To discuss stories contribution please contact the team at admin@mensshedswa.org.au
Credit to Gordon MacGilp for producing the magazine
Image credits
Cover: Rhiannon Arnold
Page 6 – 7: Provided by CY O’Connor
Men’s Shed
Page 8 – 9: Our Veterans Forge
Page 10: (background Image) Skydive Jurien Bay
Page 11 – 13: Jurien Bay Community
Men’s Shed
Page 14: (background) Men’s Sheds of WA, (callout) Rhiannon Arnold
Page 16 – 17: Provided by Chris Fisher
Page 18: Provided by Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (stock image)
Page 20: Rhiannon Arnold
Page 22 – 23: Rhiannon Arnold
Page 24 – 25: Provided by Motorcycle Men’s Shed
Page 26: (background) James Campbell photograhy
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SHEDS WA
Hello from the Sheds WA team!
It’s been a big year already for the Men’s Sheds of WA team as we hit the road for our 2025 Shed Connect Tour. In response to feedback from across the network, this year we’ve shifted our focus from the biennial conference to more onthe-ground engagement, doubling the number of ‘Zone Meetings’ and regional Shed visits. So far, we’ve had the pleasure of connecting nearly 200 Shedders across 37 Sheds and it’s still early May!
Recently, I had the opportunity to join the Shed Connect Tour at Merredin, Northam and Cockburn. While I was having my blood pressure measured as part of a free Pit Stop Health Check by the Regional Men’s Health Initiative, I was struck by a few things. I looked around the room and saw our fantastic, newly expanded team talking to the Shed members. What a resource we now have supporting Sheds— bringing together professionals in mental health and wellbeing, Shed management and governance, communications, and funding. Second, that this team extends well beyond those employed by Men’s Sheds of WA. It includes our valued
partners like the Regional Men’s Health Initiative, Carbatec and of course, the Sheds themselves. The knowledge and experience shared by Shed members and leaders at these events is immense, and it’s clear that when we work together, we’re stronger.
This year, the Shed Connect Tour will also take us to the Pilbara and Kimberley— regions where Sheds don’t always have the chance to attend central events. While in these areas, we’ll be engaging with local governments and promoting the significant value of Men’s Sheds across Western Australia.
The Shed Connect Tour is all about sharing expertise, building relationships, and ensuring that no Shed is left unsupported. We look forward to connecting with more Sheds in the months ahead, and we thank every Shed that has already welcomed us so warmly.
James Wild CEO, Men’s Sheds of WA
Friendship, Flour and Fun: CY O’Connor Men’s Shed Brings Community Together
By Rhiannon Arnold
The CY O’Connor Men’s Shed is proving that community connection doesn’t have to be boring or predictable. From pineapple cakes to platonic speed dating, the Shed has been busy with a series of creative activation events aimed at boosting social interaction and growing membership. The result? A livelier, more inclusive space where locals of all ages feel welcome.
One of the most popular recent events was Finding Fast Friends, a speed dating-style evening with a twist. Held on Monday 7 April from 5–7pm, the Shed welcomed 30 attendees ranging in age from 21 to 92. Instead of looking for romance, participants were there to forge new friendships through five rapid-fire 10-minute chats. Two rounds kicked off the evening, followed by a pizza break and three more friendly rotations.
Conversation cards with quirky prompts helped spark laughter and deeper chats. Questions ranged from “What was the format of the first album you bought?” to “What’s your favourite way of eating potatoes?”
“It made it interesting and gave us something else to talk about,” one participant said. “All the games and questions were excellent,” another added.
“Instead of just coming and doing your job, having a cup of tea, you become more socialised. It adds an extra dimension and a bit of variety.”
Even quieter members took notice. “One of our quiet members asked me how it went and was disappointed not to have come along,” said an organiser. With glowing feedback and a room full of energy, the
Shed is already planning the next Finding Fast Friends event.
Another highlight in the Shed’s new calendar of community-driven fun is the quarterly Bake-Off. The most recent event saw about 20 people take part, with five bakers bringing their best to the table. One participant ticked “baking” off his bucket list for the first time, while another kept it simple with a three-ingredient pineapple cake. Everyone in the room got to taste and score the entries, adding to the sense of fun and inclusion.
The Bake-Off is set to become a seasonal staple, with each quarter featuring a new theme. Next up: Pies. A trophy will be awarded each quarter and an overall baking champion will be crowned at the end of the year.
“We’ve seen from our events our average membership attendance per month has increased, which is really encouraging,” said Cheryl, Community Services Coordinator for the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Shire.
