Beenleigh District Men’s Shed and Pimpama Men’s Shed have both been awarded Turnbull Government Grants as part of the National Shed Development Programme.
Federal Member for Forde Bert van Manen MP said he was pleased to share the great news with the two Men’s Sheds, who do tremendous work in the local community.
“Pimpama Men’s Shed received a $5000 grant which will help them plan and deliver an exhibit as part of the Regional Men’s Health Expo to be held in June,” Mr van Manen said.
“With more than 50 members, the Pimpama Men’s Shed is helping to create a supportive and networking community and they plan to expand on that at the upcoming expo.”
Mr van Manen said Beenleigh District Men’s Shed received a $3509 grant to purchase a defibrillator and offer first aid and CPR training for its 68 members.
“Men’s sheds are integral to the community and the benefits to men’s health have been widely acknowledged, which is why I am so pleased to offer two of our local organisations support from the Turnbull Government,” Mr van Manen said.
“Men are talking about their health more and more and the men’s shed provides a safe and friendly environment for them to do so.
“They also provide fantastic support to the local community by undertaking much needed projects and contributing their equipment and expertise.”
In 2016, the rate of suicide among Australian males was more than three times that of females.
Heath Minister Greg Hunt said although mental illness affected both men and women, men were less likely to seek help or talk about their feelings.
“Feeling part of a social group is important to our emotional and mental health and every day Men’s Sheds around the country provide men with an opportunity for companionship,” Minister Hunt said.
The grants programme provides funding for health improvement activities, the purchase of tools and equipment, community projects and training, and for building maintenance and development.
