tasmanian men’s shed association inc shed news · tmsa now has a new commtitee for 2019–20. i...

www.tasmanianmenshed.org.au at Tasmanian Men’s Shed Association

GPO Box 344 Hobart TAS 7001

ABN: 722 937 65 160 [email protected]

www.tasmanianmensshed.org.au

SHED NEWS Edition 1 -‐ July 2015

DRAFT at 15.7 Gooday

Welcome to the first edition of Shed News.

Since commencing with the TMSA in January, I have had the privilege of visiting more than 50% of the 46 sheds around Tasmania and meet some great people.

One really interesting aspect of the sheds is the wide range of activities that are undertaken. This varies from lots of working with tools to watching old movies, all with the aim of providing support to the shed members.

There is an enormous skill and knowledge base within the membership and it has become obvious to me that WE (being everyone involved with sheds) do not share all our experiences, mostly because we do not know what other sheds are doing.

So, one of the main aims of this newsletter is to share the experiences of sheds and members with other shedders across Tassie.

My vision is for a regular publication that members will look forward to receiving to provide them with information of what is happening with other sheds, new inventions or ways of undertaking activities, functions with other sheds and much more. It may evolve to include advertising from regular suppliers and others. Sheds may wish to advertise for equipment they need or disposal of gear they no longer want.

Eventually, I would like to see an editorial team from sheds preparing your newsletter for you.

But, we need to start somewhere and this is my attempt to get it started.

Cheers

Geoff

Geoff Marsh

Executive Officer

TMSA

EDITION 17 SPRING 2019

THIS YEAR CELEBRATING OUR 10TH BIRTHDAY

TASMANIAN MEN’S SHED ASSOCIATION INC

Winner of

our inaugural

Aurora Art Prize

. . . see page 6

SPRING 2019 Shed News 32 Shed News SPRING 2019

Fr om the President also continue our work with government and the various departments that we work closely with, to ensure that we provide the best possible outcomes for our members – both locally and nationally with Men’s Sheds Australia.

The Area Gatherings have been a wonderful initiative, full of feedback from the Sheds and to the Sheds. Those that have attended have enjoyed a great day of friendship and an opportunity to learn about other Sheds and how they operate, many offering assistance and some asking for help. Many ideas are discussed around the table while enjoying lunch which is usually followed by a tour of the host Shed.

More are planned, with both the Southern and Northern Gatherings happening on 19 November which is International Men’s Day. We encourage all Sheds to send a representative to upcoming gatherings and we look forward to seeing you there.

Keith EllisPresidentTMSA

Hello All,

With TMSA having just had its 10th Birthday Anniversary and AGM, our thanks must go to the organising team, for putting on such a wonderful event, which was enjoyed by all who attended. A big thankyou also to our event sponsor Aurora Energy for their continued support. Congratulations to the winner of our inaugural Aurora Art Prize Winner – Spring Bay Community Boat Shed and the People’s Choice Winner Mount Black. The number of entries for the Art Prize was quite overwhelming and a credit to all Sheds that entered. The standard of entries was extremely high.

TMSA now has a new Committee for 2019–20. I warmly welcome our new members and thank our returning members for once again volunteering their time. There is much to do in the coming year including the roll out of our health initiatives and a comprehensive look at the Organisational Review performed last year by Volunteering Tasmania. Any decisions on structural changes to the TMSA Committee will of course, be advised to our Member Sheds, as this would require changes to our Constitution. We will

Front Cover:The Spring Bay Community Boat Shed was the overall winner of our Inaugural Art Prize

TMSA Television CommercialAs part of our health initiatives project, we are producing a series of television commercials/community service announcements that will air on Southern Cross network at the end of this year.

The aim of the commercials is to inform the wider community how Men’s Sheds offer so much to their c o m m u n i t i e s . Thank you to those that have participated so far in sharing their stories about the ‘bigger picture’ of what Men’s Sheds can provide.

