The newly-established Northern Gomeroi Men's Shed at Boggabilla will be able to purchase much-needed safety equipment and tools to help get them started, thanks to funding from the federal government.
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The Boggabilla Men's Shed, which only started late last year, is set to receive a total of $7,200 which will be used to purchase a first aid kit, snake bite kit, eye wash, chemical storage, safety glasses and goggles, ear muffs and safety signage, as well as hand held tools, garden equipment, battery power tools and a welder.
The new equipment will be very welcome, Northern Gomeroi chairperson Chris McGrady said.
"We're fresh starting off, so we need every support we can get," he said.
"I know it'll be ideal for the Boggabilla, Goondiwindi and Toomelah community, giving people activities to do so they don't do things they shouldn't.
"It'll also be a space where men can come and talk and have a yarn."
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Last month, the Northern Gomeroi Men's Shed received a $1200 financial assistance grant from Moree Plains Shire Council to host a community barbecue to celebrate the opening of the Men's Shed at Boggabilla.
Although the opening has been pushed back as a result of COVID-19, Mr McGrady said it will happen eventually, and when it does, he encourages everyone to come along and have a look at what they're doing.
So far there are about 15 members of the Men's Shed, but there's lots of interest from others.
The latest funding is part of the latest round of the federal government's National Shed Development Programme.
Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton said the grants range from $3,000 through to $8,000 and will be used by the Men's Sheds to buy tools and equipment and fund shed improvements.
"I've long been a proud supporter of the Men's Shed movement because sheds play a vital role supporting the health and wellbeing of men in my electorate," Mr Coulton said.
"In many parts of the bush, local Men's Sheds are fast becoming one of the most important groups - one where members make important social connections and serve their community.
"That's why I'm thrilled that five new grants will better support Men's Sheds in Cobar, Gilgandra, Lightning Ridge, Boggabilla and Warren.
"Now more than ever, Men's Sheds offer men a critical avenue for social support and engagement."
More than 6,000 men across Australia are expected to benefit from the programme, with 121 Men's Sheds receiving funding under the latest round.
The government has been supporting Men's Shed since 2013 through the National Shed Development programme. Two grant rounds are available every year - for more information, visit www.health.gov.au/initiatives-and-programs/national-shed-development-programme-nsdp