The CY O’Connor Men’s Shed is quickly becoming a model for how creative programming and community partnerships can revitalise Shed spaces. From quirky question cards to bake-off bragging rights, the Shed is not just a place to work on projects—it’s a place to make connections, share stories, and have a laugh.
This Shed’s approach is a reminder that sometimes, all it takes to bring people together is a slice of cake and a good conversation.
Our Veterans Forge (OVF)Perth, Western Australia
By Rod Hoare
In Perth, on Australia’s west coast, lies a haven where steel meets stories, and healing takes shape one hammer strike at a time. OVF, founded on resilience and camaraderie, stands as a testament to the transformative power of craftsmanship and community.
When it all began, OVF was a labour of love, self-funded with little more than a vision and a few essential tools. Paddy Baker, a seasoned veteran with 14 years of service under his belt, alongside Nigel Danson with 15 years of service, embarked on a mission to create a sanctuary for veterans and first responders. Their goal was simple yet profound: to provide a space where those struggling with PTSD and other challenges could find solace, purpose, and connection. “We started off small, working with what we had,” they recall, reminiscing about the early days. “We could make BBQ tools, jewellery — it wasn’t just about knives. It was about creating something meaningful together.”
From the outset, they collaborated closely with clinical psychologists and psychiatrists specialising in veteran care, ensuring that every program and activity was underpinned by expert guidance. OVF quickly became a refuge, welcoming anyone with PTSD, whether through the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) or Open Arms.
OVF initially operated off base but due to restrictions, they are now setting up on base. Plans are underway to expand to other sites and collaborating with Ex-Service
organisations like SAS Association and various RSL’s to establish more accessible locations. The vision is to create fully operational sites at various locations where veterans can gather, work on projects, and build lasting bonds.
Central to their ethos is volunteerism — no one at OVF draws a salary. “Everyone here gives their time because they believe in what we’re doing,” Nigel explains proudly. “We’re supported by a growing community of veterans who’ve benefited from our programs and now come back to lend a hand.”
Funding, crucial for their operations, has come from diverse sources. Donations, including a significant $17k grant from the ANZAC Trust WA, has covered essential supplies like PPE, steel, and grinding belts. Generous contributions have also come from the DVA of over $42k, SAS Resources Trust $15k, and various other community groups. This funding has enabled them to expand their sites with 16 grinders, 6 inverter forges (gas forges are not allowed on base), along with anything else needed. “We operate like a family here,” Paddy says, highlighting the community’s spirit. “Every donation, every membership fee — they’re invested back into the forge, ensuring we can continue our mission.”
The heart of OVF beats in its programs. Their flagship 12 week course, funded by the DVA, offers participants a structured journey through knifemaking and craftsmanship. “It’s not just about making
knives,” Paddy emphasises, “It’s about building confidence, reclaiming skills, and rediscovering purpose.”
Participants start with basic projects, gradually advancing to other things including kydex, leatherwork and eventually damascus knives. Each session is carefully crafted to accommodate individuals needs, whether adjusting tasks for physical limitations or fostering a supportive environment for open dialogue.
Beyond structured courses, OVF works with different community groups with events like the ANZAC shoot at Jarrahdale and an ANZAC ice hockey game, raising funds and awareness. They envision a future where their model expands to other ADF bases across Australia, ensuring that every veteran has access to the support they need post-service.
“At the core of what we do is empathy and understanding,” Paddy muses. “We’ve all been through it. We know the struggles and the victories. That’s what makes this place special.”
As OVF continues to grow, Paddy, Nigel and the team remain committed to their mission: to forge bonds, restore lives, and provide a sanctuary where veterans can find their path forward. “Creativity is food for the soul,” Paddy’s father used to say, a sentiment that rings true in every blade forged and every story shared at Veterans Forge.
In the quiet serenity of their forge, the whole team are writing a new chapter for veterans — one of healing, hope, and endless possibilities. “We see incredible transformations,” Paddy reflects. “From quiet beginnings to confident artisans, the journey is as much about mental health as it is about craftsmanship.”
To purchase a copy of the Australian and New Zealand Knifemaking magazine visit this website: www.knifeimages.art
Hoare, Rod (2024). Australian and New Zealand Knifemaking 2025. Knifemaking and Mental Health Benefits, (96-105).
Jurien Bay Men’s Shed Hosts a Blockbuster 2025 Easter Family Fair
by Jurien Bay Community Men’s Shed
The Jurien Bay Community Men’s Shed once again demonstrated the power of community spirit and volunteer effort, delivering an outstanding 2025 Easter Family Fair on Saturday, April 19. Held at the Jurien Bay Recreation Centre and Oval, this alcohol-free, family-focused event attracted a crowd of approximately 2,000 people — their biggest yet.
