LADIES, have you been trying to do a home maintenance project but haven’t had the tools or haven’t been able to justify the cash splurge on a tool to complete a ten minute job?

You will be happy to hear that a tool library is one of the projects being considered by the steering committee for a local Women’s Shed project.

Potentially you could come and learn how to use the tool safely, borrow the tool and go home and get on with the project.

Ms Lexie Clark, President of the Lion’s Club Coffs Harbour, birthed the idea of a women’s centre and the idea has grown from there.

She told News of The Area, “This project aims to provide a women’s only space to help combat loneliness and build self-esteem by supporting women to develop a variety of skills and improve wellbeing.”

The Women’s Shed looks to include tools, crafts, a commercial kitchen and meeting rooms.

“We are hoping to achieve aims such as combating loneliness, providing a space for women to come together of all cultures and ages,” said Ms Clark.

“We want it to be a centre of excellence to bring women of all backgrounds together.

“We have many women who want to share their skills and help women to be stronger and more independent,” she said.

A survey was released on facebook for women to complete their interest in the shed and aspects they would like to see included.

Ms Clark and Ms Alex Miller, also involved in the project, are asking women to go online and complete the survey which is still available at http://bit.ly/CHWS-SURVEY

“The survey has gone out and has had 300 responses and the response is overwhelmingly positive,” said Ms Clark.

“We have had 18 year old women and 80 year old women responding to the survey,”she said.

The survey results show health and wellness and home maintenance have been the most popular areas of interest.

The project has been developing over the last six weeks by The Lion’s Club and is at the stage of a draft strategic plan.

Looking forward the steering committee will meet with council in the new year and discuss possible premises.

“We would love to see an outcome in 2021 of a building standing and functioning as the Women’s Shed,” said Ms Clark.

 

By Sandra MOON