WHO said men can’t talk about their emotions?
Whether it’s chitchat about their last holiday or the death of a partner, the men who meet at Brimbank Men’s Shed in Sunshine always have something to talk about over a cuppa.
Last Wednesday morning was another regular meeting for the five men who gathered at the UnitingCare Sunshine Mission at Whiters St, Sunshine, when Star came on visit.
With music playing in the background, the men whose meetings take place at the Mission’s shed in the courtyard were chatting quietly while others were enthusiastically playing computer games.
Shed co-ordinator Lyn Kinder said it was a slow day as there could often be up to 30 members at the Shed.
It was a place where men could seek advice about their health and wellbeing, including sharing their experiences and where they grew in confidence by participating in community services, Ms Kinder said.
The group also welcomed men from diverse backgrounds as some of them were unemployed and had mental health issues, Ms Kinder added.
But it was a place to relax as a variety of activities, including social outings and food preparation, were on offer.
Footscray resident Gerry Tye has regularly attended meetings for the past three years.
He came to seek support after his fiancee died.
“We like to have a laugh and a joke,” Mr Tye said.
He said that the meetings were more important to him than just sharing a laugh. Since he had started attending his gambling problem had been reduced significantly.
“We come here instead of going to the pub,” Mr Tye said. “I’ve put my life back on track and learned new skills by using a computer.”
Agencies such as Western Melbourne Division of General Practice, Centrelink and Isis Primary Care are involved with the group, Ms Kinder said.
For more information about Brimbank Men’s Shed, contact Men’s Shed co-ordinator Lyn Kinder on 9311 5900.
