Ocean Grove men homeless as council ‘rejects’ suggestions for shed

Kim Waters
A STRUGGLING men’s program is battling council for a permanent home at Ocean Grove, according to members.
Men’s Shed Ocean Grove organiser Ernie Mason said council had knocked pleas to investigate potential sites for the program, designed to give men a social outlet within their communities.
Mr Mason said the Ocean Grove members were stuck sharing Queenscliff’s Men’s Shed.
“We’ve drawn opposition from council to all our suggestions.
“We considered some land in Kingston Park and at the Collendina reserve but both were knocked back. We’ve spoken to the sport and recreation council staff and they said we wouldn’t get any sporting and recreation land.
“We’re lost as to what we should do. There are so many men in the community who would benefit from this program and we desperately need a permanent place.”
Mr Mason said council had encouraged the men to look for a “commercial space”.
Ocean Grove councillor Jan Farrell said the Men’s Shed program was an “important project”.
She denied council had knocked the group’s bids for a home on recreation reserves.
“At my request, council officers are evaluating several council-owned sites in Ocean Grove including Kingston Park, Tuckfield Street, The Parade and Collendina Reserve,” Cr Farrell said.
“Obviously, council-owned land is the most suitable as it comes at no cost to the project.”