Bermagui Men’s Shed upgrade for community

A NSW Government-funded upgrade of the Bermagui Men’s Shed has provided a better facility for members and a multi-use facility for the community.

A $161,745 stimulus upgrade from Crown Lands in the Department of Planning and Environment saw the construction of a new air conditioned 12m x 12m building with an adjoining veranda over a concrete slab on local Crown land.

The new building is insulated for comfort in summer and winter and has two 19-kilowatt split air conditioners installed.

A new kitchen is fitted with appliances including a dishwasher, wall ovens, five-burner induction hotplate and a refrigerator, and also has new donated cupboards. The adjoining veranda and concrete slab with outside furniture provides a place where members can sit for a cup of coffee and a chat.

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said the upgrades have provided an improved men’s shed as well as a shared meeting and recreation room and a kitchen, providing an asset that can be used by the wider Bermagui community for education, training, meetings and social events.

“Men’s sheds do a fantastic job supporting residents by providing safe and friendly environments to socialise, share skills and work on projects, so a shared facility like this is a great investment in community health,” Mr Kamper said.

Bermagui Men’s Shed Secretary Bill Johnston said the organisation has also separately upgraded its carpark and access road to support its 35 members and other community users.

“The place is looking beautiful. Groups that have so far used the facility include Probus Bermagui, Marine Rescue, and the University of the Third Age,” Mr Johnston said.

The Australian Men’s Shed Association (AMSA) is the national service provider supporting more than 1,200 Sheds across Australia. Men’s sheds have become a powerful tool in supporting health and wellbeing by allowing members to be valued and productive members of the community.