Or perhaps you just need time out with the ‘boys’ to discuss world issues, sport or issues of concern regarding our politicians who some believe are generally getting it wrong.
Whatever the topic, the boys at Cobram Men’s Shed guarantee some stimulating conversation as the group takes a coffee or tea break around the kitchen table.
I caught up with four enthusiastic members, Alan Ransley, David Sezun, Rodney Bailey and Bill Ford last week, whose knowledge base ranges from farming to train driving and every occupation in between, and who love the atmosphere at the shed.
Since joining, they have learnt so much about what can be fashioned from wood, and about preparation, design and cutting.
Some are willing to admit they weren’t particularly good with their hands when they first came along to the shed, yet it appears they are now, and thoroughly enjoy their newfound talents.
“It gives me a great feeling to be able to make something that is useful and which people appreciate. It’s a good reason to get up in the morning,” Alan said.
“The shed’s open Mondays to Fridays from 9am-12pm and most of us come along three times a week at least.”
Currently, the chaps are working on a myna bird trap and garden boxes.
They have also created many attractive clock faces, which make an interesting and practical gift, picture frames, artist easels plus various toys for children, such as wooden trucks, trains and helicopters.
The group also proudly produces eye-catching street decorations for the town at Christmas and Halloween.
They also make rocking horses, much-loved by generations of children.
In fact, anything that can be created with wood is their thing, and they’re good at it.
Labour is free, you only need to pay for the materials if ordering something specific.
The ‘boys’ have all the necessary equipment including a laser cutter to undertake much of their work, while many items have been donated through the generosity of local businesses, together with an occasional grant from the Victorian Government.
Local builders are generous with donations of cutoffs of all types of wood for which the ‘boys’ at the shed are extremely grateful, enabling them to get started on new projects.
The ‘boys’ often have requests to restore pieces of furniture, chairs and small tables, and they do a fine job, but are not qualified antique repairers.
They are, however, adept at restoring two-wheel bicycles, much to the delight of young children.
Every day there is a different project on the go, when the ‘boys’ look forward to testing their skills and learning new ones.
While members of Cobram Men’s Shed are mostly of retirement age, there have been several younger members who, over time, have enjoyed the camaraderie of those more senior to them.
Membership is $50 per person per year and members can explore their creative senses while building friendships with those from all walks of life in a supportive environment.
Cobram Men’s Shed was founded on March 3, 1993 and today throughout Australia there are more than 1200 sheds in both city and country locations, with 50,000 members.
Members are not required to do anything if they choose. It’s a place to form strong bonds and learn from each other. It’s not a workplace.
It is a non-profit organisation that provides space to create something from nothing, just an idea that hopefully becomes a reality that the creator is ultimately proud of, and beneficial to his health and wellbeing.
“It’s a reason to get up in the morning, when you know you have nearly finished your latest creation, and you’re quite proud of it,” David said.
If there are any ‘boys’ out there in Cobram and district who would like to come along and check out the activities at the shed, at 43-45 Punt Rd, any day from Monday to Friday between 9am and 12pm, you will be made most welcome.
The members would be delighted to meet you and have a chat over tea or coffee.
Do drop in or perhaps call David Sezan on 0419 542 067 for more information.
27°C