Members of Wyong Family History Group and Manno Mens Shed at Mannering Park found a way to keep community spirit alive during Covid-related restrictions over the past two years.
History Group publicity officer, Lynda Smith, said it was refreshing to find a group such as Manno Mens Shed to freely help another group in their time of need.
“Our group updated from a paper-based sign in procedure to an electronic record of attendance at our meeting rooms in case the health authorities or our members needed to be informed of a Covid incident,” she said.
“We needed a secure cabinet to house our entry computer, and that’s when Manno Mens Shed came to the rescue.
“Rod Cameron came to our cottage, took the measurements, designed an amazing cabinet and with the help of other Shed members it was built out of donated and recycled materials, all supplied for free.
“Rod and his mates also made some display stands for our walls so that our history group members and visitors could easily locate brochures and other handouts,” Lynda said.
Manno Mens Shed members pride themselves on their ability to reuse, repurpose and recycle timber and other materials.
“Instead of unwanted furniture ending up on the kerbside or in our waste facilities, our members transform such items into all manner of functional or decorative pieces,” said President Joe Lavin.
“On any given day, members will be working on their own projects, something to give away or something to help another community group.”
Mannering Park Mens Shed built their own facility in Warwick Ave about six years ago, from grant money and funds raised by the group.
After a number of foiled attempts, it was possible recently for Vice-President of Wyong Family History Group Roger Lewis, to present members of Manno Mens Shed with a Certificate of Appreciation.
The Wyong Family History Group cottage is open for members and non-members every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10am to 3pm, at Building 9, in the grounds of the old Wyong Primary School at 6 Rankens Ct, Wyong.
More information is available on their website http://www.wyongfamilyhistory.com.au/ or facebook page or phone 4351 2211.
Manno Mens Shed can be contact by phoning 0414 972 852 or email mannomensshed@gmail.com . They also host a Facebook page and a website. https://www.manneringpark.nsw.au/site-directory/community-groups/manno-mens-shed/
Source:
Media release, August 30
Wyong Family History Group