Shed nails funds for extra strength

THREE Greater Dandenong men’s sheds will be able to boost their facilities.
They have received funding from the State Government’s Strengthening Men’s Sheds Program.
The Dandenong North Men’s Shed received $25,563 to extend the existing shed, install heating and cooling and expand workbench areas.
The Springvale Multicultural Men’s Shed received $10,557 to install solar power, water tanks and a split system for cooling and heating.
It’s the first of its kind in Australia and is due to officially open its doors on 14 February.
Dandenong West Men’s Shed received $27,995 to refurbish and expand its space on the Dandenong West Primary School premises.
The shed’s co-ordinator Ivan Araujo said the space was a place to socialise for people who were unemployed or new to the country.
A retired electrician comes in every week to provide advice.
“He’s told me that it breaks his isolation. Since he’s retired he’s got no social group that he belongs to,” Mr Araujo said.
“Part of the funding as well would be to buy a lot of tools, to have free tool hire for people who sign up with the shed.
“Even a lawn mower – there’s a lot of low socioeconomic families who can’t afford a lawn mower.”