Bemm River, Inverloch and Trafalgar and Warragul will benefit from a $211,000 investment by the Andrews Labor Government to create new Men’s Sheds.

Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Harriet Shing said Gippsland has 4 of 15 successful Men’s Shed projects the Andrews Labor Government announced will be built across Victoria as part of its $750,000 Men’s Shed grants round.

Funds the grant round can be used to construct a new Men’s Shed, redevelop an existing building into a Men’s Shed or co-locate a Men’s Shed in a multifunction community facility or hub.

The grants will be used to build new Men’s Sheds in Inverloch and Trafalgar and Warragul. Funds for Bemm River will be used to purchase and then convert the disused CFA building.

These projects have been prepared with extensive community consultation, and have plans to grow the involvement of local residents by building strong partnerships with other community organisations like council.

Men’s Sheds enhance the health and wellbeing of communities by reducing social isolation and promoting social inclusion.

They are a safe and friendly space where locals can learn new skills, catch up with mates and give back to the community.

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Harriet Shing

“Congratulations to the Bemm River, Inverloch and Trafalgar and Warragul shedders, this new funding will help provide a bright future for the groups to continue their activities and benefit the whole community.”

“I encourage everyone in the community to support the Men’s Sheds projects in Gippsland. They will enable people to come together in a warm, welcoming, friendly and non-judgemental environment.”

“Men’s Sheds facilitate the coming together of community, enable people to learn new skills and have a laugh at the same time. They are often an antidote to the vulnerability we sometimes see in people in regional communities like Gippsland.”

“The Andrews Labor Government is proud to support Men’s Sheds – they play an important role in building inclusive and vibrant Victorian communities.”