About Us

Supporting Men Within the Community

Who We Are​

At the Blue Gum Hills Men’s Shed, we’re a community-based, non-commercial organization where men safely gather to socialize, work on meaningful projects, and hopefully improve their health by keeping physically active and mentally strong.
Located in Wallsend (Newcastle, NSW), our Shed brings together men from all walks of life to build friendships, exchange information and stories, and to help make a positive impact on the local community.

Whether you’re a skilled tradesman or simply interested in lending a hand, there’s a place for you here. We work on a range of projects that benefit both our members and the local area, and we welcome volunteers of all abilities. No experience required – just a willingness to get involved and enjoy some camaraderie.

Catagories of Men that Attend Our Shed
1) Retired Pensioners – Men over 67 years old
2) Self Funded Retirees – Men over 60 to 67 years old
3) Volunteer Workers under Centrelink – Men from 60 to 67 (15 hours per week)
4) Centrelink Allowed Volunteers – Men in their 50’s (generally)
5) Work For Dole (Centrelink/Work Provider) – Men from 18 to 40’s
6) NDIS Attendees with Carers – Assessed as need/ability & available supervision

Previous Sponsors

Mulligan Property

Cotton’s Glass & Aluminium

Farnhams Butchery

Daracon Group

Local Hearing Aid Specialist

Sponsor
Sponsor
Sponsor
Sponsor
Sponsor

Our Mission Statement:

Building Fellowship

Foster a welcoming environment where men can enjoy genuine companionship, share stories, and build lasting friendships. Our shed provides a comfortable space for casual conversation, shared meals, and group activities that strengthen bonds between members.

Cross-Generational Connection

Create meaningful connections by bringing together men of diverse ages, backgrounds, and life experiences through authentic mateship. We value each member’s unique perspectives and actively encourage mentoring relationships that benefit both younger and older participants.

Safe Workshop Environment

Provide a fully equipped workshop where members can work on personal and community projects under proper supervision. Our comprehensive safety protocols, tool maintenance, and safety checks ensure everyone can participate with confidence.

Skills Development

Allow unskilled members to learn from skilled senior members (if available). Through peer-to-peer teaching and guided instruction, to help older men acquire new capabilities in woodworking, metalwork, gardening, and other practical trades.

Mental Health Support

Combat social isolation, loneliness, and depression that often accompany retirement or unemployment by creating a supportive environment. Our shed can offer purpose, structure, and meaningful connections, alongside practical resources to help members (if members require help)

Retirement Engagement

Create a space where retired and unemployed men can maintain social connections while sharing their valuable expertise through community projects. Our OH&S-compliant environment enables safe and productive collaboration between members.

Community Assistance

Provide practical help to our local community through repair and maintenance services for non-profits, seniors, and disabled residents. Our members apply their skills to support those in need, from basic home repairs to larger community improvement projects.

Positive Culture

Foster a culture of mutual support and optimistic engagement by encouraging all members to contribute to our shared goals. We celebrate successes, recognize contributions, and maintain an outlook that inspires others to join our mission.

John Devlin

President

Graeme Berry

Vice President

Phillip Murnain

Treasurer

Roy Powell

Secretary

Members Representatives: Anthony McDermott, Stephen Devon, Ken Blanch

When We Work

Open Workshop Site Hours:
Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday
7:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Join us for morning tea at 9:00 AM to meet our members and learn more about what we do.

Women’s Auxiliary Meets
Thursdays at 10:00 AM
Supporting our mission through fundraising and community outreach

Join The Shed

We welcome new members who want to:

  • Share their handyman and trade skills
  • Willing to contibute & assist
  • Connect with others
  • Give back to the community

Annual membership is just $25

Support Our Work

As a registered charity, we gratefully accept:

  • Financial donations in both funds, goods & services
  • Tools and equipment
  • Wood and materials
  • Volunteer time and expertise

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