Former Mayor Scott Upston and Men's Shed president Lou Sigmund signed a lease for a new shed on Waller St in May of 2019.
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Contributed
In 2012, Benalla’s Gary Versteegen, supported by wife Desma, embarked on a journey that would leave an indelible mark on Benalla and district.
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He started the Benalla Myna Bird Group at CAL Farm on Sydney Rd.
Alongside his neighbour Ron Cross, Gary and a group of local retired men gathered twice a week to craft Myna Bird Traps.
For members, the camaraderie and mateship became as important as the process of helping to control invasive wildlife.
In the early days, Desma ensured that the group remained nourished with her homemade cakes and cupcakes.
Camaraderie: Shedders in Benalla, pictured in 2018 after completing the restoration of the old Bertalli's bread cart.
Photo by
Simon Ruppert
The club grew to a point where the Versteegens extended their hospitality, organising fishing trips and barbecues.
Over the past decade, the Benalla Myna Bird Group has evolved from a modest gathering of retirees into a local men’s shed, which has become a catalyst for positive change within the community.
In 2016, Benalla Men’s Shed president Lou Sigmund took the club into a new era, securing new premises at 101 Waller St.
The men’s shed undertakes a range of community minded activities each and every year.
Former Benalla Mayor Bernie Hearn officially opened the new Men's Shed.
Photo by
Simon Ruppert
Among its recent undertakings, the club has built a cubby-house for the Waminda Community House, generously funded by Benalla’s Masonic Lodge.
The club has recently been involved in a unique project - creating a pillow fighting stand for South Asian New Year Events.
Benalla Men's Shed isn't just a workshop, it's a hub of camaraderie and community spirit.
Other projects undertaken in 2024 include
Building fortified picnic shelters for Benalla City Rural Council.
Making comfortable seating at the Benalla skate park with an aluminium two-tier seating and shade sail installation.
Creating intricately crafted tree book sleeves and festive decorations for Benalla Library.
The ‘Bikes R Us’ initiative refurbishing donated bicycles, ensuring they find new homes at affordable prices.
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