After little more than a month in operation the Cargo Men’s Shed has been given a timely funding boost by the federal government’s National Shed Development Program. It’s been granted $1,500 for new equipment and is one of five regional sheds included in the 102 organisations across Australia to receive grants under round seven of the national men’s shed program.
The $1,500 is for tools and equipment, and will provide the Cargo group with a table saw, dust collector, scroll saw, finisher sander, bench drills and air compressor. Other grants ranging from $3,000 to $6,250 have also been awarded to men’s sheds at Manildra, Yeoval, Portland and Cudal and District. Cudal received the highest amount, a Building and Maintenance development grant which will pay for “plumbing and drainage connections, including fittings and fixtures.”
Announcing the grants, Calare MP John Cobb said all sheds in Australia are eligible to apply for funding up to $8,000. “I look forward to seeing what the men will do with these well-deserved funds” he added, “men’s sheds are such a fantastic concept – it’s about getting together, doing practical things and undertaking projects that benefit the community, while keeping an eye on our mates.
By Derek Maitland