General News
28 July, 2025
Projects started at the Shed Project
The doors have swung open on the Anglican Shed Project and participants have picked up their tools to begin the first of many projects to be carried out at the facility.
A celebration was held on Monday, April 28, with the cutting of the ribbon and, of course, as all awesome celebrations need, a "big chocolate cake".
The new purpose-built facility is located on the grounds of the Anglican Church in Warracknabeal.
Reverend James Wood said facilitators and participants have been able to settle into the shed, as the project had been previously facilitated out of his garage.
This had been the case for the last seven years.
Rev James said it's the participants who make the program a success.
“They have been the main reason why the community has been so faithful to us with their support over the last five years of fundraising, designing and building," he said.
"Without our local community and the many, many people who have been so generous in finances, moral support and also their patience I may add, it would have been impossible to achieve.”
Parish Warden and Co-cordinator of the Shed Project, Brian Clarke said the group is grateful to Maurie Parsons and other local tradespeople whose commitment and professionalism have been unwavering throughout the project.
“It was so good to see the lads enter the building and start taking ownership of what has become an important space in their overall wellbeing and development as young people," Mr Clarke said.
The Shed Project has evolved as a significant place of meaning for many participants.
As a member said: “It is a fun place where everyone is included and no one gets bullied or called names.”
Mentors are also an important aspect of The Shed Project.
“It can be just as meaningful for those assisting as participants themselves,” commented Rev James.
“We have a strong emphasis on developing resilience and problem solving in The Shed Project and while focus is on making something beautiful and to the best of your ability - perfection is not the goal, but rather growth in confidence in construction and the ability to use tools well and what they are made for.”
Community members interested in contributing to the growth and well-being of youngsters in the region are encouraged to contact Rev. James about The Shed Project.
“It is not a religious project," explained Rev James.
“You don’t need to have woodworking skills - patience is a good thing to have, but more importantly, helping young people solve problems and difficulties with their project without ‘doing it for them’ is what is most required.
"Humour also helps!”