YEA, VIC. — Murrindindi Shire Council has secured $34,874 through the Victorian Government’s Men’s Shed Funding Program 2026-27 to support an expansion of the Yea Men’s Shed, helping create more opportunities for community connection, learning and participation.
The funding will support an extension to the Shed’s existing mezzanine, increasing the functional space available for members and enabling a broader range of activities and programs to be delivered.
Importantly, the additional space will provide greater flexibility for both formal and informal activities, supporting interests such as model making and repairs, electronics, 3D printing and information technology, while also creating more opportunities for social connection and community participation. Activities at the Men’s Shed continue to evolve, catering to a broader range of interests and needs at a time when membership and participation are growing.
Cheviot Ward Councillor Sue Carpenter welcomed the funding announcement and recognised the important role the Yea Men’s Shed plays in supporting the health and wellbeing of the local community.
“The Yea Men’s Shed is much more than a workshop. It’s a place where people can come together, share skills, build friendships and stay connected to their community,” Cr Carpenter said.
“This funding will help the Men’s Shed welcome more participants, expand its activities and continue providing a safe and inclusive space that supports wellbeing, social connection and lifelong learning.”
The Yea Men’s Shed currently has 33 members, and participation has more than doubled since COVID in 2020. This growth has increased demand for activities and programs, with the current facility limiting the number of participants and types of activities that can be accommodated.
The project responds to growing demand for activities and programs at the Yea Men’s Shed, with the current facility limiting the number of participants and types of activities that can be accommodated.
Yea Men’s Shed President Gary Tuck said the expansion would create new opportunities for members and the broader community.
“This additional space will allow us to offer more activities and provide greater opportunities for people to come together, learn new skills and connect with others, creating benefits for local residents for decades and generations to come.” Mr Tuck said.
“Yea Men’s Shed acknowledges the support of the Victorian Government and Murrindindi Shire Council in helping us continue to grow, enhance our existing programs and meet the evolving needs of our community.”
Murrindindi Shire Council will work closely with the Yea Men’s Shed committee to deliver the project over the next twelve months, increasing the space available for activities, learning and community participation.