Over the past nine years, the event has undergone a significant transformation. Originally launched as a beer and wine festival held each October, the fair has evolved into an Easter celebration with something for all ages. In 2025, that transformation came into full bloom with a renewed focus on families and children, made possible thanks to the generous support of sponsors and tireless efforts from Shed members.
The fair featured an extensive market with stalls offering arts, crafts, homemade goods, local produce, natural health products, fashion, and more. Complementing the market was a diverse selection of food and drink vendors,
ensuring there was something for every taste. The Jurien Bay Men’s Shed band, made up of talented local musos, entertained the crowd with live music throughout the day.
But the highlight for many families was the wide range of free activities provided for children. Thanks to sponsorship funding exceeding $12,500, all kids’ entertainment was completely free of charge — no small feat in a regional town, where costs for attractions can be double those in metropolitan areas due to travel, accommodation, staffing, and insurance.
This year’s children’s offerings were bigger and better than ever, featuring four Monsterball inflatable challenges, a gemstone hunt, Penny’s Ocean Fables storytelling and colouring, Bloom Face Painting, Old McDonald’s Farm petting zoo, Ranger Red’s Australian wildlife zoo, and a range of indoor games. The delighted faces of children racing from one activity to the next made it clear: these experiences were the heart of the fair.
Of course, no Easter event would be complete without a visit from the Easter Bunny — and the Jurien Bay event didn’t disappoint. Thanks to the exceptional team at Skydive Jurien Bay, the Easter Bunny made a sky-high entrance, parachuting onto the oval in front of more than 1,000 spectators, including over 600 excited children. The Bunny was greeted with cheers and laughter before distributing over 2,000 free Easter eggs with help from the dedicated Men’s Shed volunteers.
A huge part of the fair’s success lies in the support received from the broader community and generous sponsors. The Jurien Bay Community Men’s Shed said their ‘deepest thanks go to Mineral Resources, our major sponsor, along
with Iluka Resources, Image Resources, Tronox, APA Group, and the Shire of Dandaragan. Their support enabled us to provide quality entertainment for local families without cost — an extraordinary gift for our community’.
Local businesses also did what they could to support the event. Every business the Shed approached contributed to the Monster Easter Raffle, providing a terrific prize pool that helped drive strong ticket sales. The Jurien Bay Community Resource Centre also generously supported the Shed with promotional materials and advertising — an essential ingredient in drawing such a fantastic crowd.
Shed President Geoff Bunn reflected on the day with pride:
“This was perhaps the biggest event we’ve hosted to date. Everything ran smoothly, the weather was perfect, and most importantly, everyone had a great time. Seeing so many children enjoying themselves made all the hard work worthwhile. We are incredibly thankful to all our sponsors and supporters — you’ve helped us deliver something truly special for our town.”
As always, it’s the volunteers who formed the backbone of this event. Members of the Jurien Bay Community Men’s Shed dedicated countless hours to planning, coordination, and set-up. From managing logistics to manning stalls and helping children enjoy the day, their commitment and teamwork were on full display.
This event is an example of what a strong, community-minded organisation like the Men’s Shed can achieve. With support from sponsors, local businesses, and residents, they’ve created a safe, inclusive, and joyful celebration that reflects the spirit of Jurien Bay.
To everyone who donated time, energy, money, or encouragement — thank you. The 2025 Easter Family Fair was a success because of you. The Shed is look forward to making it even bigger and better in years to come.
Meet the Team: Richard McAllister, Chaplain and Senior Project Officer
By Men’s Sheds of WA
How did you become the chaplain?
In 2019 I was approached by Morris of Men’s Sheds to put up my hand for a new role as their chaplain. Morris told me that it was a generously paid position with mileage money and expenses to boot. My goal of paying for my retirement was in hand. One trip to Kununurra with my caravan was worth over $16K plus expenses and if I managed to swing past Kalgoorlie on the way home, $20K plus. I was in heaven. However, Saint Paul, who wrote ‘the love of money is the root of all evil’ must have supernaturally appeared to the Board Chair Trevor Taylor, who, at our first meeting bought me down to earth. ‘The role is voluntary, but we will pay mileage money, for example from
Broome Caravan Park to Broome Men’s Shed and return:’ a total of 6km @ .62c/km, grand total $3.72. I immediately said yes to his generous offer and the rest is history.
