June 7, 2023
Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington joined other community leaders for the official opening of a Men’s Shed at Kilkivan last Thursday.
The “Kilkivan Veterans and Community Men’s Shed” was officially opened by Queensland Men’s Shed patron Prof Graeme Nimmo, husband of State Governor Dr Jeannette Young.
Also present were Gympie Mayor Glen Hartwig and Deputy Mayor Hilary Smerdon.
“A special shoutout to founders Dave and Bella Timperley and their team of volunteers, whose many years of determination and persistence helped bring this project to fruition,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“While they faced many hurdles, they never gave up, resulting in a fantastic community shed for Kilkivan.”
Mrs Frecklington said the Kilkivan Shed was unique as there were women among its 27 members.
“They are also a part of the Defence and Emergency Sheds Association, providing services for ex-servicemen and women in our community,” she said.
“I am a strong supporter of the Men’s Shed initiative and the benefits they provide, especially in smaller regional townships like Kilkivan.
“In fact, 2023 marks the 30th anniversary of Men’s Sheds in Australia.
“Since the first community shed for men opened its doors in South Australia in 1993, the Men’s Shed community has grown to encompass more 1297 Men’s Sheds across Australia and a total of 2500 sheds across 12 countries.”
