Clifton Springs Community Men’s Shed Inc.
45 Central Road, Clifton Springs Vic 3222
The Beginning
Mid October 2007, four men having a coffee and chat, whilst waiting on wives to complete a craft activity, it was decided to form an activity for men—hence a Men’s Shed was conceived with news circulated and within weeks more had joined and an interim steering committee formed.
Evolution 2008 -2009
Venue. Temporarily in a small garage for wood and metal work. Kettle was boiled in a nearby hall which also had ablution facilities.
Vision statement, purpose/concept statements documented.
Legalities. Shed formally incorporated under Victorian law, gained Deductible Gift Recipient status (i.e. a registered charity)
“Memo of understanding” with Central Baptist Church negotiated, documented and signed to use shedding at the rear of church property.
Seed funding from Portarlington/Drysdale Lions Club.
Foundation member of Barwon Cluster of Men’s Sheds.
August 2009 our inaugural AGM and formalised Committee of Management.
Membership 30.
Growth 2010-2011
Construction of a large workshop researched, budgeted, plans, council permits, contractor quotes and approval from Church (owner of the land) obtained.
Grants from Victorian Govt “Men’s Shed Development Programme” along with financial support from Bendigo Band and Cosmopolitan Chapter of Freemasons.
Upgrade of social area, including a kitchen, plus connection of water, sewage and upgrade electricity—done by members who were suitably skilled and accredited.
Construction of workshop shed commenced Nov 2010, finished in 5 weeks. Members proceed to build workbenches, install sound proofing and install new and existing equipment. Official opening June 2011.
Consolidation 2011-2013
Membership grows to about 55 and fundraising and community activities expand.
Royal Children’s Hospital – wooden toys made and donated.
Drysdale Grove Aged Care—“Outback Shed” built on site and regular visits.
Wombats Wish Children’s Support—memento boxes for children’s camps.
Geelong Hospital – Neo natal cot and iPads for inpatients.
Clifton Springs Primary School—outdoor classroom and friendship seat.
And many more.
Of course, other activities continued— guest speakers, excursions, visits to other Sheds, sausages sizzles at Aldi, etal.
Members Survey “Why join a Men’s Shed” 2013
Responses many and varied (some will not be reiterated).”retired not working” “the missus told me “great first impression and friendliness”, “variety of activities” ,“ got involved in stuff I didn’t know I could do”, “enjoy just sitting and chatting” etc.
Our Shed today 2014 onward
Today our Shed, along with Sheds within Barwon region, have gone from strength to strength. Facilities have grown, and continue to evolve, to cater for changing needs and member growth over time.
Regular fundraising at community BBQ’s, local weekend markets, outreach programmes continue, assisting local charities, education and support groups.
Many a local charity or neighbourhood organisation / resident have benefited from works/ repairs, carried out by our Shed members.
Clifton Springs Community Men’s Shed is, and will continue to, focus upon being a place where men gather, share thoughts and offer camaraderie to address issues relating to men’s health and wellbeing in our community.