What is your main role?
For many people the title of ‘chaplain’ can bring to mind religious support. Our work goes far beyond that. It doesn’t matter which faith a chaplain comes from we’re all there to help, to offer support to people in times of need or crisis. In schools, hospitals, prisons, the military, and even corporate settings, we provide a safe, confidential space for people to process grief, stress, or moral dilemmas. I’ve loved my role as chaplain for Men’s Sheds. Men aren’t known for sharing our feelings or concerns; but you’d be amazed at how many of our Sheds have created positive, supportive environments where members feel safe to open up.
The bottom line is that I, along with a fantastic team, help Sheds enhance and even save lives by assisting them to care for their members physical, mental, emotional, social, intellectual and especially spiritual wellbeing and health and to get them to care for themselves and each other. To maximise the effectiveness of such an approach, we promoted the concept of Wellbeing and Health Officers (WHO’s) in each Shed. WHO do you go to for help? This has since been taken up by the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing as a funding prerequisite across all states and territories.
What has been the response of Sheds to having a Men’s Shed chaplain?
Overwhelmingly positive. Obviously, they love to take the ‘mickey’ out of me from time to time but from the reception I get when I visit, call or are called, I would say I’m appreciated and absolutely worth the money I’m paid. As I often say, ‘As a minister I was paid to be good, now I am good for nothing.’ But even that has changed over the past year as I have taken on a larger role in Shed governance and dispute mediation. I’m back to being paid for being good, at least part of the time.
Have you had any debates or even arguments concerning your beliefs?
One thing I have found consistent over the last 6 plus years is that some of the people that love to debate with you are those who declare themselves atheists. Straight up, they want you to know their beliefs: ‘Hi, my name’s Tom, and I’m an atheist.’ I love talking to these guys. They are genuine, passionate about what they believe but also good natured in how they express it. Some of them have more faith that is there is nothing beyond the grave than a lot of Christians I know that believe there is something beyond the grave. Finally, why is being a chaplain so important to you?
It’s an opportunity to offer hope especially to those who are battling life situations that drain people’s hope and cause hopelessness in its many forms. But it is a chance to listen to blokes’ stories, gather together to find solutions to challenges and to have a bit of fun. I never thought I would become a
church minister but at the age of 21, in my darkest hopeless moment watching my wife’s coffin burn on a Balinese funeral pyre, God supernaturally gave me hope. Ten years later I attended Bible College and became a pastor. When I ‘retired’ after thirty years I began a charity called Parakletos, which in ancient Greek means ‘coming alongside to help.’ When Trevor Taylor asked me to come alongside Men’s Sheds of WA to help, I thought ‘I think I could do that’ and here I am.
Have you helped?
I think I have in a small way but that’s not up to me to judge. However, if when I get to heaven and there in one corner is a Men’s Shed filled with blokes that I have met as a chaplain then I will be somewhat satisfied. If all the atheists that I have wrestled with are there as well, then I will be over the moon, which, as we all know, is where heaven is located. What will they be doing, you might ask? Playing the harp? No way, they will be building a life size replica of Noah’s Ark.
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Not Dead, Can’t Quit: the story of Chris Fisher, Patron of the UK Men’s Sheds Association
By Rhiannon Arnold
There’s a quiet revolution happening in Sheds across the UK — and it’s changing lives.
In a deeply personal and passionate interview, woodturner and mental health advocate Chris Fisher — known to many as the Blind Woodturner — shared why he proudly serves as the inaugural patron of UK Men’s Sheds. For Chris, this isn’t just a title. It’s a calling rooted in lived experience, compassion, and the unwavering belief in second chances.
“I’d just been through five years of absolute hell,” Chris said.
“I nearly didn’t live to tell the tale because of my mental health.”
That honesty is part of what makes his connection to the Men’s Sheds movement so powerful — and why he said ‘yes’ without hesitation when asked to become patron. Because he knows firsthand what it means to find purpose again.
Chris Fisher has carved an extraordinary path in the world of woodworking, transforming personal adversity into a source of inspiration for many. Born in 1969 in Eccles, Manchester, Chris’s life took a dramatic turn in 2008 when, at the
age of 39, he lost his sight over a mere four weeks due to Toxoplasmosis. This abrupt transition marked a challenging period marked by anxiety, hallucinations, and muscle spasms.
