Narrabri Men’s shed is now officially open for business.
Member for Barwon and Minister for Mental Health and Healthy Lifestyles, Kevin Humphries, launched the Men’s Shed in its new premises on Saturday morning.
The Narrabri Men’s Shed was launched in 2009 and 18 months ago moved to its new premises, a large complex of buildings formerly used for railways freight and maintenance services.
Mr Humphries, and other official guests Member for Parkes Mark Coulton and Narrabri Shire mayor Cr Conrad Bolton, commended the 70 Men’s Shed members on the work they had undertaken which has transformed the old buildings into a facility which is regarded as a model of a Men’s Shed.
The Narrabri success mirrors the growth of Men’s sheds across Australia.
“There are now 1000 sheds in Australia and about 60 have opened in the past three months,” said president of the NSW Men’s Shed, Bill Clifford, of Gulgong.
Visitors at the opening inspected an immaculately presented complex of rebuilt, restored and painted buildings well equipped with power and hand tools.
Narrabri Men’s Shed president Mr John McLean welcomed the official guests and visitors who mingled for morning tea and lunch.
“Narrabri Men’s Shed appreciates great support and assistance from the community, tradespeople who have volunteered their time and expertise to work on the complex and financial contributions from businesses of all kinds,” said Mr McLean.
“Everyday we pick up the phone and someone is offering us more support.”