The Serpentine Jarrahdale Men’s Shed has had a busy year once again in 2024.
According to Secretary Ray Schmidt, the shire has really looked after them this year, investing considerable time and money into the shed.
A new kitchen has been installed, along with an additional hot water system.
And new LED lighting within the main workshop means “all the old blind blokes can see what they’re working on”, Ray said.
All the doors have now been widened to accommodate wheelchairs and re-hung to open outwards as per today’s standards.
But the biggest improvement has been the new disabled/gender neutral toilet block installed at the front of the main shed.
Whilst it has taken some time to reach completion, the Men’s Shed crew say the wait has certainly been worth it.
“This enables us to now ‘gut’ the old toilets and create additional work space for resin work and the laser printer, which in turn will give us space to create a lounge area at the rear of the kitchen,” Ray said.
On top of all of this, the shire has installed a new upgraded electrical mains supply into the shed to allow the installation of more equipment, and the expansion of the shed with a new approved Development Application for a stand-alone extension at the rear of the existing building.
The wait is on now for funding to be approved so construction can start early next year.
The Men’s Shed has had a busy year with projects as well.
Another six buddy benches have just been delivered to many of the schools within the shire, thanks to a project organised by Rotary, Midalia Steel, and Bendigo Bank.
“It’s great to be able to give something back to the community,” Ray said.
One of the big selling items this year has been mud kitchens.
“With 12 of them having gone out the door, we still have orders for more, but unfortunately that won’t be until next year now as we shut down for Christmas on the 12th December,” Ray explained.
“Hopefully next year we will once again be able to attend a few more markets and fairs like the Log Chop and Serpentine Food and Farm Festival and Mundijong Markets to show you all our wares and capabilities.”
