Port Macquarie Men’s Shed say they are eagerly looking forward to the relocation of their Central Road home to a purpose-build shed on the Oxley Highway.

President Dennis Woods says the announcement in August last year that would see the men’s shed and Port Macquarie Arts and Crafts jointly share currently vacant land on the eastern boundary with Douglas Vale Historic Homestead, has been met with increased membership and plenty of enthusiasm.

“Since returning from the Christmas break, we’ve already had six new members walk in, sign up and pay up as full members,” he said.

“And that’s directly because they’ve read about the plans for a new shed.

“The news has also been met very enthusiastically by our existing members too; we have a sub-committee ready to go consisting of former builders and the general membership is also talking up the move and the new shed.

“But our requirements a fairly simple: four walls, a roof and a door and a few windows.”

Mr Woods said the current building had served members well but they are continually being compromised for space and what they can and cannot do.

“The new premises will allow us to provide separate and contained areas for our metal work guys, for storage of nuts and bolts, storage for timber and a painting area,” he said.

“It will also see us have some much-needed creature comforts too. Importantly too, we will be able to better cater for people with disabilities.

“We are also likely to expand our operating days from three out to five, which will help boost membership and also provide more time on the tools.”

Member for Port Macquarie, Leslie Williams has been working closely with the Hastings Men’s Shed and the Port Macquarie Arts and Craft Centre to find more suitable premises for both enterprises.

“I was pleased to join the minister for education, Rob Stokes last October to announce an agreement to set aside land to the east of the Douglas Vale Historic Homestead for a community education centre to support adult learning,” Mrs Williams said.

“Work is currently underway on drawing up leasing arrangements between all associated parties.

“I know how much these new premises are needed and how important they are for the hundreds of locals who are members of both organisations.  

“That’s why I’m as determined as they are to make sure it becomes a reality,” Mrs Williams said.

Mr Woods said the men’s shed – which has about 66 financial members in Port Macquarie – would target grants to help offset costs involved in the build.

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