Women encouraged to join Emerald Men’s Shed

Darren Griggs, Alan Bennett, Tom Connolly, John Ruigrok, Roy Whiting, Mark Gearon, Peter Bos, Stuart Allen and Russell Jolley from the Emerald Men's Shed with members of U3A Emerald. PICTURE: SUPPLIED

Since the closure of the Hills She Shed, the Emerald Men’s Shed Incorporated (EMS) has had several enquiries from women asking what woodworking options are available for them.

To this end the EMS is opening a community group which will meet on Wednesdays between 9am and 4pm. Other sessions may follow at a later date as the need arises.

The community group is available to all people over the age of 18 years. It is designed as a self-paced learn-as-you-go group and not a structured learning activity.

Participants can learn to safely use hand and power tools and woodworking machinery, with other skills introduced as required.

Attendees can also learn to undertake basic maintenance around the home, including jobs such as changing a tap washer and fix a sticking door or window.

It is also possible to make projects of your own design using your own materials.

Some current members of the men’s shed are expected to attend the community group day and will be willing to assist when needed.

To cover legalities/insurance, members of the community group will become part of the Emerald Men’s Shed, at a membership cost of $50 per year.

This cost does not include any materials used by any members wanting to make their own projects.

Enrolments open on Wednesday 7 February.

As numbers are limited, with a limit of six spots in each session, people are encouraged to enrol early.

The group is expected to start on Wednesday 28 February 2024.

Enjoy the camaraderie of like-minded people.

For further information, contact the Emerald Men’s Shed on 0490 851 835 or email mensshedemerald@gmail.com.

You can also visit the Hills Community Hub at 402A Belgrave-Gembrook Road in Emerald, on the corner of Belgrave-Gembrook Road and Beaconsfield-Emerald Road, to see the men’s shed in person.