Llew O’Brien in town to announce grant for Gympie Men’s Shed

Wide Bay MP Llew O’Brien will make the announcement in Gympie today. Previous rounds have also provided funding to Gympie, Maryborough, Noosa, Kilkivan, Numabulla, Poona, Tin Can Bay, Bauple, Pomona, and Murgon Men’s and Community Sheds.

Member for Wide Bay Llew O'Brien.

The Gympie Men’s Shed will receive almost $2000 for a new computer.

Wide Bay MP Llew O’Brien said on Monday the $1900 grant would be used for a computer which will help them remain connected, carry out training, and keep accurate records.

“Staying connected with people around us is really essential for mental and emotional wellbeing, and as we start to socialise again following the pandemic, our local Men’s Sheds are fantastic places for men to meet up, have a chat and participate in projects,” Mr O’Brien said.

“The Gympie Men’s Shed plays a valuable role not just in providing that place to socialise and learn new skills, but also in assisting the broader community with projects, education and hands-on assistance, so I am pleased the Liberal and Nationals Government can give back with this funding through the National Shed Development Program.”

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Minister for Health and Aged Care, Greg Hunt, said it was vitally important that Shed Members felt valued and remained connected to their community during a period that was difficult for many Australians.

“Our Government is committed to ensuring that even doing the pandemic, members can stay in touch and continue to providing meaningful contributions to their communities,” Minister Hunt said.

Regional Health Minister, Mark Coulton said there are more than 1000 Men’s Sheds across the nation.

“Men’s Sheds play a vital role in preventing social isolation and mental ill health. They offer thousands of men of all ages a safe and friendly environment where they can work on meaningful projects while building strong social connections,” Minister Coulton said.

Including today’s announcement, the Government has provided $6.4 million in grant funding to support Men’s Sheds since 2013.

Previous rounds have also provided funding to Gympie, Maryborough, Noosa, Kilkivan, Numabulla, Poona, Tin Can Bay, Bauple, Pomona, and Murgon Men’s and Community Sheds.