BOLD - Issue 6: July/August BOLD - Issue 6: July/August | Page 9

MEN OF THE MEN’S SHED Eric What does the Men’s Shed provide? We offer mateship, camaraderie and a sense of belonging. We know that men are not the best at talking about feelings, but here we talk about everything openly. More than anything, I think many of the guys come here for the laughs. Our biggest achievement so far is getting this building we’re in right now. It’s a great shed, with a big kitchen, comfy chairs, but the best thing for me is seeing these wonderful blokes each week. We’re always keen for donations and support and we’re on the hunt for a defibrillator and a storage facility for our wood. We’re also looking for someone who would be interested in digging a few post holes for a fence and a tiler to help with some tiling in the kitchen. If you’re interested in joining a club in the Toowoomba Region, check out My Community Directory www.mycommunitydirectory.com.au You can search for anything in the region including community clubs, hobbies, health and environment. If you’re interested in joining the Highfields Men’s Shed, give Richard a call on 0412 687 338 or email [email protected] The Highfields Men’s Shed is located at 32 Shostaki Road, Cabarlah and is open Monday and Thursday from 8am–12.30pm. BOLD. www.tr.qld.gov.au/bold I enjoy the company the most. I lost my son last August, so it’s good having some blokes to talk to. Before I started here, I used to drive trucks. But I’ve just discovered a passion for wood work. It’s all new to me but one of the guys here showed me how to do it all. We all pitch in. ROSS I joined because I’m interested in community service and helping people in the community. We’re a good mob. I’ve been here for five years. We all look after each other. Top blokes, all of ‘em. COL Satisfaction is what I get out of it. I worked all of my life in the ambulance service and when I retired I needed to do something and these blokes kindly introduced me to the Men’s Shed. I’m only new, but learning how to use all the machines is really interesting to me. PETER We’re a very progressive shed and a lively bunch. For me, coming here stops social isolation. I have withdrawal symptoms if I don’t come. TERRY We’re from all walks of life and we have about 20 war veterans in the club. We encourage people with disabilities or men who are recovering from an addiction or some other kind of hardship to join. 9