The Tatiara Men’s Shed in Bordertown will receive $2750 funding from the Federal Government to continue to support the health and wellbeing of men in our community.
The grant will go towards resources such as computer training, catering, mentors, materials and activities to promote connectivity.
Tatiara Men’s Shed secretary Trevor Butler was delighted with the funding allocation.
“With this grant funding we aim to conduct a ‘Be Connected’ Computer Training Course,” he said.
“The idea behind this being that while most households have computers, tablets and mobile phones, the complexity of these devices is beyond the understanding of a high proportion of those of us in the over 60’s demographic, which encompasses 95% of our membership.
“A successful outcome from this training would see participants feel more confident and connected using the technologies available.”
Minister for Health Mark Butler said the Tatiara Men’s Shed provides an important space for men and boys to find mateship and social support to help them stay mentally and physically healthy.
“The Albanese Government has provided grant funding so the shed can continue the important work of highlighting men’s health issues,” he said.
“No two sheds are the same, which makes them great places for local men to gather, talk, share skills, learn new ones and ease the burden of isolation and loneliness.”
Senator for South Australia Don Farrell was delighted the Tatiara Men’s Shed had been awarded funding.
“This grant will support the delivery of a new computer training course to equip participants with valuable technical skills and promote connectivity amongst men in the Bordertown community,” he said.
“Having an environment where men can contribute to the community and find mateship is incredibly important, and I congratulate Trevor and the Tatiara Men’s Shed for their terrific work.”
There are more than 1200 Men’s Sheds across Australia, offering thousands of men of all ages a safe place to meet, socialise, connect and engage in meaningful community work.
These sheds are offering a vital outlet, with almost half of Australian men experiencing loneliness, which is linked to poorer physical and mental health, and cognitive decline and risk of dementia in older adults.
The funding announcement follows the Federal Government’s additional $6m in the 2024/25 budget investment for the Men’s Shed movement.
Applications for Round 29 of the National Shed Development Program are now open through the Australian Men’s Shed Association, closing February 21.
Further grants are also available to replace or install defibrillators.
Click here for more information about the grants program.
