecting and sharing ideas over lunch.
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