Three Men’s Sheds in the New England have been awarded more than $13,000 in grants from the Federal Coalition Government under round 17 of the National Shed Development Programme.

Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, congratulated the Men’s Sheds for their successful grant applications which serve two important roles in the community.

“These grants will not only help men connect on a social level, they will also help reinvest in our local communities which have been severely affected by drought,” Mr Joyce said.  

“Barraba Men's Shed has been awarded $3,550 to buy of a defibrillator, plus tools and equipment like a new bandsaw for the workshop.

“At Manilla Men's Shed, a grant of $4,000 will help fund new air conditioning for the building’s meeting and office area.

“Tamworth Men’s Shed will use its $5,800 in funding to build a staircase to the mezzanine level of the building.

“Like similar sheds across Australia, the Tamworth, Manilla and Barraba sheds offer support to any local men who need a bit of space and some friendly, easy-going company.

“Men are often the last ones to make their health and wellbeing a priority. It’s imperative that we do what we can to ensure they get the support they need and deserve.”

The Coalition Government recognises these benefits and is investing a total of $5.1 million over three years to the national men’s sheds movement.”

Heath Minister Greg Hunt said feeling part of a social group is important to our emotional and mental health.

“Every day Men’s Sheds across Australia and in the New England provide men with an opportunity for companionship and support within their community,” Minister Hunt said.

The Men’s Shed grants programme provides funding for health improvement activities, the purchase of tools and equipment, community projects and training, and for building maintenance and development.

(ENDS)