Len mentioned that a few other blokes were keen and at the first meeting, Bill was elected first president of the Wahgunyah Men’s Shed.
“John Clapton was the secretary, and we had no money so I don’t think we had a treasurer,” Bill said.
With a grant and a group of volunteers, the Men’s Shed was built and over time more equipment was added.
Most Wednesdays and Thursdays you can find Bill and his mates down at the Shed at the footy grounds.
Bill says it’s all about fellowship, about mateship and getting together woodworking, tending the vegetable garden and just talking.
Footy, cricket and golf are hot topics along with fishing and travel, but it’s also a chance to share about growing older, health challenges and “the things we used to be able to do”.
“We can relate our experiences when we talk about different things,” said Bill.
“We’re getting older and it’s good being able to talk about it with others who are the same.
“One of the blokes was in hospital a few weeks ago so we got together to think about what we could do to help his wife out.
“We have 5-minute chats where we talk about what we’ve done and experienced in our lives.
“It’s interesting to hear what the other blokes have done … mateship is at the heart of it, fellowship is the most important thing.”
If you would like to find out more about the Wahgunyah Men’s Shed, call Bill on 0419101632 or head down from 9am until lunchtime on Wednesday or Thursdays.
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