Who we are
Buderim Men’s Shed is a non-profit, non-commercial community organisation providing a safe and friendly meeting place for men to work on projects in the company of other men.
Established in early 2011 as an initiative of Buderim Rotary Club, the temporary home for Buderim Men’s Shed at Mill Road in Buderim was very generously provided by owners Dr. Bill Glasson and Prof. Claire Jackson. This became the setting for more than 250 members to meet, socialise and undertake meaningful projects, at their own pace and in their own time with the advantage of guided supervision by experienced tradesmen and professionals. We have since built our new home at 38 Advance Road Kuluin, where we continue to provide a welcoming place for our members to meet.
We are incorporated and affiliated with the Australian and Queensland Chapters of the Men’s Shed Association.
A major objective of the Men’s Shed is to advance the health, well being and social inclusion of all members through interest-based activities. We do this by welcoming men to meet and work on projects that are first and foremost personally satisfying and in many cases making an important contribution to the wider community.
What we do
Buderim Men’s Shed is a place for members to meet in a convivial atmosphere, gain knowledge and improve their health. It’s a place where they can learn or teach a variety of professional and trade skills, or just relax in the company of other like-minded men. The Men’s Shed also provides opportunities for members to undertake personal, Men’s Shed or community-based projects. Members’ interests span an extensive range of activities.
They include woodwork, wood turning, toy making, metal work, small engine repairs, gardening, art and sketching, computing, discussion groups, French polishing, leather work, library, health and welfare group, music and instrument playing and upholstery. More activities to keep pace with membership needs and aspirations are being considered.
Why we do it
The Men’s Shed was established to respond at a local level to a growing national need for suitable places for men to socialise, participate and contribute. The positive health and wellbeing outcomes from the provision of opportunities like this are now well documented and Buderim with its strong community spirit has always been at the forefront of community capacity building. The demand and dramatic growth in membership over the past two years, together with the achievements and enthusiasm of members is ample proof of its worth and value to the wider community.
Community Work
Over the past two years, the Buderim Men’s Shed has helped many community groups. They include:
- The Buderim Foundation
- Buderim War Memorial Community Association
- Buderim Amateur Theatre Group
- Vietnam Veterans association
- Queensland Olympic Council
- Sunshine Coast Regional Council
- Wildlife Australia
- Sunshine Coast Rowing Club
- Buderim Library and Craft Cottage
- A number of local schools
The Buderim Men’s Shed Shop
We operate a shop in Buderim village where you can browse and purchase a fantastic array of articles on sale, showcasing the artistic and creative craftsmanship that our members are renowned for.
We are presently looking for new premises and will announce our new location as soon as one comes available.
What we don’t do
The Men’s Shed does not just fix furniture and make toys. We do not generally do repairs or undertake projects for the general public, nor do we compete against commercial businesses. The Men’s Shed is not an alternative or replacement for professional tradespersons or other qualified craftsmen. The Men’s Shed is not a welfare shelter, nor is it an alternative or replacement for the services provided by appropriate health and medical professionals.
How we do it
The Buderim Men’s Shed is open Monday to Friday between 8:30am and 3:30pm; activities are spread out over those days. We have an open door policy, conducting all activities in a non-discriminating manner and with a strong emphasis on the needs and wellbeing of all members. We also maintain a strong focus on safe work practices at all times.
The future
We have recently opened our new Shed at 38 Advance Road Kuluin, which will be our permanent home.
Acknowledgement
Our sincere thanks to grant donors:
- Australian Government
- Queensland State Government
- Sunshine Coast Regional Council
- Rotary Club of Buderim
- Buderim Foundation
- Buderim Bendigo Bank
- Other members of the community
Thank you all for your kind donations support and advise in helping us to get the Buderim Men’s Shed so well established.