Volunteering rates Australia-wide are yet to fully recover to their pre-Covid levels, according to new research. Newstead Men’s Shed is no exception when it comes to attracting volunteers.
Like many other community groups and clubs and associations, the call is out to attract new people. “We’re finding it really difficult to engage with what you could almost call ‘the next generation’ of people for the Shed,” said Secretary Graeme Lees.
L to R – Dave, Chris and Ray. Dave, Chris and Ray share their knowledge and skills, and welcome new members to Newstead Men’s Shed.
Photos: Tarrangower Times
As reported in the [Tarrangower] Times last week, the Newstead Men’s Shed extension being built will be used as a hub for seminars, training, and meetings. “The goal is to provide a space where members can learn to use digital devices in a supportive environment, with the hope of improving their ability to communicate and connect with others.”
“Some older members feel nervous around operating a mobile phone. Yet they have no problem operating highly technical machines. Machines that younger members see older members mastering, then saying ‘I wish I could do that!’ The extension will allow us to run training programs, so members can feel as confident with their digital devices as they are with their tools and machinery,” said Graeme.
The Shed recognises the importance of getting families on board and supporting their members’ involvement. To find out more about volunteering, you can catch up with Graeme at Newstead Men’s Shed Mondays and Tuesdays 9am to 3pm. Or phone Graeme direct on 0418 723 196.
This article appeared in the Tarrangower Times, 26 April 2024.