Apart from learning new skills and enhancing existing skills, we are educating many as to how we offer purpose, friendship and an escape from the loneliness that can affect so many.


volunteers who contribute their time and eff ort to ensure their Sheds meet the needs of both their members and local community.

Volunteers support their fellow Shed members on projects and activities, provide advice and support on tool and equipment usage. They are integral to ensuring that each Shed runs smoothly and remains sustainable for the long-term enjoyment of members and the community.

Acknowledging the hard work that goes into supporting our Men’s Sheds, I was pleased to announce the 25 successful recipients of the 2019–20 TMSA Grants program.

I would like to again congratulate all the successful recipients, who will share in $125,000 to support Shed development and deliver projects that will benefi t the wider community.

I look forward to catching up with some of you when visiting the Men’s Shed in your local area.

Please enjoy this edition of Shed News.

Cheers,

Roger

Roger Jaensch MP

Men’s Sheds play a vital role in Tasmanian communities. If you look inside a Shed in Tasmania, you will see men working together restoring furniture, building cubby houses and fi xing lawn mowers.

There are older men learning new skills, and young men learning from the older generations. But most importantly, you’ll fi nd a place where men can be together doing what they enjoy, with the opportunity to talk and learn about things that aff ect their lives, or not talk at all and just be good company for each other. Since taking on the Community Development portfolio in July, I have had the privilege of attending milestone anniversaries for two highly respected and much loved community organisations that share a very special common thread.In August, the Tasmanian Men’s Shed Association (TMSA) held its 10th Birthday Celebration at Woolmers Estate in Longford, and in September, Volunteering Tasmania’s 25th Jubilee Anniversary was recognised with a Reception at Government House in Hobart.Men’s Sheds have dedicated and enthusiastic

Minister’s Message

Mark, Aurora Energy - Customer Service Team

“ Choose the amount you pay, and when you pay it”

Mark works in our Hobart Customer Service Centre, so he knows quite a bit about how Tasmanians use their power. He also knows a lot about how Tasmanians pay for their power and the best way to stay on top of power costs.

His top tip when it comes to staying on top: pay a little, more often. By choosing to set up payments either weekly, fortnightly or monthly with direct debit, you can be like Mark and forget about your bill.

The power of control. The power of Mark. The power of Tasmanian.

More tips from Mark at auroraenergy.com.au

Mark, Aurora Energy - Customer Service TeamTasmanians pay for their power and the best way to stay on top of power costs.

His top tip when it comes to staying on top: pay a little, more often. By choosing to set up payments either weekly, fortnightly or monthly with direct debit, you can be likeMark and forget about your bill.with direct debit, you can be likeMark and forget about your bill.

The power of control. The power of Mark.The power of Tasmanian.


Northern and Southern GatheringsTwo more gatherings were held in recent months, the fi rst one hosted by Exeter Shed was held at Tresca House. With 30 delegates attending, it was a great opportunity for many Sheds to get together to exchange ideas and get to know each other. The morning session was followed by an excellent barbeque.

Thanks to Dave Gray and Exeter for hosting a very worthwhile get together.

Derwent Valley hosted the Southern Gathering which attracted representation from 12 Sheds. Once again, attendees enjoyed catching up with old and new members, while sharing ideas and issues. The local pizzas were very well received especially the dessert pizza! Thanks to Ross and Nev for hosting the day.

Both gatherings concluded with Shed tours.

TMSA encourages all member Sheds to attend future gatherings, they are a great way to get an overview how diverse our Sheds are.

Wendy Kennedy

Southern Gathering at Derwent Valley

Northern Gathering at Tresca

Mark, Aurora Energy - Customer Service Team

“ Choose the amount you pay, and when you pay it”

Mark works in our Hobart Customer Service Centre, so he knows quite a bit about how Tasmanians use their power. He also knows a lot about how Tasmanians pay for their power and the best way to stay on top of power costs.

His top tip when it comes to staying on top: pay a little, more often. By choosing to set up payments either weekly, fortnightly or monthly with direct debit, you can be like Mark and forget about your bill.

The power of control. The power of Mark. The power of Tasmanian.


Va le John WatersIt is with sadness that we farewell one of the founding members of TMSA John Waters. John played a vital role in the development of Men’s Sheds from his local Shed, Pete’s Shed in Bridgewater to the formation of TMSA and the national peak body. He played a very important role in the Shed movement identifying the important social connections and benefi ts Men’s Sheds provide in communities. In 2006 John convened a state conference at Brighton which helped to galvanise the Shed community in Tasmania. Even before becoming the fi rst President of TMSA, John travelled the state extensively talking with a variety of organisations and sectors. He brought key people together to initiate the establishment of the Tasmanian Peak Body for Men’s Sheds and continued to play a signifi cant advocacy role across the state.

John also represented the TMSA as a director on the National Board for several years and was admitted to the AMSA Hall of Fame in 2013 in recognition of his service to Men’s Sheds in Tasmania and nationally. John’s passion and commitment to the Men’s Shed movement has been unwavering.

Our thoughts and sympathy go to John’s family and friends as we farewell and pay tribute to John and his huge contribution to the Sheds of Tasmania.

Jonathan BedloeFounding Board Member TMSA


Shed NewsOn 29 August, 110 shedders and stakeholders gathered at Woolmers in Longford for our AGM and 10th birthday celebrations. The AGM sub-committee spent the day before the event preparing for the big day and it was a huge success. Our new committee (pictured below) was elected and our Minister Roger Jaensch was on hand for the official cutting of the cake.

Northern Midlands Mayor Mary Knowles conducted the official welcome, while former President Peter Shelley gave an overview of the history of TMSA. A delicious lunch was enjoyed by all and this was followed by an inspiring key note speech by former ironman champion Guy Leech.

The Art Prize (thanks once again to our event and prize sponsor Aurora) was won by The Spring Bay Community Boat Shed (front cover), with the People’s Choice (right) taken out by Mt Black Men’s Shed.

The day was a great success and attracted lots of media attention. A huge thank you to committee member Bob Thomas who led the AGM sub-committee.

Mt Black Shed – Winner of the People’s ChoicePresented to Kevin Dogrusever by competition sponsor

Chris Warr, Aurora

AGM and 10th Birthday Celebrations

Back Row (left to right): Fred Wales, David Gray, Bruce Weller Secretary, Keith Ellis President, Chris Jeffrey, David Seen Vice President, Lyndley Chopping, John Bastick TreasurerFront Row: Andy Hocken, Bob Thomas, Bill Harmen


Minister Roger Jaensch, cutting the cake, watchedon by committee member

Bob Thomas

Committee members Chris and Bob setting up for the AGM

Those that attended our AGM and 10th birthday celebrations will agree that this was a truly wonderful occasion for TMSA. Not only did it bring together the biggest representation of Member Sheds ever, it was a day of celebration.

Former President Peter Shelley shared a wonderful account of the history of our organisation.

We thank our event sponsor Aurora Energy for not only supporting our lunch but also in partnering with us in launching the inaugural Aurora Art Prize. This was a fantastic initiative that we hope will continue for many years.

A fantastic lunch was followed by our guest speaker former champion iron man Guy Leech who gave a very moving account of the importance of men’s health issues. Our Minister for Men’s Sheds Roger Jaensch also moved many with his address and proudly cut the birthday cake!

A big thank you to the organising committee led by TMSA committee member Bob Thomas.


Lunch at the AGM


Art Competition


The TMSA was formed in July 2009 with John Waters as President. John was the founder of Tasmania’s first Shed at Bridgewater “Pete’s Shed” which started operation in 2000. The Committee included representatives from across the state with Ken Sulman from Sorell as Secretary, the

Late Paul Fannon from Nubeena as Public Officer and Kevin Clayton from Kingston as the Southern Sheds co-ordinator. Ross Kent from New Norfolk and Jonathon Bedloe from the DHHS Men’s Health, Mervyn Chilcott from Scottsdale, Charlie Trafford from Somerset and Len Blair from Central Coast were also stalwarts on this original committee.In March 2010, the then Labour Government member for Lyons, Michael Polley, announced a “one off” grant of $5,000 per Shed for the 26 Men’s Sheds in Tasmania, at that time a total of $130,000.In 2011, I was actively trying to establish a Shed at Margate and discovered the TMSA. I had read about this grant and thought that we should see if we could get “our share” of it! On delving deeper into the TMSA’s structure I discovered that this was a once only grant and that the government had no wish to keep supplying funds for Men’s Sheds across Tasmania.To me, this became a challenge to try to make change. TMSA needed to be a more active body, develop advocacy and to be recognized as a group that had vision for the future.TMSA needed to develop a strategic plan for the future and therefore be in a position to guide and steer the growing Men’s Shed movement across the state. To have local, state and federal politicians understand our direction and generate their support for our growing needs.I joined the TMSA committee in 2012 and along with other committed representatives from across Tasmania set out to establish a strategic plan, re-look at our objectives and again try to influence the then government to fund TMSA and Sheds in Tasmania. We first wrote to the then Premier, Lara Giddings in November 2012 seeking this support but to no avail.The TMSA committee continued its hard work and met monthly to ensure that our vision, strategic direction and method of operation would cater for the long-term requirements of a growing Shed movement throughout the state.We lobbied all possible sources but believed that the State Government was the most likely to eventually understand our needs and subsequently offer some financial support.In 2013 we again presented the then government and Liberal opposition with a definitive three-year funding

proposal that not only provided funding for both equipment and capital for Sheds but also for a part time Executive Officer of TMSA. Our plan was to have this Executive Officer visit every member and non-member Shed in Tasmania and offer whatever assistance could be provided in enhancing that Shed’s operation.The Liberal opposition confirmed support for this proposal should they be elected at the 2014 State Election. No offer of support was received from the government.The Liberals were elected to government in March 2014 and our dream became reality. $555,000 over three years from January 2015 for TMSA and Sheds throughout Tasmania.The activities of TMSA then heated up considerably, Shed numbers now totaled 42 across the state and as a committee we had a lot to do as a result of the government’s promise of funding. Things we had to do included:• Finalise the Strategic Plan for 2013–16• Finalise a Business Plan and cash flow for 2013–16• Develop an Agreement with government for funding

and reporting KPI’s• Develop guidelines for Shed grants• Develop a Position Description for Executive Officer• Advertise the Executive Officer’s position• Appoint selection panel for Executive Officer• Appoint confirmed candidate for Executive Officer• Consider TMSA Constitution changes needed to

enable compliance with government fundingTMSA determined that we should have a recognized Patron to support our endeavors. Dr Robert Clifford the Chair of InCat Tasmania willingly agreed to take this role. Dr Clifford has been very generous with his time and interest in Tasmanian Men’s Sheds and has hosted many visits to his shipyard for TMSA Member Sheds. He also attended and was the guest speaker at our 2018 AGM.During this period, we were also desperately undertaking communications with AMSA in an endeavor to resolve the dispute between TMSA and AMSA. Sadly, this resolution never happened and like many other states the original State Associations of Men’s Sheds are no longer members of the AMSA that was formed by them.With the appointment of Geoff Marsh as the first Executive Officer of TMSA being made, further and meaningful developments continued within the state Shed movement. Relationships between neighbouring Sheds were enhanced, local, state and federal politicians took a much greater interest in their local Sheds and provided increased levels of support to them.Other funding providers also recognized the real benefits that Sheds played in their local communities and as such became much more flexible in their support to Tasmanian Sheds. Many Sheds are indebted to the Tasmanian Community Fund who have now contributed in excess of $1 million to Tasmanian Sheds.

The History of the Tasmanian Men’s Shed Association

as presented at the 2019 AGM by former President Peter Shelly


All of this foundation work was undertaken by volunteer committee members who utilized their skills and connections to achieve the basis for a strong and highly recognized TMSA.Throughout the ten years that TMSA has existed, its committees have continually adopted a very strong approach to governance and fi nancial controls. The accounts for TMSA have been audited each year. This approach assisted greatly in our negotiations with government in relation to ongoing funding support.This work, now supported by an energetic and committed EO was also recognized by commercial interests who were prepared to assist TMSA with sponsorship funding. We must take this opportunity to thank Aurora Energy for their ongoing fi nancial support.Continual updating of the Strategic and Business plans during 2017 enabled TMSA to convince a re-elected Liberal Government to again commit to funding of the TMSA and Sheds throughout Tasmania. This funding was announced in February 2018 for $705,000, indexed at 2.5% annually and was a pledge by the then Parliamentary Secretary, Sarah Courtney to TMSA and Sheds over three years 2018, 2019 and 2020. In addition to this funding in early 2019 (this year) a further $55,000 was granted for Health Initiative Programs to June 2020. A commitment now standing at $760,000 plus indexation. Not only did the government commit to this funding but it now recognizes TMSA as a peak body in this state.

In summary, TMSA has generated government commitments of $1.315 million for Sheds in a short six-year time frame.This is exceptional when compared to other states who in some cases receive very little or no funding from their State Government.

For all such vision to be turned into positive outcomes, hard work and personal eff orts are required, such eff orts are only available from volunteers who are prepared to make sacrifi ces in time and energy to “make it happen”.I take my hat off to those that have made these commitments to the Tasmanian Shed movement since its inception ten years ago. You have all contributed signifi cantly to the brilliant result of having some 61 Sheds across Tasmania as members of TMSA, all for the benefi t

of so many local communities. There is now one Shed in Tasmania for every 9,000 people, the best ratio of population to Sheds in this country. For this momentum to be maintained, it will be essential for other committed Shedders to stand up and take responsibility for continuing to ensure that the TMSA Committee remains fully active, hardworking and generating the outcomes that impact positively for all Shed members across the state.Don’t sit back and leave it to others. Do something positive and make your contribution to this great movement work.

There is now one Shed

in Tasmania for every

9,000 people, the best

ratio of population to

Sheds in this country.

1/2 page ad to come

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Shed NewsThe workshop commenced over 20 years ago in the same Department of Defence building that we are presently housed at Derwent Barracks, Loyd Road, Dowsings Point. It was fully supported and funded by the then Vietnam Veterans Counselling Service (VVCS) growing from an idea that a leading Hobart psychiatrist came up with to assist veterans to acquire a range of woodworking skills, to enjoy the camaraderie of fellow veterans and more importantly to improve their general physical and mental health and wellbeing. It is believed the Dowsings Point workshop was the first ‘Men’s Shed’ of its type in Australia.

In August 2016, VVCS ceased their financial support of the workshop so it was incorporated, a committee was established and since that date has operated on an independent basis. Being off the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) ‘drip’ has provided many challenges and opportunities but most of all it has given our members ownership of their destiny and a complete revitalisation of the working culture and the way the workshop operates on a day to day basis.

Incorporation has allowed us to apply for several small grants which have assisted in renewing the dust extraction system and to replace old and

Defence Force Veterans Time Out Workshopunsafe machinery and equipment. This is an ongoing project. The workshop is now leased from DoD at a cost of $2500 per annum and all the money that we raise for operational purposes is raised by running Bunnings BBQ type activities and charging members a small annual fee to cover insurances as well a weekly usage fee.

At present we have around 40 financial members and we open the doors three days per week – Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Membership is open to men and women who may be presently serving in the regular Army, Navy or Air Force, members of the Reserve and to veterans. Our intended aim is to increase the opening times to allow younger veterans who may be still working to enjoy being a part of the workshop. This, of course, means that supervision and 1:1 training on those extra opening days will need to be provided.

