SHED MATES: Phil Crossing, left, and Chris Wright were among a special working bee last weekend to prepare for the impending completion of works to the Tamworth Men’s Shed at Victoria Park. Photo: Geoff O’Neill 160313GOC01
A WORKING bee last weekend and a sizable cheque donation from Masonicare-West has kicked building work along for the Tamworth Men’s Shed group.
Spokesman and chairman of the committee Reverend Chris Wright said the shed should be in operation by about mid-year with a couple of big projects to the building set to begin soon.
Reverend Wright said a couple of “big ticket items” were on the drawing board now, including completing the septic waste system and getting an awning erected on the side of the shed.
“And we’re hoping we’re on a winner. We applied for a state grant and if we only get half of what we asked for, we will nearly be there in terms of having the money to complete our works,” Reverend Wright said.
The group also needs to finish the fitting-out inside and finish the bathroom and connect the power.
Reverend Wright said donations had come from various groups and individuals to help get to where they are.
“People have been very kind,” he said.
The men’s shed is being built at Victoria Park, alongside the botanic gardens and the miniature railway complex in North Tamworth and the entire project is costing more than $100,000.
The organisation has won the support of the Tamworth Regional Council and other organisations. The latest big dollop to the coffers was from the regional manager of Masonicare-West, David Robertson, who presented a cheque for $4000 to Reverend Wright earlier this month.
The shed, 12 metres by 18 metres, plus verandahs, is designed to bring together men of all ages to share skills, swap ideas, solve problems and create friendships.
Members, who will pay a nominal annual membership fee, will be able to use the shed and its extensive stock of electrical and other tools for a variety of woodwork and hobbies seven days a week.
The shed holds working bees there every third Saturday morning from 9 o’clock and people interested in helping are invited to assist.