Many years ago, no one is quite sure how many, men would gather at Jimmy Byrne’s property on Bruxner Road near Drake.

There used to be 30 members in those days. When Jimmy died he left a legacy – his property.

The sale of Jimmy’s place has funded a big, new shed on Allison Road in Drake.

Because of the gap in time since the men came together, the members are regrouping and inviting past and new members to rejoin the Drake Men’s Shed.

The 20m by 10m shed is next to the cricket club and oval in Drake.

There is still a lot of work to do.

There will be an office in the shed and a machinery centre. Two new water tanks are going in and the electrics need to be finished.

Men’s shed president Dash Scofield said they should be in by the end of the year.

Helen Nauschutz used to be the secretary and she is hoping someone new will step into this role. Helen has been made a life member by the Australian Men’s Shed Association.

The shed is on Crown land which means the group can apply for grants for tools and equipment for the shed.

The shed is predominantly for men, with members considering some community days for everyone.

Drake has a Women’s Shed already operating out of the hall.

Jimmy’s ashes are buried under a fig tree at his former home.

The members plan to honour him with a plaque and photo at the Drake Men’s Shed.

Anyone interested in joining the shed can call Dash on 0407 393 945.

This article appeared on indyNR.com on 10 July 2025.