Premier Mark McGowan today joined local MP Matthew Hughes and Kalamunda residents to officially open the brand new Kalamunda Men’s Shed.
The original Men’s Shed had become too small for the 140 strong membership base, so a $298,728 Lotterywest grant helped build a brand new shed behind the original building.
The new facility separates woodworking activities from metalwork activities, providing a safer and more spacious environment. There is also greater space for joint projects involving interaction between members and the wider community, as well as increased storage capacity.
The Kalamunda Men’s Shed has a strong record of supporting not only local communities but many communities in need, such as those affected by bushfires on the east coast of Australia.
The new building will enable the Men’s Shed to provide greater support for local men’s physical and mental wellbeing through greater access to social activities.
There are currently more than 180 Men’s Sheds operating across Western Australia.
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
“There are more than 180 Men’s Sheds operating across Western Australia, and they do a wonderful job in connecting local men and encouraging them to give back to their community.
“I am pleased that the State Government, through Lotterywest, has been able to contribute to this new building.
“I look forward to seeing what great new projects members get up to in the new work space and seeing the positive effects this has on the local community.”
As stated by Kalamunda MLA Matthew Hughes:
“This new shed is the result of a lot of hard work and planning by the management committee of the Kalamunda Men’s Shed.
“I was pleased to assist by supporting the application and am very happy to see the project completed.
“It will be of huge benefit for many men who sometimes lack the social interaction they need for a healthy wellbeing.
“The Kalamunda Men’s Shed contributes significantly to the wellbeing and health of its members across the district through the fellowship it provides and its focus on the strategies inherent in the principles of act, belong, commit.
“I would encourage local residents to consider applying for membership. There’s lots on offer, including practical opportunities to contribute to a number of community based projects.”