Determined not to be defined by his blindness, Chris embarked on a self-taught journey into woodturning. Immersing himself in over 600 hours of YouTube tutorials, he mastered the craft without the aid of sight. By 2014, he completed his first commission, and by 2018, he had established himself as a full-time, self-employed woodturner. His dedication and skill led him to become the UK’s only completely blind professional woodturner and the first to be accepted onto the Register of Professional Turners.
At its core, the Men’s Sheds initiative isn’t just about woodworking or fixing things. It’s about building people back up. In Chris’s words, “It is a lifeline. It is a community. It is friendship. It is skill. It is knowledge.”
Founded to combat social isolation and foster wellbeing, especially among older men, the Men’s Sheds offer more than just sawdust and banter. They are a place for men to share skills, talk, laugh, and
quietly support one another through tough times. And for Chris, who went blind and experienced severe anxiety, being able to create again became the “greatest therapy” imaginable.
In January 2020, Chris’s commitment to community and craftsmanship was further recognized when he was appointed as the inaugural Patron of the UK Men’s Sheds Association (UKMSA). The UKMSA is a charity that champions the Men’s Sheds movement, aiming to combat isolation and loneliness by empowering local communities through shared interests and collaborative projects.
Chris’s message isn’t just about survival — it’s about inclusivity. He challenges all Sheds to extend their reach, to consider accessibility not as a burden but as a chance to offer someone a lifeline.
“A wheelchair ramp, a grab handle — these aren’t big asks,” he says. “They’re little changes that could mean the world to someone.”
His call to action is rooted in empathy: “When someone walks through your door — anxious, bereaved, disabled — you might be giving them a reason to keep going. You
might see them smile for the first time in years. That’s what you’re doing. It matters on an epic scale.”
Chris’s belief in the potential of every individual is infectious. Quoting physicist Michio Kaku, he reminds us that “everyone is born a genius.” But life, with its social parameters and unexpected turns, can cloud that potential. The Men’s Sheds? They help rekindle it.
Beyond his woodworking, Chris is a soughtafter speaker, sharing his journey to inspire resilience and determination. His message is clear: challenges can be transformed into opportunities, and with the right support and mindset, individuals can surpass perceived limitations. He shared this message globally as well, including when he spoke at the Men’s Sheds of WA State Conference in 2021.
And for those wondering “what’s in it for us?” his answer is beautifully simple: “Helping someone — that’s what’s in it for you.”
In a world that often feels disconnected, Chris Fisher’s message is a powerful reminder of the impact community can have. “Love every minute,” he says, “and remember: not dead, can’t quit.”
Focus on Health: Prostate Awareness
A simple PSA test could save your life
By Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia
Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia is encouraging eligible men across the Men’s Shed network to get checked for prostate cancer, with 1 in 5 men at risk of developing the disease in their lifetime.
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Western Australia, with around 2,000 new cases diagnosed each year, representing around 16% of all cancer cases in the state and nearly 1 in 3 of all cancers among men.
Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia Head of Telenursing and Supportive Care Programs Bernie Riley said early detection was key to saving lives.
“There are a lot of common misconceptions when it comes to prostate cancer but it’s important that all men understand their risk and testing options,” Mr Riley said.
“Key risk factors can include age, and if you have a family history of the disease.
“So, we encourage all men over the age of 40 to discuss their risks with a GP and to consider having a PSA test today.
“The PSA is a simple and non-invasive blood test, which provides you with a reading of how much prostate specific antigen you have in your blood serum.
“If your PSA is still elevated after a repeat blood test, you should be referred to a specialist for more tests.
“While prostate cancer rarely has symptoms at an early stage, symptoms often present as the disease advances, and may include changes and/or problems with urination, pain or unexpected weight loss or tiredness.
Mr Riley said that a PSA blood test was the first-line defence in the early detection of prostate cancer.
“If we detect prostate cancer early, the five-year survival rate is nearly 100%.
For men diagnosed at Stage 4, five-year relative survival drops to just 36%. PSA testing improves the likelihood of an early diagnosis,” he said.
“If anyone is diagnosed, we’re here to help.
“We have Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses available via telehealth and located in centres across the country, including 15 Specialist Nurses in Western Australia.
“In addition, we have a wide network of Support Groups, including 23 in WA, and evidence-based information and resources that men can access.
“No two prostate cancers are the same. Around 80% of Australian men with lowrisk prostate cancers undergo Active Surveillance, while those with intermediate, high risk or metastatic prostate cancers typically undergo treatments that may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or nuclear medicine treatment.”
PCFA has a prostate cancer Toolkit available via www.prostate.org.au that men and partners can access to find out more about their risk factors, PSA testing and treatment options.
