MEN and sheds seem like a match made in heaven so it should have come as no surprise to organisers of the community based Men’s Shed group at Murray Bridge when they attracted a full house to their first annual general meeting.
Fred McInerney, who was elected president on the day, said the turnout exceeded all expectations.
“All we needed to begin was a quorum of 10 people but about 65 people turned up,” he said.
With a membership of 65 signing on before the meeting which grew to 77 by the time lunch was called, the future seems secure for the group who have successfully lobbied for funding to build a 34 by 12 metre shed with a workshop, kitchen, meeting, computer and class rooms at the Murray Bridge showgrounds.
Mr McInerney said the first task of the newly elected inaugural committee and members was to hold an auction to help raise funds for operating costs and set them on the path to independence.
“The major thing is an auction on November 4 at 10am to raise funds to fit out the shed, which is still in the construction process,” he said.
Donations from businesses and residents so far were overwhelming, Mr McInerney said.
Mr McInerney said building of the facility was helped by council grants but with running expenses expected to cost about $1000 per month the group would need to become self sufficient for long term success.
The Men’s Shed aims to help retirees by providing a community atmosphere where they can work, socialise and learn together.
