Page 13 - Possible Magazine Issue 8 EMAG

HEAD TO THE SHED
Ireally like the friendly atmosphere, and the woodwork. But mostly I like chatting with the blokes,” Les says.
He started at the Pine Rivers Men’s Shed in Queensland about six months ago after Sue, his Just Better Care Support Advisor, suggested he might enjoy it.
Les was a little hesitant at
first, not knowing much about the organisation. A few months on, he no longer needs Sue to drop him there when she pops around in the morning. Now, a couple of his mates from the shed run him in.
Twice a week, Les arrives at his local shed at 7.30am. He worked for Pauls Milk for 35 years, 16 of which were on nightshift, but still, he’s not
loving those early starts. The morning tea is good, though.
“It’s worth it just for the food,”
he says cheekily. “But I do really love getting out, having a chat and seeing what people are up to.”
According to David Helmers, executive officer at Men’s Shed Australia, Les is one of 150,000 Australian men who have joined a Men’s Shed. There are currently 1033 sheds around the country.
“Men’s Shed is about normal, everyday blokes having a great time together,” says David. “They’re doing what they’d want to be doing if they weren’t in the shed, but they’re doing it among local community members, belonging to something good.”
Men’s Sheds are community
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