A very good turnout at our first "Vocational" meeting of the year, at our neighbors just over the fence at the "Men's Shed".
Prior to the tour of the facility, Men's Shed member Alan Minson spoke to the group, talking about the history behind the organisation, how the building, land and facilities were aquired and how they are funded and operate.
The current membership sits at 195, (including five females) and the membership has been growing at a rate of 5 - 6 new members every month.
The Men's Shed is a not for profit organisation, but their costs to operate grow and are high. Apart from individual members fees, and grants, a large percentage of the income is derived from securing contracts to support activity in the community. One of the most successful projects undertaken has been the construction of "Traps", (to catch rats and stoats), on behalf of the Eastern Bays Songbird Project. To date the Men's Shed has made over 9,000 traps.
Another very successful contract that they have had has been the construction of "Plant and Seedlings Storage Frames", made on behalf of Trees for Survival, another successful Rotary associated organisation.
Following the introductory talk a BBQ Breakfast, cooked by Men's Shed members, was served, followed by a tour of the facility. Once again Mr. Fabian put his hand in his pocket and supplied all the ingredients for the meal. Thank you Graham again, for your very generous and much appreciated support of the club.
These few photos don't do the facility and the wide variety of activity carried out on the premises justice, but it is a very impressive organisation and obviously a very well used and equipped "Shed".
St, Johns members certainly appeared to enjoy the opportunity to visit our neigbours and our sincere thanks to the Men's Shed for hosting us.
