The Cromwell MenzShed was once housed in a dilapidated shed, but members are one step closer to their new purpose-built 300sqm facility on Bannockburn Rd.

Recently securing $120,000 from the Otago Community Trust, combined with $200,000 from Central Lakes Trust in 2023, the group of almost 60 members also managed to raise $70,000 - $80,000 from the paid work it does in the community.

But, they are still $400,000 short and the current site is “completely maxed out” and almost a health and safety issue, trustee and funding co-ordinator Russ Fowler said.

It currently operated out of two 40-foot containers and rotated the morning tea breaks to fit everyone inside.

The new shed will allow the organisation to expand its membership and increase the number of community projects its members can take on, from building wheelchair ramps to constructing mud kitchens for schools.

The new building will have a meeting room, which could be hired by other groups, toilets and an office as well as a large workshop.

“The MenzShed is integral to the community network . . . it creates an environment where topics such as personal wellbeing, and other men's health issues, can be safely discussed either one on one or as an organised group session,” he said.

Cromwell Foodbank has a set of new shelves, carefully crafted by members of the Cromwell Menz Shed. PHOTO: Supplied

Made up of mostly retired tradesmen, along with others looking to learn new skills, the reason for the ever-growing membership was due to a lot of people retiring to Cromwell and needing an escape from ‘underfoot syndrome,’ Russ said. 

“Even though there is a lot of work going on in Cromwell, these people have done their time and want to give back to the community,” he said.

Bigger and more ambitious projects are on the horizon - “they are all about looking for the next community project, and that’s what they get out of bed for every morning.”

The ambitious $900,000 project has already been designed and signed off, and the group was working with the Central Otago District Council on the requirements for the consent.

Then there will be more funding to apply for, projects to keep on with - helping both the community and individuals in need, and making a little bit more income for itself.