In this heat, not many people would happily being making furniture or workshopping metal without a decent cooling mechanism.
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But this is what Moss Vale Men’s Shed members have been doing for the past five years, with a dusty fan to keep them cool.
This changed on January 31, when they received a new air-conditioning unit, thanks to Harvey Norman Moss Vale.
President Richard Milne said he had asked around the Highlands for an air-conditioner at a reduced price.
“I was put onto [Harvey Norman employee] Lee Sanger-Young, who said he could give me a decent discount,” Mr Milne said.
“He actually dipped into his own pocket to help us, and it’s greatly, greatly appreciated.”
Mr Sanger-Young said he wanted to help the men, because the “blokes at the shed” also support his business.
“It’s very much about the community, they support us and we support them,” he said.
Mr Milne said about 70 men now used the men’s shed, which he described as one of “the greatest things to happen to men in this country”.
“We share a lot of medical stuff, and are well aware of each other, always looking out for each other,” he said.
“We have widowers, those with disabilities and depression, everyone is welcome.”
Member Chris Dudley said while the men could partake in computer lessons, art workshops, woodmaking and metal workshops, it was also about knowing you could go somewhere to have a yarn.
“The fellowship is more important than making whatever, there are a lot of lonely men in the Highlands,” he said.
Cooking classes will also soon be available at the shed, with the installation of a new oven.
The air conditioner will be installed in the meeting room and kitchen, while the old fan will be retired to the metal workshop.
The Moss Vale Men’s Shed is located at the Moss Vale Showground. For more information, visit http://www.mossvalemensshed.org.au/ or call 0490 299 023.