What started as an idea two years ago by a group of Warrigal’s Shell Cove villagers has been made possible through funding from the NSW Government’s ‘My Community Project’ grant in 2019 for the amount of $60,721.00, which allowed the group to purchase tools, machinery and equipment, such as a dust extraction system, wood and metalworking lathes.

To assist with the project, Warrigal has made part of its Oak Flats premises available as a location and paid for the building upgrade and improvements, part of which includes parking, safe and disabled access. The Shed is 12m x 15m and in addition to the fully equipped workshop has a new kitchen where less active members can enjoy conversation and a cup of tea.

Warrigal CEO, Mark Sewell said, “Warrigal is proud to be a part of this important project as the construction of the Southern Illawarra Men’s Shed would ensure the continuation of a worthwhile group that benefits the whole community.”

Now more than ever sheds offer men a critical avenue for social support and engagement. “They are an important way in which older people could learn new skills and build strong relationships, particularly into retirement,” Mark said. “Men in the Southern Illawarra will soon be able to catch up with mates and share their skills in their new shed, and I’m looking forward to hearing how SIMS makes a difference.”

Southern Illawarra Men’s Shed President, Andy Peters said, “We are thrilled to have received this level of support and on behalf of everyone who has been working so hard to see it come to life, we just want to say thank you.”

The shed has approximately 20 members at present who have been extremely busy over the last few months painting and preparing equipment for the Grand Opening to be announced soon.