Shed steps up for speakers

Secretary Margaret Cockman said Wanneroo councillor Dot Newton approached the Wanneroo Men’s Shed on the society’s behalf and they agreed to make a lectern.

‘The lectern was a great asset and would be used by guest speakers who came along to the monthly meetings and shared their experiences with us,’ Ms Cockman said.

‘Juggling their paper notes on their talk was always a little difficult and the acquisition of the lectern would make their presentation much easier.’

Men’s Shed members Bill Palmer and Vern Mortensen said they established the carpentry section of the men’s shed about two years ago, giving men living in the area opportunities to engage in wood-working activities.

‘The Wanneroo council and Heritage Council gave us the use of half of the old school room situated behind Buckingham House,’ Mr Palmer said.

‘We didn’t take long to realise that we needed a much greater area to work in and have been searching for a larger premises ever since.’

Mr Palmer said another inaugural member, Derek Jackson, designed the lectern, which they built from recycled materials.

‘We have been asked to make a variety of items for the community, including storage bins, tables and chairs for a local day care centre (and) helped a group from Banksia Grove to build a billy cart,’ he said.

‘Some of the men have also made toy tables, toy trucks and trains, of which we were able to sell some at the open day at Buckingham House site. These items are also made out of recycled materials.’

Ms Cockman said the Wanneroo Senior Citizens Group would also use the lectern.

The historical society meets monthly on the second Thursday; anyone interested in learning more can call Margaret on 9405 1256.

For more information about the Wanneroo Men’s Shed’s carpentry section, call Mr Palmer on 0403 861 842.