There are over 1200 Men’s Sheds in Australia. Bringing men together, working shoulder to shoulder, helping each other through life. Serving their communities, just like your Helensburgh Shed serves the 2508 area and beyond. One way in which we are helping our locals is through our new “Introduction to Woodworking for Women” classes.

Wednesday the 7th of February saw a full class of 10 excited ladies learning the basics of woodwork safety, measuring, cutting the raw material, and machining the timber to create their first project, a brushbox and maple cheese board. Stephen Dodd, Ron Balderston, Mike Croft, and Peter White were the happy instructors.

I popped into the second class and had a quick chat with some of the ladies as they worked on their projects. Cathy came to the class to reinvigorate the woodwork knowledge learned from her dad, and to fulfill her dream of restoring a cherished old cabinet. Lou was keen to learn how to do things properly, enjoying the modern equipment the Shed had to offer. And now Kelly’s kids were both at school, she had time to be creative – that new bench will be excellent, Kelly!

So many great stories; Kim enjoying her Maycation; maybe she will go back to work after her leave or maybe she…; Kerrie, learning new skills so she can restore her 1900s daybed, and Lyn, who as a schoolkid wasn’t allowed to do woodwork; well, she is making up for lost time at the Ladies classes.

Some ladies have come along to meet new people and share life. And a lady who is interested in turning her new-found skills and love of timber into perhaps a new start in life.

So many stories. Would you like to be a part of this? Just as the men at the Burgh Shed have, a new way to serve the community, enjoy others' company, and have fun.

All the best, ladies, and thanks for coming along. If you are interested in learning too;

https://forms.gle/teb6pp8oXo77752Q8

None of this would be possible without the generous support of our Sponsors. Helensburgh Anglican Church, Tops Conference Centre, Equilibrium Healthcare, Helensburgh Car Services, Ian Pepper REA, Razamataz Mobile Car Wash, Helensburgh Tyres, and Gary Laker, thank you all so much.