For more information or support, Australians can also reach out to PCFA’s Prostate Cancer Specialist Nursing Service, by calling 1800 22 00 99.
Focus on Health: Prostate Awareness
(left to right) Ross Ainsworth, Tony Mullen, Nigel Sills, Thomas Kickett, Michael Christopher.
No Symptoms, No Worries?
Think Again
By Fiona Peters
From Diagnosis to Recovery – With a Little Help from the Shed
When Nigel Sills (63) from York Shed was diagnosed with prostate cancer, it came as a complete shock. “I had no symptoms at all,” he says. “I only found out because I went for a regular check-up. If I hadn’t, I might still not know.”
Nigel is now sharing his story to encourage other blokes to get checked. He knows that many men put off their health checks, but he wants to remind others that early detection can make all the difference.
to stay positive all the time, but having that mental attitude really helps keep you stronger.”
York Shed President Michael Christopher acknowledged how challenging the experience was — something that would be tough for anyone to go through. “We knew it wasn’t easy, so the blokes at the Shed did what we could — kept him distracted and found things to keep him busy. We’re all really pleased to see him well into his recovery and back on the tractor, doing what he does best. The great thing is, because of Nigel’s experience, a few of the other fellas went and got themselves checked out too — so there’s definitely a silver lining.”
Two days after coming out of hospital, Nigel joined the Men’s Sheds of WA Zone Meeting at Northam — not out of obligation, but because being around his mates gave him strength. “The Shed gave me something to look forward to, and it really helped me stay positive,” he says. “I’ve also had incredible support from my wife — I couldn’t have done it without her, or without my brothers Nick and Wob, and my lifelong mate Tony back in England. Tony’s been an enormous support, even while going through his own battle with cancer.”
Nigel really believes a positive mindset played a big role in his recovery. “It’s hard
Health Tips
Through his recovery, the conversations, laughs, and quiet support from the Shed community made a real difference. Nigel hopes that by sharing his experience, other men will take their health seriously — and lean on their mates when they need it. Nigel added: “It’s not always easy to talk about, but the support is there if you reach out. Get yourself checked – it could save your life.”
• Get regular check-ups – especially if you’re over 50, or over 40 with a family history.
• Don’t wait for symptoms – prostate cancer often has none in the early stages.
• Talk to your GP – a simple blood test (PSA) is the first step.
• Stay connected – mates, your partner, and your local Shed can all help you through.
Support & further info
• Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia – Call 1800 22 00 99 or visit www.pcfa.org.au.
• Cancer Council WA – Call 13 11 20 for information and support or visit www.cancerwa.asn.au/
• Healthdirect Australia – Call 1800 022 222 for 24/7 health advice or visit www.healthdirect.gov.au.
Men’s Sheds of WA Hits the Road with 2025 Shed Connect Tour
By Rhiannon Arnold
In an exciting expansion of the annual Zone Meetings, Men’s Sheds of WA has launched the 2025 Shed Connect Tour — a state-wide initiative designed to reach and connect with more Sheds than ever before. By dividing some of the existing Zones into smaller areas, the team has aimed to reduce drive times, improving safety and accessibility, while ensuring more Shedders have the opportunity to engage in person.
Already, the Shed Connect Tour has made a strong start, with four Zone Meetings held across regional Western Australia and one metro meeting in Cockburn. Merredin hosted the first on 8 April, followed by Northam on 9 April, Dongara on 29 April, and Bindoon on 1 May. So far, the tour has connected with 37 Sheds and almost 200 Shedders!
More than just a meeting, each event offers a chance for Shedders to come together, exchange ideas, and strengthen the fabric of the Men’s Shed movement. Presentations have included sessions on What Makes a Thriving Shed, how to navigate and resolve conflict, and guest speakers sharing their
knowledge and stories. The emphasis is on learning, sharing, and celebrating the important work being done by Sheds throughout WA.
“The Shed Connect Tour is such an incredible opportunity to hear from the Sheds, learn from each other, and continue to grow the Men’s Shed movement,” says the Men’s Sheds of WA team. “It’s not just about delivering information — it’s about building relationships and recognising the strength of the community we’re all part of.”
One of the most exciting features of this year’s tour is the commitment to head further north than ever before, with the Pilbara and Kimberley regions next on the map. These regional Sheds have often missed out on previous Biennial Conferences and Zone Meetings due to their distance. The 2025 tour changes that, ensuring that even the most remote Sheds have a chance to participate, contribute, and be recognised.
