KILKIVAN, QUEENSLAND
The community of Kilkivan is one step closer to its Veteran’s and Community Men’s Shed opening thanks to the support of Highways and Byways.
A small grant meant the new shed could be connected to electricity, so that its fit out with facilities and equipment for a Men’s Shed could be finalised.
Kilkivan is a small township 50 kilometres from Gympie in eastern Queensland with few services for residents. Many are ageing, and isolation and persistent drought have left a legacy, impacting the wellbeing and resources of the community.
The Men’s Shed will provide a safe place for people of the immediate and wider community to come together develop and share their skills in woodwork, metal work and small engine repairs. And while its name might not suggest it, the Shed will most definitely welcome women.
Its kitchen will available to the community during emergencies in the area, and an office area will provide space wellbeing services such as financial advice and emotional support.
It will also be there as a venue for locals to pop in to share a cuppa and something to eat, especially after appointments at the town’s medical centre, which is located on in the same site. Visitors or those passing though, especially Armed Forces Veterans who come through Kilkivan on motor bikes, will be encouraged to drop in too.
For now though, the Association is working towards a mid-year opening, awaiting final Council approval on its disability accessible car park.
Kilkivan Veterans and Community Men’s Shed is looking forward to providing a range of community services, including the support of vulnerable locals with work like mowing, gardening and small building projects. Afterall, it will now have the equipment – and a safe place to store it.