- The State Government's Gaming Community Trust will provide $227, 273 to the Wanneroo Community Men's Shed for a new facility on Leach Road, Wanneroo
- Shed provides an environment where men can find volunteering opportunities, mutual support and social interaction
The Wanneroo Community Men's Shed (WCMS) is a step closer to a brand new facility in the heart of Wanneroo thanks to the State Government's Gaming Community Trust.
Racing and Gaming Minister Brendon Grylls today announced the Trust, which derives funds from unclaimed gaming winnings in Western Australia, would contribute $227, 273 for the construction of a new WCMS premises on Leach Road, Wanneroo.
Lotterywest funding of $400,000 has already been secured.
Mr Grylls said the Trust funds would help build a fit-for-purpose Men's Shed, as the current Wanneroo facility was not big enough to accommodate new members or the refurbishment of used computers - a community service unique to the WCMS.
"Wanneroo is the only Men's Shed in Australia which refurbishes and recycles used personal computers. The refurbished computers are then provided to disadvantaged members of the community or charitable organisations," he said.
"In the past six years, the WCMS have refurbished more than 2,000 computers while providing computer training for more than 400 - mainly elderly - members of the community."
The Minister said the limited storage and workspace at WCMS' current premises meant it was difficult to maintain a safe working environment.
"It has also restricted the number of members joining the Wanneroo Community Men's Shed and people attending the computer classes, as there is insufficient room," Mr Grylls said.
"A new facility will provide a great community asset for years to come and allow the men at WCMS to continue their special work."
The proposed new Wanneroo Community Men's Shed facility will be three times bigger than the combined workshops currently used by the group. The City of Wanneroo has offered the WCMS a 15-year lease for the land on Leach Road.
Fact File
- The Gaming Community Trust was established in 2002 to provide advice and make recommendations to the Minister for Racing and Gaming on the distribution of funds and grants for the general benefit of the community
Minister's office - 6552 6100
