Proposal for Wondai Men’s Shed lease hits a snag in council vote

A council vote on leasing land to the Wondai and District Men’s Shed stalled this week despite a council staff recommendation.

A recent council meeting was expected to see a vote on the Wondai and District Men’s Shed Inc.‘s request for a 10-year lease of land from the South Burnett Regional Council.

A recent South Burnett Regional Council meeting was expected to see a vote on the Wondai and District Men’s Shed request for a 10-year lease of council-owned land, but the decision was delayed as some councillors sought more time for investigation.

The Men’s Shed wants to establish a dedicated facility on an empty lot (lot 36) at 54-56 Burrows St, Wondai.

During Wednesday’s ordinary council meeting, a council officer said that while the land had previously been deemed difficult to sell due to its low-lying nature, it presented an opportunity to benefit the community.

“I think there’s some community value in putting this particular site to use,” he said, highlighting the site’s access to power as advantageous for the Men’s Shed.

The Wondai Men's Shed association hopes to establish a dedicated facility on an empty lot (Lot 36) located at 54-56 Burrows Street, Wondai.

Councillor Ros Heit said the Wondai Men’s Shed group was “very excited to get started,” but said other councillors had expressed concerns about giving away the asset instead of selling it.

Although the council officer recommended proceeding with a 10-year lease, councillor Heath Sander moved the matter lay on the table until a site visit could be arranged.

The motion, seconded by councillor Jane Erkens, passed narrowly with a vote of four to three.

Councillors Sander, Erkens, Heit, and Linda Little supported the delay.

Mayor Kathy Duff, and councillors Deb Dennien and Danita Potter opposed the motion.

The timeline for the next vote on the lease remains uncertain. The council’s next ordinary meeting is on October 16.

The Wondai and District Men’s Shed, incorporated in July 2024, aims to provide a supportive environment for men to engage in meaningful projects and improve their wellbeing.

Men’s Sheds are known as community spaces that promote mental health and foster connections among men of all ages. Photo: Kingaroy Men's Shed.

Why this Men’s Shed is the first in Qld to let women in

The Australian Men’s Shed Association recognises such groups as vital community spaces that promote mental health and foster connections among men of all ages.

The proposed shed will not only serve as a meeting place but will also allow members to share skills and collaborate on community projects.

The group also plans to apply for grant funding to support the construction and development of the facility.

The Wondai and District Men’s Shed is one of four similar organisations in the region, joining Kingaroy, Murgon, and Nanango in promoting male engagement and support.

The council’s decision on the lease will play a crucial role in establishing the new community hub in Wondai.