Wanted: One large community shed

August 22nd, 2011
[by Glenn Thomas]

The first meeting to gauge interest in the development of a Motueka Community Men's Shed was held last week. It was agreed that such a facility would be a valuable addition to Motueka and serve a useful purpose. Organisers were pleased with the wide support and encouragement offered from across the community leading up to the initial meeting.

The work will now be to pull together a small steering group to identify possible funding sources and find an appropriate site. Options for The Shed itself were discussed and it was hoped that somewhere in the community a shed might be identified for use or relocation. Alternatively it was suggested that 1-2 shipping containers could provide a secure dry start and a roof between the two could be added later.

While there remains much to be achieved, the general aims of The Shed would be to

provide a meeting space for people to share and learn skills,
undertake personal and community projects,
donate and share tools and equipment,
mentor and learn from younger people (the internet being a source of much 'man wisdom' these days),
enjoy a yarn and
make some new (and rekindle old) friendships.

There has even been talk of aiming to make this New Zealand's first fully 'off-grid' Men's Shed!

It is hoped that over the next couple of months more interested people will come forward who can help in developing the project. This may be by getting involved in the steering group, offering general support and ideas about what they'd want in a community shed, or by donating any tools, equipment or expertise (or even better- a couple of shipping containers or a large shed!).

The Motueka Recreation Centre has agreed to umbrella the group as it develops initially. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday 7th September from 5pm at the Motueka Recreation Centre. All and anyone interested most welcome.

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