Mel Vau

For the past 3 years we have planned to open the first sole purpose multicultural men's shed in Australia.

Our concept to build a Men’s Shed in Springvale will provide a valuable asset for the surrounding community.
There is a lot of support from the community for our men's shed. We have raised funds to cover all steps in getting the shed onto the site and for the external refurbishment.
There are many different types of Men's Shed around the country all providing a very valuable service. We see an opportunity to develop a Men's Shed that is purpose-built for and specific to the needs of men from multicultural backgrounds.

For some men it is difficult to take the initial steps and participate in any existing Men’s Shed programs and activities. This is due in part to language and customs and being disengaged from the wider community.

Springvale Multicultural Men's Shed is a real opportunity for men from many different cultural backgrounds to come together in a supported environment to build tolerance, understanding and community relationships.

We want a place for men to talk through issues confronting them and a place for learning vocational skills that will enable decent jobs to be found for new arrivals or those that have faced job losses or unemployment.
For men that may have family or health concerns we will partner with agencies that bring wider support and services.

We want the Shed to be a place for engaging young men on issues around employment and community.
It is a place where men can feel welcome, a place for men to understand the difference in others and accept those differences.
We want to explore leadership and build a voice for change.

We want a space for families and to encourage belonging.

It is a Shed that can make a difference to our local community!

In February 2014 the shed arrived onsite at 49 Balmoral Avenue Springvale. It is an old double classroom which we plan to refurbish into a multipurpose space.

We have a quote for $12,000 to build a verandah which will provide all weather access and enhance the shed by creating a welcoming space - a place for informal chats, and sharing a cuppa.
We have raised the $12,000 through community fund-raising events and BBQs to cover this cost.
The additional $6,000 will be used to refit the shed which was formerly a school portable.

Over the past 3 years, the project has overcome many challenges, including meeting planning requirements, sourcing an existing shed, raising funds for each step through community fundraising.

Future challenges will be faced with the same community spirit.

Ongoing funds to run the shed will rely on support from the community and government.