Yass Valley Men’s Shed welcomes $5000 from Federal Government

YVMS president Bob Nash said it was the first time they were awarded a grant under this programme.

“It’s a positive for us. I thought to myself that we may not get it,” Mr Nash said.

“The grant is a benefit for the shed’s members and the wider community,” he said.

The grant will be used to update and purchase new machinery and tools for the shed.

“This includes a second dust extractor, as well as other bits and pieces. As part of the grant application, we gave them a list of what we needed,” Mr Nash said.

Senator for NSW and Eden-Monaro local, Jim Molan, today congratulated YVMS for its successful application for the grant.

“Like similar sheds across Australia, the Yass Valley shed offers great benefits to any local men who need a bit of space and some friendly, easy-going company,” Senator Molan said.

“The Turnbull Government recognises these benefits and is providing a total of $5.1 million over three years to the national men’s sheds movement.”

In addition to new tools and equipment, YVMS will conduct training and community projects.

“Men are talking about their health more and more, and the men’s shed provides a safe and friendly environment for them to do so.

“Men’s sheds are integral to the community and the benefits to men’s health are widely acknowledged,” Senator Molan said.

In 2016, the rate of suicide among Australian males was more than three times that of females.

Heath Minister Greg Hunt said although mental illness affects both men and women, men are less likely to seek help or talk about their feelings. 

“Feeling part of a social group is important to our emotional and mental health and every day Men’s Sheds around the country provide men with an opportunity for companionship,” Minister Hunt said.

The grants programme provides funding for health improvement activities, the purchase of tools and equipment, community projects and training, and for building maintenance and development.