The Westbury community is set to gain a significant new facility after construction began on a dedicated Men’s Shed at the Westbury Showgrounds. The building is funded by the Tasmanian Government.
With funding from the Tasmanian government, the Liberal Member for Lyons, Guy Barnett, and the Shed’s Vice President, David Lee, turned the first sod in February. The complex is being built by Fair Dinkum Builds and Skyline Sheds of Launceston, and is expected to be operational by 30 June. It will include recreational, woodwork and metalwork areas.
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The project has been nearly five years in the making. The concept was first raised at a public forum where 52 men expressed interest, and for the past four years Meander Valley Council has provided a temporary space at the Meander Valley Council Depot for members to gather. In that time the group has supported community activities, repaired and constructed items, and run training sessions open to the public.
The Men’s Shed model has become one of the most widely recognised approaches to addressing social isolation among men, promoting positive health and wellbeing by giving men a local and informal place to spend time engaged in manual crafts. The environment is built around encouragement and inclusivity, regardless of a member’s skill level, with a strong emphasis on learning, sharing knowledge, and working together.
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Westbury Mens Shed President Stephen Gregory says “This has been a long time coming for the men and youth of Westbury and surrounding areas. One of our members is 13 years old and attends under the NDIS scheme. We’ve seen firsthand in our current location what a space for men means to us locals, and having our own permanent home will be absolutely fantastic.”
Beyond the workshop, the Shed is a place for men to be socially active and form lasting friendships. Visitors might find younger men working alongside older members, picking up practical skills and something of the broader lessons that come with them. There will be a comfortable area where members can sit over a cup of tea or coffee, and a space where men can learn to cook for themselves.
