Devenish community unites to establish its first Men's Shed

Around 10 months ago, Mr Risk created a flyer asking if there was any interest in creating a local shed, and he got 70 responses.

In a town with a population of just 208, as of the last census, that represents more than a third of the population.

“I then set up a meeting in the park, and we had about 26 people turn up, and they all said ‘yep, we need one’,” Mr Risk said.

A second meeting was then arranged for August 19, where ideas were discussed and plans put in place.

“We have a location in mind,” Mr Risk said.

“Our plan is to approach GrainCorp and see if we can use their old shed, which is near the rail line, just down from the silos.

“I’ve been getting lots of help from Gary Gray, who is part of the Shepparton Men’s Shed.

“He’s helped set up sheds before, and has given me lots of information.

“It’s not just about a group of guys getting together, there’s actually lots of paperwork involved.”

Mr Risk said while the group now has 15 people officially signed up, he hopes that, at its third meeting, he gets more confirmations.

“Once we’ve got all the legal stuff done, and registered as a charity, we’ll get out ABN, and then we’ll apply to the Australian Men’s Shed Association.

“Then we just need to confirm our location.”

Mr Risk said anyone in the Devenish area looking to join can email him via fallentimbersbydave@gmail.com.