Don’t be fooled by the name Armidale Men’s Shed, it is so much more than just a place for men to tinker around with woodworking projects.
Yes, it is a fully operational woodworking workshop with some of the most amazing machinery, however it is also a place for men and women to gather for companionship, conversation and education, not only about wood working but about health and wellbeing.
“The shed itself has a number of classes and sessions for various groups and interests,” said Armidale Men’s Shed member Lorrie Johnstone.
“For the men there are the day-to-day instruction on the numerous machines and tools that the shed holds but there are also courses on healthy cooking, healthy exercise and other interests.
“The ladies have classes and sessions in lead lighting, painting, repair of small items and decorative objects.”
Every Thursday at 12.30pm members gather for lunch. This can also include lectures on men’s health, cooking for one and other subjects of interest.
The shed is open to suggestions for new projects or classes and coming up soon at the shed will be jewelry and lapidary classes.
Membership of the Armidale Men’s Shed is $50 per year. The shed does have to earn its keep and offers toy and small project making, repair of any items of timber from doors to furniture. These repairs are done by shed volunteers and provide another social event for members to learn new skills or polish up on old ones.
“If you are at home bored, looking for a very low pressure way to expand your social circle and meet other people the shed could be the answer,” said Lorrie Johnstone.
“Come along on Thursday at 12.30pm for lunch and check it out. I did.”
In the coming weeks the Armidale Independent will be running a monthly column on news and events at the Armidale Men’s Shed.
