The Eden Men’s Shed Inc. has been honoured with one of two Men’s Health Awards at the 2024 National Men’s Sheds Awards. Supported by Fair Dinkum Builds, these awards celebrate the incredible contributions of Men’s Sheds across the country.
Eden Men’s Shed has developed a strong partnership with the Southern NSW Local Health District, focusing on the health and well-being of its members. The Shed regularly invites guest speakers from the NSW Government’s Southern NSW Local Health District and other organisations to address important health topics. These range from prostate cancer and dementia to first aid and proper use of their on-site defibrillator.
Far South Coast Health Muster
In addition, with support from an NSDP grant, Eden Men’s Shed organised the inaugural Far South Coast Men’s Health Muster in March 2023. The event brought together 55 members from 10 different Sheds, including participants from Narooma and Cooma in New South Wales, Bemm River in Victoria, and members of the local community. Nine health and community organizations set up stalls to provide valuable advice and information during breaks.
The Muster featured four speakers who covered topics like managing pharmaceuticals and mental health. A standout moment of the day was a presentation by Wayne Wigham from the Black Dog Institute, which received high praise from attendees.
Lou Busuttil, said “We received such great feedback from the Muster about the content, but also about the fantastic networking with other men’s sheds it provided. So much so that we decided to do it again the next year!”
Building on the success of the first Muster, Eden Men’s Shed hosted the second Far South Coast Men’s Health Muster in 2024. This event saw even greater participation, with over 65 attendees, including community members, 13 information stalls, and six engaging speakers. The 2024 Muster addressed crucial topics such as prostate cancer, the importance of exercise (which included a group participation session), and mental health challenges like suicide and depression. A talk by Leota “Freddy” Purcell from talk2mebro deeply resonated with participants and was a highlight of the day.
This year, the Narooma Shed have taken over the reins, and are pleased to be hosting the Far South Coast Men’s Health Muster on the 8th May.
Apply for a grant to run a health event
If your shed is interested in running a health event such as these, apply for a NSDP grant in the Category 1-Health and wellbeing and events. Applications close for Category 1-4 Friday 21 February 2025, while Category 5 closes on, 7 March 2025. For more information on the grants, click here.
AMSA also has an Events model/template and Manual (Log-in required – click here The Men’s Shed Gathering and Health Event Manual) which makes planning a health event straight forwarded and is highly recommended.