A MEN’S SHED like no o ther
Tucked away at the back of the back of the Coolum Eco Industrial Park, you’ll find a very special shed.
Like most sheds, it has tools and blokes who know how to use them.
But this isn’t any ordinary shed. This is the Coolum Men’s Shed, a not-forprofit gem of the local community.
In the Shed you’ll find carpenters, bus drivers, media personalities, surgeons, politicians, retired policemen and a diverse range of other professions among the current members.
I spoke with the President, Charlie Thomson, and asked him a few questions about the Men’s Shed and why it plays such an important role in the community.
Why do they come to the Shed?
The answer was simple; mental health, social interaction and community. In short, it’s for men with a strong desire to live a meaningful life in a supportive environment surrounded by like-minded people.
It is well known that human beings need company to live a fulfilling life. Unfortunately, not everyone is blessed with a network of friends and family to fulfil this goal. And that’s where the Men’s Shed plays a leading role.
Operating for over 12 years, with 130 members and 30-40 members visiting every week, the Shed has become a sanctuary for mateship, craftsmanship and community support for those looking for something extra in their life.
So what goes on in the Shed?
Anything really. From woodworking workshops, BBQ’s, gardening, painting, Music Group, and sharing a good laugh, the members don’t just come for the free coffee.
How old are the members?
With ages of members ranging from a 22 year old who got his life back on track with the guidance and friendship of the older members, to Athol, the popular 90 year old who can banter with the best of them, the Shed proves that age is not a factor to mateship.
Membership costs only $80 per year, and membership numbers have steadily grown to 130 strong in 2024.
Open Monday, Wednesday and Friday, the lads would love it if you came down for a visit to see what goes on.
Every Friday there is a $5 lunch with BBQ, pasta and tapas being some of the recent offerings.
Hoy 0421 004 484 cory.hoy@raywhite.com
The Shed welcomes all men!
So if you’re looking for some company or even just to share your skills in a way that can help raise more funds for this much-needed community service, the lads will welcome you with open arms.
With plans to expand the space (with help from EDQ), we have a feeling you’ll be hearing a lot more about the Shed in 2025 and beyond.
So, get down there and say hi to Charlie and the members to see it for yourself.
How can you help?
They won’t ask for donations, but we have no problem asking on their behalf.
You can make a cash donation, provide materials or tools for woodworking, or help by buying some of the artwork, picture frames, cutting boards and other projects the members have worked meticulously to will into existence. All funds go back into the project to help keep the lights on (and rates paid).
What about the Coolum Women’s Shed you ask?
Stay tuned, that’s next.
Cory Hoy Sales & Leasing Executive
0421 004 484
cory.hoy@raywhite.com
Fraser Martin Sales & Leasing
0423 273 438 fraser.martin@raywhite.com