By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
THE blokes of Leopold have welcomed their very own men’s shed with open arms.
Shed president Phil Hayden said ample volunteers were available to help set up the newest addition to the range of men’s sheds across Geelong.
“We had a public meeting about it and 15 people turned up. I was flabbergasted because I heard other groups struggled get off the ground,” Mr Hayden said.
“We were looking around for a site until Club Italia was suggested. They had a storage area where the social club originally began and they were happy for us to use it.
“We cleaned it up, rebuilt the change rooms and added a kitchen because you need a cuppa and a biscuit so you can sit and talk about everything and nothing.”
The response from the community “knocked my socks off”, Mr Hayden said.
“We had equipment donations coming in from everywhere. The City of Greater Geelong, Bendigo Community Bank, Barry Plant Real Estate and the Lions Club all kicked in and Club Italia did its best to make us happy.
“The commitment is unbelievable. It’s the most fun I’ve had,” he said.
“It’s great to see a bunch of blokes willing to help themselves and look after each other.
“One bloke stood up and said, ‘I want to thank you for making this the most fun two hours of my week’. Another came because his doctor recommended it.
“We don’t run by rules and regulations – there’s no need for an apology if you can’t make it – and we’re pretty laid back.”
Mr Hayden said the group was now planning fund-raising and community assistance projects.
