THE Australian Government Department of Health National Shed Development Program’s new round of grants is open for applications, closing on 25 February 2022.

Liz MacDonald, Shed Development, Australian Men’s Shed Association told News Of The Area, “The grants program has been administered by The Australian Men’s Shed Association since 2010 with Round 23 currently open.

“Times have been quite difficult for Sheds during the past two years with Covid lockdowns and other Public Health Orders.

“As not-for-profit organisations, Men’s Sheds rely on their fundraising to maintain the activities and operations of their Shed.

“The National Shed Development Program grants provide an opportunity for the Sheds to make improvements to the facility, additional activities for their members and contribute to their communities,” said Liz.

Bruce Andersen, Nambucca Heads Men’s Shed, told News Of The Area, “The Australian Men’s Shed Association Grants through the Australian Government Department of Health have been very helpful in the past for the development of the Nambucca Heads Men’s Shed as well as many other sheds around the country.

“In round 21 we were able to purchase safety glasses, masks, a defibrillator, water tank, electrical tag testing machine and training.

“Also, in the past we were able to get a portable kitchen-eating room, portable office and storage containers.

“The Association also provides helpful advice on men’s wellbeing, shed management and an affordable insurance plan.”

Kathy Oliver, General Manager, Lifetime Connect Macksville Men’s Shed, told News Of The Area, “The Lifetime Connect Macksville Men’s Shed has provided social networks and support for people in the community for 21 years.

“It is a place for men to come together to share their skills and experiences.

“It is a place for creativity, teamwork and celebration.

“The Men’s Shed attends community events and supports community activities.

“They use their skills to craft a range of products to raise funds at local markets and take customised requests as well.

“Lifetime Connect recently secured a grant through the Australian Men’s Shed Association of $2,398.00 for Shed improvements.”

Men’s Sheds are known as a vital community investment delivering programs and activities that foster community spirit, connect communities and contribute to building inclusivity.

Most ‘shedders’ see themselves as having a strong sense of belonging and ownership of their Shed, share fellowship, camaraderie and devote most of their time to worthwhile community projects.

Men’s Sheds not only play important roles in the overall improvement of health and wellbeing but also positively engage within their community for the benefit of all.

Individual Men’s Sheds in Australia can apply for a range of financial support across the following three funding categories:

Category One: Health and Wellbeing and Events (maximum funding $8,000).

Category Two: Shed Improvements ((maximum funding $8,000).

Category Three: Equipment (maximum funding $5,000).

For more info contact amsa@mensshed.net.

See the funding guidelines at https://mensshed.org/development-grants/.

 

By Andrea FERRARI