Dr Gillespie announced $3800 would be made available to Wingham Men’s Shed for the expansion of power and lighting and linings for the enclosed extension and $6500 to install a new solar power system at the Harrington Men’s Shed.

The grants are part of $400,000 in national funding provided to more than 100 Men’s Shed’s across Australia.

“Men’s Sheds provide a place where men are able to work on meaningful projects at their own pace in their own time and gather together in a safe, friendly and inclusive environment,” Dr Gillespie said.

“They reduce social isolation, strengthen communities and contribute to improvements in the health of individual men, particularly the mental health of retired and older men.”

Under the National Shed Development Programme, all Men’s Sheds in Australia can apply for up to $8,000 in funding, with priority given to sheds in rural and remote areas and in areas of disadvantage.

The Australian Men’s Shed Association (AMSA) manages the National Shed Development Program. AMSA will open the next round of funding for men’s sheds shortly.

Details can be found at www.mensshed.org

Any enquires on the application process for the programme can be directed to AMSA via email at amsa@mensshed.net or phone 1300 550 009.

Pictured: Federal MP David Gillespie with Wingham Men’s Shed members Ray Baker, Bill Freeman (secretary) and Bob Brown.