History of the Men’s Shed
The concept of a Men’s Shed in Thirroul was first mooted by a couple of Lions from the Austinmer/Thirroul Lions Club in 2007/8. The idea became a reality in September 2010 when a few blokes met at the Thirroul Bowling Leagues and Recreation Club to hold a Formation Meeting.
Incorporation was sought as a Not for profit Association and this was granted by the NSW State Government in November 2010.
Thirroul Men’s Shed has been a member of the Australian Men’s Shed Association (AMSA) since formation.
Initial meetings were held at the Club and the Men’s Shed purchased a small Garden Shed to store some tools and a work bench. A member provided a portable wood lathe for demonstration purposes and so the Thirroul Men’s Shed became operational.
This set up was obviously short term while more permanent and larger facilities were explored. Membership was growing and in March 2011 the use of a large garage in the residential area of Redman Avenue was secured on a rental basis from the owner.
This held us in good stead until 2016 when, after many years of negotiations, meetings and correspondence with Wollongong City Council and the NSW State Government, Thirroul Men’s Shed was able to secure, under lease, a vacated Workshop at the former Thirroul Railway Depot.