Denman Men's Shed has received $6,000 in funding under the NSW Government's COVID-19 stimulus program to make a switch to renewable energy and increase their capacity.
Upper House MP Sam Farraway said the funding is part of $2.23 million to be allocated state wide for improvements to men's sheds on Crown land under the program.
"Denman Men's Shed is a home away from home for men in the local community allowing them to gather regularly to share their skills, knowledge and experience which helps keeps them active and productive," Mr Farraway said.
"The $6,608 in stimulus funding for Denman Men's Shed has been used to fund installation of a solar power system to make it more energy efficient and reduce power costs to support the shed's sustainability."
Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said $1 million would be provided this financial year and $1.23 million next financial year for priority upgrade work to a range of men's sheds across NSW.
"Men's shed are places where men can hang out with mates, learn to build things, pass on skills, and give back to their local community," Mrs Pavey said.
Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the funding for men's shed upgrades would support local employment while revitalising essential community hubs.
"By investing in these sheds, we are helping keep people in jobs while ensuring men have a place where they can come together and find community," Mr Perrottet said.
Australian Men's Shed Association NSW president John Sharples said the upgrade projects would empower men and create renewed interest.
"We have nearly 377 sheds in NSW with about 20,000 members and this stimulus funding will make a big difference by improving infrastructure and making workplaces better and safer which will help us attract more members," Mr Sharples said.
