Benalla Men’s shed celebrates 10 year anniversary

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.

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.

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.