The City of Adelaide will launch a new program designed to get people talking about everything from metal work to mental health, with the City Shed open to all DIY enthusiasts.
The community shed will be open to everyone and anyone, with men and women invited to get involved in a hands-on project.
The project was instigated and championed by the Lord Mayor’s husband, Gregg Mitchell and supported by Council.
“This isn’t just a Men’s Shed, anyone can get involved. The space will be a chance to share ideas and skills and to discuss your methods and pick up new techniques,” said Mr Mitchell.
“We would love to help out primary schools, childcare centres and community groups, repairing items or building new ones.”
Meeting every week, the group will first put their minds and skills towards making bird boxes for the Cuddlee Creek area which was destroyed by bushfire in 2019.
City Shed President Gordon Russell says the space will be more than just a workshop.
“There is a saying in the Shed movement that the most important tool in the shed is the kettle,” Mr Russell said.
“The objectives of the Shed are to advance the health and well-being of our members by providing a safe and happy environment where skilled and unskilled members can pursue hobbies, learn new skills and contribute to the community.
With backyards getting smaller, the traditional shed is harder to come by. The Adelaide City Shed will be a place to share tools whilst avoiding the costs and clean-up of doing it at home.
The Adelaide City Shed will be based in Franklin Street workshop, Makerspace, a state-of-the-art space equipped with all the necessary tools and equipment.
Adelaide Lord Mayor Sandy Verschoor said it is an important initiative.
“Whether you’re as skilled as a tradie or still learning the difference between a screwdriver and a Phillips head, I think it’s important the City Shed is open to everyone,” the Lord Mayor said.
“As we slowly return to normal practices after the impact of COVID-19, I think this project will provide a real opportunity for people to socialise and is a great alternative to the pub or sporting field.”
The City Shed will launch on Monday April 12 at Makerspace, 100 Franklin Street, Adelaide and will be open every Monday from 10am to 4pm.
