By Bob Pymm of Helensburgh Men’s Shed

With the Men’s Shed settling down in its new location at the end of Darkes Forest Road, we are beginning to get back into other activities.

Built into our constitution is a commitment to enhance the health and wellbeing of not only our members, but also to support our friends, family and the community. The importance of this role is recognised by government, with the Federal Department of Health and Aged Care providing funding to the Australian Men’s Shed Association. The aim is to improve  health and wellbeing.

Our shed here in Helensburgh takes this role seriously. It has a Health and Wellbeing officer (thank you, Ron!) who organises activities for members. Recently a group of eight Shedders completed the online component and practical training required to be certified First Aiders. We now know the recommended treatment for tick bites, how to perform CPR and bandage a sprain, and we have practised using an epipen and a defibrillator. This is a useful thing for Shedders, our families and our community. Hopefully we won’t need to use our first aid training, but if we do, we are prepared.

Over the past year, the Shed has also welcomed visiting nurses conducting health checks and guest speakers providing advice on issues relevant to Shed members (eg. prostate cancer, heart health and so on). Last year we also had a session from Wollongong City Memorial Gardens on the services they offer and the support and advice they can provide in managing bereavement.

So, while the Shed at first glance seems to be about making things and mixing with a bunch of like-minded people (which it is), there is a more serious side, helping us navigate the complexities of getting older, health and relationship issues.

Come on down to our new location at the end of Darkes Forest Road to find out more.

Visit the Australian Men’s Shed Association website or helensburghmensshed.org.au