Building community, one project at a time

At the heart of Victoria Park, the Vic Park Men’s Shed has become a place of connection, creativity, and companionship. With around 35 members from all walks of life, from tradies and GPs to scientists, instrument makers, and even university professors, the Shed offers more than just woodworking and gardening. It’s a space where men can share skills, enjoy a coffee, play chess or darts, and most importantly, find mateship. 

The idea of building new wood racks came out of necessity. The Kensington PCYC, where the Shed is based, asked them to tidy up and, with trailers full of timber, the members recognised  the need for a proper storage solution.  

Vic Park Men’s Shed Treasurer, Mark, said that it forced them to do what they knew they should have done a long time ago.  

However, sourcing materials wasn’t easy as the Shed usually relies on scrap steel and materials and lives within modest means, covering water and electricity, while in the fortunate position not to pay rent. That’s when Monos’ stepped in. 

“Three thousand dollars is a huge donation, and it means so much to us,” Mark said.  

“It also arrived at just the right time when we were puzzling over what to do. Normally we’d try to source the steel from scrap, but the donation meant we could go out and buy it ourselves.” 

Mike, who once worked for Monadelphous as a casual mechanical fitter in the early 1990s, drew up the design for the racks.  

“Drafting was part of my mechanical fitting apprenticeship, so I knew how to do it,” he said.  

“I gave Dave, who wanted to learn, a few lessons on bits of scrap, and we started welding together. Then he started doing it himself.”  

The new racks have transformed day-to-day operations. With stacks of reused jarrah now sorted by size, type, and finish, members no longer need to rummage through trailers to find the right piece of wood.  

“The three racks make everything more efficient. They have also improved safety and organisation, and we have plans for one more A-frame to complete the system,” Mike said.  

Beyond the practical improvements, the sponsorship carries deep personal meaning. 

“It’s nice to know that the community thinks about us. That, I think, is huge. We’re being very productive, so it’s great to be acknowledged,” Mark said. 

EC Projects General Manager, Brett Waters said that the support for the Vic Park Men’s Shed is about more than materials.  

“It’s about backing a place that gives people connection and purpose,” Brett said.  

“Local initiatives like this are where community spirit thrives, and we’re proud to play a part in helping that continue.” 

The Shed has become a lifeline for many members, offering a safe and welcoming space where men can connect, share experiences, and support one another through life’s challenges. Whether it’s restoring antique furniture, building a symbolic blue tree to raise awareness for mental health, or simply enjoying a laugh over coffee, the Shed provides meaning and companionship that extends far beyond the workshop. 

“From the mental point of view, it’s really just about getting blokes together. If it wasn’t for the Men’s Shed, I’d be struggling. Coming down here, you get a laugh, you’ve got something to get out of bed for. It gives you a purpose without the stress,” Mark said.  

Looking ahead, the Shed has ambitious plans to expand its activities and strengthen its role in the community. A new bike shed is on the horizon, as is a dedicated clean room for painting and refurbishing, away from dust-producing tools. Members are also developing larger gardening projects, with a commitment to donating half of their produce. With growing interest, there’s even talk of introducing pottery, if further community support can be secured. 

As the Shed continues to grow, its members remain grateful for the support that allows them to keep building – not just wood racks, but friendships, skills, and a stronger community.