A three-hour do-it-yourself plumbing workshop for women was held at Mingaletta in Umina Beach on Friday, May 19, co-hosted by Benchworks founder Jenn Rochford.
Participants in the workshop learnt essential jobs like how to change a tap washer and how to stop a leaking cistern.
They also learnt what questions to ask the plumber so that they know they’re getting the best bang for their buck.
“By learning to change their own tap washers the ladies can save $320,” said volunteer trainer Ian Campbell, who was accompanied by his son Shane.
Rochford started the endeavour to provide a safe place for women who have experienced domestic violence, but due to popular demand has now opened up the workshops to all women.
“Women are often lower income earners, time poor, have less access to resources, are mums and/or single mums,” she said.
“They want to feel empowered to fix things themselves around their own homes.”
Benchworks also holds other DIY workshops including indoor painting and car maintenance.
They are a safe space for women of all ages and backgrounds – a fun place to learn and explore.
Workshop participant Helen Stenbeck said she attended because she wanted to learn something out of her comfort zone.
“I also wanted to be a good role model for my daughter and show her that plumbing can be a life skill everyone can learn,” she said.
Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch congratulated Rochford and the Umina Community group for the initiative.
“It is important to open up affordable opportunities for women to learn the basic skills to maintain their own homes to increase independence and not have to rely on others for assistance, especially when budgets are tight,” Tesch said.
“I am so thrilled to see community members grab these opportunities and happy that (people) are sharing their skills whilst empowering other women.
“This is what community is all about.”
For further information on coming workshops email benchworks@uminacommunitygroup.com.au or join the Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/709400457515582.
Source:
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch