Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards MP has visited the Newstead Men’s Shed to celebrate funding to make this valuable community space even better.

$50,000 from the Allan Labor Government’s Men’s Shed Funding Program will be provided to upgrade the kitchen, fencing and driveway of the Newstead Men’s Shed, to ensure it’s meeting the needs of members, volunteers and the broader community.

This project builds on the significant investment at the Newstead Men’s Shed by the Allan Labor Government in recent years, including over $25,000 for a new extension.

Newstead Men’s Shed provides a welcoming place for people to connect, socialise, learn new skills and work on common projects together.

“A stronger shed means a stronger community – our Newstead Men’s Shed investment makes sure members can keep learning, sharing and supporting one another for years to come,” Ms Edwards said.

“I know that Men’s Sheds provide immense benefits to our communities across Central Victoria, and I’m always proud to support them and their work.

“Congratulations to the Newstead Men’s Shed volunteers for all they’ve achieved, and I can’t wait for these upgrades.”

Across Central Victoria, men’s sheds groups are practical and engaging spaces which support local communities in many ways, such as running first-aid courses, building picnic tables for local schools and making toys for local childcare groups.

The Men’s Shed Funding Program has delivered more than 500 grants across Victoria through ongoing investment and a partnership with the Victorian Men’s Shed Association to strengthen local shed capacity and community impact.

For a full list of recipients, visit vic.gov.au/mens-shed-funding-program.