AN INITIATIVE giving veterans and their family members the opportunity to learn new skills, meet new friends and catch up with old ones is continuing to grow.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The RSL Sheds, at the Bendigo RSL in North Bendigo, is a place where members and affiliate members can meet four days a week to do such activities as leadlighting, woodworking, metalworking, art, photography and computer skills.
There is sometimes even a barber on hand to give haircuts and for those who want nothing more than to relax, there is often someone around who is keen for a cuppa, a biscuit and a chat.
“The main purpose of the Sheds is for the health and well-being of veterans,” co-ordinator Bob English said.
The concept is similar to that of the Men’s Sheds that can be found across Australia, but at the RSL, both men and women can get involved.
Mr English said the project had started nearly six years ago with 40 members, a figure that had since grown to more than 130 and continued to rise.
The Sheds gave people an opportunity to indulge their interests, he said, and associate with like-minded people.
Skill-sharing is a key element the initiative and members who have been learning a particular skill for a while can often be found helping newer members master techniques.
Bendigo RSL Sub-branch president Cliff Richards came up with the idea about 10 years ago, with the RSL in the name standing not only for the Sheds’ umbrella organisation, but also relaxation, skills and leisure.
Mr Richards said there were no additional fees for members and affiliate members to take part, and most materials were supplied.
Cath Wallace was among a group of women making leadlight yesterday morning.
“We have a lot of fun and get to talk to other women,” Mrs Wallace said.
She said everyone loved getting involved.
“It’s just a really nice place to be,” she said.
Helen McKinnon was also learning leadlighting skills yesterday and said participating in the RSL Sheds programs was a good opportunity for people to talk, share experiences and get things off their chest.
“It’s especially good for men, they tend to bottle things up,” she said.