In a significant shift, the expanded tour will replace the Biennial Conference this year,
with a focus on getting out to as many Sheds as possible across the state. It’s a move that reflects the core values of the Men’s Shed community — accessibility, inclusion, and connection.
More Shed Connect Meetings are in the works, with the next scheduled to take
place in the Perth Metro area. Details will be announced soon, so make sure your Shed is subscribed to the Men’s Sheds of WA mailing list to receive updates and invitations.
Riding for Mental Health
By Kelvin Blundell
Perth’s Motorcycle Men’s Shed recently teamed up with an East Coast group of mental health professionals called Psychs on Bikes on their motorcycle tour through Western Australia’s Great Southern Region.
After a motorcycle ride across the Nullarbor Plain with a couple of his colleagues in 2011, Psychiatrist Dr Joe Dunn decided to combine his love of motorcycle touring and mental health and formed Psychs on Bikes. Since then, he has inspired a wide range of mental health professionals from across the country to join him on epic rides across Australia, where the group visits local communities and offer a presentation to anyone interested, along with health checks to address the four silent killers: hypertension, diabetes, alcohol abuse, and depression. Since 2011, the group have delivered more than 1,000 one-onone health checks across rural and remote Australia.
The Motorcycle Men’s Shed — Perth, WA was founded by Gary Pontifex in March 2023. His vision was to create a one-ofa-kind mobile ‘shed’ that combines his love for motorcycles and his dedication to
raising awareness of mental health in the community. In addition to regular social rides and coffee meet-ups, the group makes time to visit other Men’s Sheds all over the Perth metropolitan area and Regional WA. Since its formation, the group has visited around 80 Men’s Sheds across the State, and hope to one day visit all 180 Men’s and Community Sheds throughout Western Australia. The Shed now has over 100 financial members and nearly 3,000 followers on Facebook.
The Motorcycle Men’s Shed was invited to accompany the Psychs on Bikes on the Western Australian leg of their “Perth to East Coast Signature Ride”. The tour group — comprised of 12 mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, and mental health nurses) and 13 Motorcycle Men’s Shed members — departed Perth on 10 May, and over the following four days visited Men’s Sheds in Augusta, Albany, Esperance, and Kalgoorlie-Boulder, as well as other regional community centres.
In his presentations, Dr Dunn aimed to demystify some of the terminology used when discussing mental health,
and explains the differences between Anxiety, Grief, Trauma, and Depression. He highlighted that, whilst some levels of anxiety are normal and that everyone experiences grief at some time in their life, too much anxiety or prolonged grief is not normal, and can lead to depression. He described how to identify the signs of depression and what to do if you are feeling depressed. Dr Dunn also touched on the subject of alcohol — how to know if you are drinking too much and the negative effects that come from drinking too regularly or to excess. He concluded his talks on the subject of suicide and the team’s aim to reach people who are struggling with their day-to-day life. The team then offered a free health check (BMI, blood sugar, and blood pressure) and the opportunity to have a one-on-one chat with a mental health professional. They hope if any attendee ever wakes feeling like “they just don’t want to do this anymore”, they might remember the talk with Psychs on Bikes, and that talking to someone wasn’t such a difficult thing to do.
The two groups parted ways in Kalgoorlie on day five of the ride, with the Motorcycle Men’s Shedders returning to Perth, while the Psychs on Bikes headed back across the Nullarbor to continue their great work at community centres in South Australia and New South Wales. In total, the Motorcycle Men’s Shed riders covered more than 2,200 km over the five-day journey.
The Motorcycle Men’s Shed is open to all (men and women) who share a passion for riding and are keen to improve and maintain their mental health through social interaction with like-minded people. If you would like to join them for a ride, please email your interest to mcmenshed.sec@ gmail.com.
The group is always looking for new rides — especially ones that end in a cuppa and a chat. So, if your Shed would like the Motorcycle Men’s Shed to pay you a visit, then please reach out on the email above and they will add you to their ever-growing ride itinerary.
Findings for the Thriving Shed Project: How Can Diverse Membership Help a Shed to Thrive?
By Peter McEvoy, Curtin University
TheMen’sShedmovementhasalwaysprided itself on being an inclusive environment for men to socialise, learn, support each other and contribute to the community. The Thriving Sheds Model developed by Curtin University in collaboration with Men’s Sheds of WA included diverse membership as one oftheeightfactorsthathelpShedstothrive.
So, what are the benefits of diverse membership and how can this factor enhance members’ enjoyment of their Shed and their wellbeing?
What did we do?
