Riverstone Men’s Shed build wheelchairs for young victims of war

YOUNGSTERS, who have lost their legs due to landmines and war, will be able to get mobile again thanks to the selfless efforts of the Riverstone Men’s Shed members.

Mick Johnstone with one of the wheelchairs the Riverstone Men's Shed has built. Pictures: Peter Kelly

YOUNGSTERS, who have lost their legs due to landmines and war, will be able to get mobile again thanks to the selfless efforts of the Riverstone Men’s Shed members and their ability to turn bicycle parts into wheelchairs.

The dedicated volunteers, working with professional carpenter and project co-ordinator Mick Johnstone are currently building 10 wheelchairs.

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Once completed, the simple yet compact wheelchairs will be transported to Queensland from where Sunshine Rotary will ship them overseas.

Riverstone Men's Shed have made billy carts and wheelchairs at Riverstone neighbourhood Centre.Bob Hams and Mick Johnston

“We are building the wheelchairs from old bicycle parts, using bikes which are beyond repair,” Mr Johnstone, 50, of West Pennant Hills, said.

“I have done this at other men’s sheds, so when I came here, I contacted the Sunshine Rotary in Queensland and told them we could supply them with wheelchairs if we could get the parts.

“We have already made half-a-dozen and once we make 10, we will be packing them off to the Rotary who will send the wheelchairs overseas for the children.

Riverstone Men's Shed have made billy carts and wheelchairs at Riverstone neighbourhood Centre.Andy Petith, Bob Hams, Andrew Jarvis and Mick Johnston

“We have not put a time limit on the construction as the men’s shed members are all volunteers who come in once or twice a week.

“We feel good that we are able to do this and using our time to benefit those less fortunate. It’s good to be busy.”

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The men’s shed makes other items for the community, including repairing cycles, making pens and billy carts. They have just handed over 10 billy carts for use in the fourth Rouse Hill Billy Cart Derby on Sunday, April 19.

“The men’s shed connects retired men with the local community and the international community,” Mr Johnstone said.

For Bob Hams, who is helping to build the wheelchairs, the men’s shed is a lifesaver.

Riverstone Men's Shed have made billy carts and wheelchairs at Riverstone neighbourhood Centre.Andy Petith, Bob Hams, Andrew Jarvis and Mick Johnston

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“I lost my wife and if not for the men’s shed, I would not be here today,” Mr Hams, 82, said.

The men’s sheds help combat depression and isolation either through regular participation or just having a coffee and a chat.

The men’s shed is located at the Riverstone Neighbourhood Centre. If you can help or want to join, call 9627 3219.