Community grant to build new Men’s Shed in Coolum

Most men love a good shed, and the men of Coolum will soon have one of the best to share with the help of a $25,000 Sunshine Coast Council Community Grant.

Thanks to the grant and the dedication of volunteers, construction of a new light industrial shed and community meeting space is soon to commence.

Division 9 Councillor Steve Robinson said the new shed had been made possible following plenty of hard work by the Coolum Men’s Shed volunteers.

“The Coolum Men’s Shed has been operating from a temporary location for the past three years,” Cr Robinson said.

“During this time, their dedicated volunteers have worked hard to source funding and a more permanent location, and their efforts have been rewarded.

“I’m thrilled that council was able to contribute to this valuable community project through our grants programs, by providing funding towards the shed, floor slab and also some tools and machinery.”

Coolum Men’s Shed vice-president Chris Crossland said the new shed would be a great place for the men of Coolum to do some woodwork and metalwork, or just catch up for a yarn and a cuppa.

“The men’s shed provides a space for members to socialise while doing woodwork and metalwork, or trying their hand at restoring old objects, machines and furniture,” Mr Crossland said.

“We’re excited that our new shed will finally be a reality and are extremely thankful to council for their support.

“The shed will have a terrific work space as well as an area with disabled access, toilet facilities, an administration area and a lunchroom.”

Community Programs Portfolio Councillor Jenny McKay said the Coolum Men’s Shed was a good example of community and social outcomes that the grants program was designed to deliver.

“Council’s grants programs were designed to support community groups in their efforts to benefit local residents” Cr McKay said.

“This project is a wonderful example of a community organisation that provides its members with an opportunity for social interaction and encourages an active lifestyle.”

Applications for the next round of major grants in Sunshine Coast Council’s Community Grants Program will open on February 1, 2016 and grants information sessions will be held throughout February.

Visit www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/grants for eligibility criteria and application forms. For further information or to discuss your project, contact a grants officer on 5420 8616.