Our study surveyed 333 Men’s Shed members and leaders across Western Australia to explore the factors that support Sheds to thrive. We were interested in understanding the broad backgrounds and life experiences existing members bring to their Shed, and we also asked members to provide examples of what helps them to feel included in their Shed.
What did we find?
Diversity of Shed Members
Most participants in the survey reported a high degree of diversity in their Shed’s membership, with some also reporting community-based activities in their Shed that were designed for specific groups (e.g., men and youth on community service orders, migrants, fathers/grandfathers and children, refugees, people with a disability, women, youth groups).
In terms of the members, there was a broad age range (22 to 96 years of age), with an average of 71 years. The majority (98%) were male, although some Sheds had women members as “honorary blokes.” Most membersweremarried(78%)andtherewas a broad array of qualifications (university, diploma, certificate, high school) and professions (e.g., managers, professionals, technical and trade, labourers, clerical and
administrative, sales, machinery operators and/or drivers, farmers). Most members were retired (81%).
Around 5% of participants identified as being culturally and linguistically diverse (e.g., refugee or migrant from a nonEnglish speaking country), 16% reported being ex-service personnel, and 9% reported having a disability. Unfortunately, none of our participants identified as being Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander or from the LGBTQI+ community. Interestingly, however, 41% of the surveyed Sheds reported that their Shed had Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander members, and 21% of Sheds reported having members from the LGBTQI+ community. Most Sheds (97%) reported having members with disabilities and 92% of Sheds reported having exservice personnel members in their Shed. A minority (3%) of Sheds reported having gender non-binary members in their Shed.
Italian (24%), Afrikaans (15%), and Spanish (9%) were the most common languages spoken across the Sheds other than English, followed by Greek (8%), Mandarin (5%), Hindi (4%), Indonesian (4%), Cantonese (3%), Vietnamese (3%), and Punjabi (3%).
How does your Shed promote inclusion?
Members reported a range of ways that their Shed supports inclusion. A sample of responses are listed below (paraphrased):
• Understanding members’ disabilities
• No racism
• Being valued
• All members treated as equals
• Mentorship within the Shed
• Acceptance and respect for older age
• Showing support for one another, willingness to help, and an active “welfare” member who checks on members who are unwell or who have lost touch with for a while.
• Being listened to, showing interest in members’ health and feelings
• Our Shed ethos is focused on creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all Shed members and in caring for members’ health and wellbeing. Inclusion and support are integral to the activities of our Shed.
• Spirit of fellowship
• Policies that are inclusive, but there is no pressure to participate.
• Teamwork, cooperation, and companionship
• Shed leaders being open to working with other community groups, age groups and backgrounds
• Expressing appreciation to members and leaders
• Good communication with all members
• Help doing activities
• Acceptance of broad array of activities
• Sharing of collective wisdom and ideas; Members seeking and giving advice
• Recognising members’ skills and providing positive feedback
• Members being prepared to assist with projects when requested
• Respecting other members’ opinions and skillsets
• Active participation in Shed activities, open days, raffles and social events
• Acknowledgment of what members do for the community (e.g., photos of completed projects for schools or local council)
• Being invited to participate in activities
• Group events
• Being part of a team with common interests
• The coffee break and morning teas!
• Banter and sense of fun
• Implementation of a Code of Conduct and Shedders Pledge to explain the types of behaviour we expect from all members.
• Keeping track of birthdays.
Implications for Men’s Sheds
The diversity of the membership will depend on a range of factors. Some Sheds may choose to maintain their current level of diversity. However, given that Sheds are run by volunteers, and activities are driven by members, encouraging a more diverse membership is likely to result in more diverse activities, which, in turn, will lead to growth in membership from people with shared interests.
Many Sheds are already very diverse and a thriving Shed will make full use of the many talents, skills, and abilities of their membership. The focus for these Sheds may be on attracting more active members by increasing awareness in the community about their diversity, and breaking down myths about Men’s Sheds only appealing to a narrow demographic.
Sheds that wish to increase diversity may need to consider how they can broaden their appeal in their local community. Once a Shed has decided how they would like to diversify their membership, they may need to actively seek out members of that particular community to understand how their Shed could foster activities that would be of interest and encourage a sense of belonging for them.
Our work highlights the importance of an inclusive environment for diverse members to feel motivated to fully engage in their Shed. Ensuring there are group-based activities that facilitate social interaction and involvement in activities, celebrate shared achievements, and foster a strong sense of belonging, is critical for a thriving Shed. Leaders and members who actively seek diverse memberships will reap the rewards of having a thriving Shed that can help to promote social cohesion and wellbeing in their members and the community more broadly.
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