Men's Shed

Bridgetown’s Grumpy Old Men’s Shed now welcomes all men to join.

Bridgetown Men’s Shed, (aka The Grumpies) is one of the best well-equipped wood working sheds you will ever come across, and they are looking for new members.

They have a large table saw, planers and thicknessers, band saws, spindle moulders, drop saws, drill presses along with clamps and just about any hand tool you would ever need, as well as a dedicated spray room.

They have qualified people who can guide you on any wood working project, supervise you when using the equipment and they have the experience and knowledge you will need to complete the job well.

Really, no wood working experience is necessary. There are community projects to be involved in, where being part of a group which makes items like lending libraries, benches and recycled cabinets or repairs items like the odd broken chair or table, are projects which benefit the community, not only giving you a worthwhile feeling but also giving you a project where you can apply your newly acquired skills.

Terry Linz, the person who managed to start the ball rolling with establishing a Men’s Shed in Bridgetown explains some of its benefits.

“Men’s sheds are now recognised as a place for men to meet and make new friends, have a laugh and make a few things in the workshop.

“When Sheds first started a few eyebrows were raised when it was said men needed a place to get together with other men.

“With the shed they have a place where they can feel comfortable and confident in themselves. They may regain a renewed purpose in life.

“The Men’s Shed program has been credited with making a major contribution to the mental health and to the wellbeing of men.

“We are always looking for new members, all men are welcome to drop in to the shed and have a look at what we are doing. You never know, you might enjoy yourself and make some new friends at the same time.”

Bridgetown’s Grumpy Old Men’s Shed is not only a workshop but also a meeting place for men; some members come for the fellowship, others come to be productive, either way the members of the shed find that other members are looking out for them.

The Shed also holds a fundraising stall once a year, when bowls, chopping boards, possum boxes and bat boxes, coffee tables and other items made by members are for sale.

The work that is undertaken at the Shed is not competing against any business in town. The work includes the recycling hub at the library, furniture repair as well as community projects. The Shed has completed six street libraries which will be situated in and around Geegeelup Village.

The Shed is open Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 8am -12pm.

If you are new to town, or you are someone who would like some further information, you can call Barry on 0478 632 199.