General News
18 July, 2026
Men’s Shed seeks support during works
ROAD works on O’Callaghans Parade are reducing passing traffic to the Horsham Men’s Shed, says one executive, affecting fundraising through firewood and handcrafted garden ornament sales. Men’s Shed secretary Adrian Gamble said the two-week road works were expected to reduce traffic, affecting an important source of fundraising for the volunteer organisation.
“Like everybody else, we have bills, so this will make a difference to our income in the next two weeks,” he said.
Mr Gamble said sales of firewood and handcrafted garden ornaments were an important source of fundraising, alongside other activities such as community sausage sizzles.
Despite the setback, Mr Gamble said the organisation was considering other ways to sell its creations.
He said selling the garden ornaments online was an option, but the organisation doesn’t have the expertise to set up an online store.
Mr Gamble said the organisation was not notified of the works, claiming it did not receive an email or any other documentation outlining the project.
“We didn’t receive an email or any paperwork letting us know the road works were happening,” Mr Gamble said.
He admitted that advance notice would have allowed the organisation to better prepare for the expected reduction in passing traffic and its impact on fundraising sales.
However, a representative from the Horsham Rural City Council said it had received no formal complaints regarding the impact of the works on local organisations or businesses.
In a statement, the council representative said businesses had maintained access and parking throughout the project, except WebbCon Marine, which had experienced some disruption.
The representative said officers were frequently engaging with affected businesses to provide updates and respond to concerns.
They also said, in relation to the Men's Shed, traffic controllers have been assisting members with access where possible.
As the roadworks continue, the Men’s Shed hopes the community will continue to visit and support the local organisation, while the council said it will continue to engage with affected businesses throughout the project.