Welcome
I hope this edition of the newsletter finds you well, happy, and making the most of life.
Our annual membership renewal process, which commenced on 1 April, is progressing well. The great news is that we are approaching 50 membership renewals. Thank you to everyone who has already renewed. It is encouraging to see such strong support from our local community.
For members who have not yet renewed, we encourage you to do so at your earliest convenience. Your membership helps keep the Shed operating, maintain and upgrade our equipment, and continue improving our facilities for the benefit of all.
In addition to membership support, our ongoing fundraising activities—including the Footy Gate, Wandi Nut Festival and Book Fair—as well as grant applications, play a crucial role in helping us maintain and improve the Shed for current and future members.
Membership Payment Details
Please transfer your $60.00 membership fee to the BUMS account:
BSB: 633 000
Account Number: 131069429
Please include your name as the payment reference to assist us in processing your renewal.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to BUMS. Together, we can continue to strengthen and grow our Shed for the benefit of our members and the wider community.
Onward and upward—shoulder to shoulder.
New Inductees
I would like to welcome our newest member to the Shed:
- Ben Feher
Men’s Sheds provide a wide range of activities centred on camaraderie and skill-sharing, including woodworking, metalworking, repairs and community projects.
Beyond the practical work, they play an important role in supporting mental health by reducing isolation, building self-esteem and providing a renewed sense of purpose, particularly during retirement. They also encourage meaningful participation in community life.
Just as importantly, Sheds provide both physical and mental health benefits while fostering friendships in a supportive, shoulder-to-shoulder environment.
Simply put, the more you put into the Shed, the more you will get out of it.
From Our Money Maestro
Treasurer Simon’s May report confirmed that the Shed remains in a stable financial position with no significant variations from budget.
Key Discussion Points
- Membership currently sits at 48 members, including one honorary member and one life member.
- The committee agreed it would be desirable to increase membership to 50 members.
- Membership income is tracking slightly behind the previous year.
- Football and netball gate revenue spans two financial years and reporting reflects this.
- Both term deposits are due to mature around October/November 2026 and will be consolidated into a single investment.
- A replacement defibrillator and cabinet have been ordered and are expected to be installed externally shortly.
- The committee agreed to retain the liquor licence due to its low annual cost and the difficulty of reapplying if surrendered.
- A current register of members holding RSA qualifications is being compiled.
- Members requiring RSA certification or renewal will be encouraged to complete the free online training.
Work is continuing behind the scenes to streamline several administrative accounts and services, including Tyro, Telstra and compliance documentation. These improvements will increase efficiency and reduce ongoing costs.
Australia Post Community Grants Program
Our BUMS Australia Post Community Grant project continues to progress well, and we have recently completed another successful initiative.
The Spring Indoor Pilates Program, conducted by Physio Julie at OVPP, has now concluded with very positive feedback from participants. The program provided an excellent opportunity for members to improve their physical wellbeing, connect with others and enjoy a supportive environment.
We continue to explore opportunities for workshops, training programs, wellbeing initiatives and social activities that help reduce isolation and enhance member wellbeing.
Potential future activities include:
- Welding workshops
- Social events and gatherings
- Digital training and technology assistance
- Mindfulness and meditation sessions
- CPR and basic first aid training
As always, we welcome suggestions from members regarding programs and activities they would like to see delivered through this valuable grant initiative.
Building Compliance Project Update
We have applied for funding through the Victorian Government’s Men’s Shed Funding Program (up to $100,000) to assist with building compliance works and facility upgrades.
The program is designed to help not-for-profit organisations build, extend or refurbish facilities, purchase major equipment, reduce social isolation and promote positive health outcomes for men.
Car Hoist Legal Compliance & Certification
We have received a number of enquiries regarding when the car hoist may become operational again.
Reinstating the hoist remains a priority for the Shed. The primary challenge is achieving full compliance, with indicative costs currently estimated at between $8,000 and $10,000.
Investigations to date suggest the existing concrete slab may not meet the required specifications for thickness and compressive strength. As a result, some form of structural upgrade is likely to be required before the hoist can be certified for use.
A number of options are currently being explored, including:
- Localised footing upgrades
- Independent engineering assessment and advice
- Alternative compliance solutions
- Future grant funding opportunities to assist with costs
We will continue to keep members informed as investigations progress. Our aim is to identify the most practical, safe and cost-effective pathway to returning the hoist to service.
Get Involved – Committee & Support Roles
As we move towards our AGM later this year, it is an ideal time to consider how we continue building on the strong foundations established over recent years.
Through the efforts of many volunteers, BUMS has strengthened its governance, improved its facilities and expanded opportunities for members. The next step is ensuring we have a new generation of members ready to help lead and support the Shed into the future.
Fresh ideas, new skills and greater participation will help ensure BUMS remains vibrant, welcoming and sustainable for many years to come.
I encourage any member interested in contributing to the future of the Shed—particularly newer and younger members—to consider becoming involved through committee or support roles as we approach the AGM.
Together, we can continue building a strong and inclusive organisation that serves both current members and future generations of our community.
Star Hotel Mates’ Day Generosity
Members will recall that the Star Hotel generously offered to host a Mates’ Day fundraiser in support of BUMS and AMSG by sharing the proceeds from its major raffle. As it turned out, the Star went one step further, donating the proceeds from all raffles conducted throughout May to both organisations.
A total of $1,163.00 was raised, with $581.50 deposited into each organisation’s account.
This outstanding contribution will assist both groups with ongoing operating expenses and community activities. It was a wonderful gesture of community support and generosity from the Star Hotel team.
I have written to Venue Manager Timothy Witherow on behalf of both organisations to express our sincere appreciation for this generous contribution and to thank the Star Hotel team for their continued support of local community groups.
Hi Tim,
What wonderful news.
On behalf of both our groups, I would like to sincerely thank you and the Star Hotel for your terrific Mates’ Day initiative, which has resulted in these much-needed and greatly appreciated funds being raised for our organisations.
As you would be aware, community-based, not-for-profit organisations such as ours exist to provide a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment where members can connect, contribute and feel a sense of belonging. Our aim is to improve the health and wellbeing of our members while also giving back to the local community wherever we can. Donations such as yours play a vital role in helping us achieve these goals and continue providing valuable support to those who benefit from our services.
Thank you again for your generosity and for choosing to support local community groups through this fantastic initiative. Please also pass on our appreciation to everyone involved at the Star Hotel.
Kind regards,
Bruce Nordeck
President
Bright United Men’s Shed
P.S. On a personal note, Friday Trivia with the incredibly talented and witty Wayneo is one of the highlights of my week.
A Little Wisdom Perhaps……….
Embrace the Unexpected: “It is not the critic who counts… the credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena.” — Theodore Roosevelt
Until next time,
Bruce Pres.