By Tanya Steele
The Emerald Men’s Shed has created some festive wooden Christmas trees for the community to purchase ahead of the holiday season.
Primary project of was President Allan Bennett and club treasurer Tom Connelly said they’ve created several different types of trees over the years.
“We’ve done pallets and done lots of different types – whatever takes our fancy,” he said.
“One member once cut up wheel rims from bicycles, he is very artistic.”
The funds raised help pay for supplies and Mr Connelly said it keeps the lights on.
“We’ve got bills like everyone else,” he said.
The group also made a tree for the community hub which will be on display from the beginning of December.
Mr Connelly said that Mr Bennett has been a cornerstone for the Christmas trees and has brought a wealth of knowledge to the shed.
“He’s an ex-woodworking teacher and he teaches us without causing any upset.”
The Emerald Men’s Shed collaborates with the local community and Mr Connelly said they often do projects with the local primary school.
“We’ve worked with nearly every school or kindy in the district.”
The shed operates out of the Emerald Hills Hub and still has an active women’s program – all are welcome.
“I come up two or three days a week – it’s good, I potter and I make things,” Mr Connelly said.
Projects range depending on what the group are working on or what the public is bringing to them.
“We’re lucky, much of our timber is recycled and the public brings it in for us,” said Mr Connelly.
“Flooring is great and we recycle everything we can”
“We work at our own pace and get our own enjoyment out of it – we chat and talk and laugh.”
The shed is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9am to 4pm and on Saturdays from 9am to 1pm and is located at 402A Belgrave-Gembrook Rd Emerald, VIC 3782