The current premises consist of a large shed that is set up with machinery and materials at one end and a small kitchenette, breakaway room and a large meeting room area. Major activities are woodworking activities which include wood turning and creating a wide range of other products primarily for personal use. There is one metal working lathe as well.


Pete’s Community Workshed

Zeehan Men’s ShedA recent trip to Zeehan Men’s Shed was very much enjoyed. The Shed offers a very warm and inviting atmosphere with lots of activity taking place, under the Presidency of Stephen Youd (the current self-confessed Shed crib champion).

Recently the Shed received a donation of 1,000 tonnes of fire wood. At the time of writing a number of members had attended a Chainsaw Operation Course run by TAFE and were busy cutting up the wood to sell at a reduced rate to members of the local community.

The Shed is very much involved with community work having just made some tables for their RSL and are about to commence a project for their Lions Club.

Another fascinating project which members are working on is the ‘clean up’ of the Zeehan Pioneer Cemetery which opened around 1890 and closed somewhere between 1935 and 1940. This is a project that the Shed is working on in conjunction with Council. Home-made pork and veal sausage rolls were enjoyed at lunch time, with lots of jokes shared around the table led by Shedder Keith.

If you are visiting the West Coast, the Shed would really love a visit, as they commented how fantastic it was to have the crew from Central Coast Shed drop in.

Meet AshleyYou can always be guaranteed of some fun when you visit Pete’s Shed at Bridgwater. Apart from being one of our oldest Sheds, there’s always plenty going on apart from a cuppa and some cake! Pete was busy working with some boys from the local school on a project. The chooks were inspecting some of the Shed’s latest handy work – this is a very productive Shed.

Member Ashley took some time to share his story and highlight how the important role that the Shed had played in helping him turn his life around. With a diagnosis of MS at a very early age, medication led to some complications and Ashley found himself isolated for a long period of time. His, is a story of hope and resilience. Pete’s Shed helped him to find purpose again and to start rebuilding his life. A very inspiring leader in his Shed.

Information from Work Safe TasmaniaRecently at our Northern Gathering we were asked for some information with regards to Work Health and Safety in our Sheds.You can find some useful information about Work Health and Safety for volunteer organisations at the following link:

https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/book/essential-guide-work-health-and-safety-volunteers

There is also a free advisory service available offering free presentations to groups – you can actually request a visit on-line at:

https://worksafe.tas.gov.au/safety/request_a_visit

Alternatively you can call the help line on the number below:WorkSafe Tasmania HelplinePO Box 56, ROSNY PARK TAS 7018Ph: 1300 366 322


Howrah Men’s Shed Longford Men’s ShedHowrah extension almost complete!

Tasman ShedBack up and running! Tasman Shed reopens

Ar oun d t he ShedsBruny Island Men’s Shed


Hanging rack with a diff erence

Original bakers delivery box being restored at Sorell

Clarence Plains Community Shed

Sorell Men’s Shed & Heritage Museum

Derwent Valley Men’s Shed

Fire pot Derwent Valley style

Spring Bay Community Boat Shed

Left:A most enjoyable lunch at Spring Bay Community Boat Shed

TMSA will be celebratingInternational Men's Day 19 November 2019

details to follow!

This newsletter is produced with the generous support of

Aurora Energy

Printed on 100% recycled paper A & J Printers, North Hobart

Burnie’s second birthday celebrations

Burnie Men’s Shed

Latrobe Men’s Shed

Veterans and Community Wood CentreVeterans and Community Wood Centre at Kings Meadows proudly wearing their new polos and also their new dust extraction system – a huge thank you to Launceston Fabrication for their support with this project.

Exeter Men’s ShedSimply stunning work from Pete at Exeter Men’s Shed . . . red heart leatherwood with the beautiful grain continuing through all four sides.

tasmanian men’s shed association inc shed news · tmsa now has a new commtitee for 2019–20. i...

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