The Mooroolbark Men’s Shed has embarked on a new venture, opening a store in the centre of town to sell the beautifully handcrafted items made by members.
Officially opening on Tuesday 2 December, Shop 2 at The Terrace Shopping Centre is now a second home for the Men’s Shed.
President Peter Gray said the Shed has been “extremely lucky to secure a shop” in such a prominent location, at the entrance to the Terrace and it has been welcome news.
“After a turbulent year, where we unfortunately lost one of our valuable members and had to forego most of our Saturday morning barbecues at Coles in Mooroolbark, we have emerged stronger,” he said.
“This is an exciting event, and we are pleased to offer the members an opportunity to participate in this new venture and to provide you, the public, a chance to support us in our efforts to provide a valued and meaningful work environment for men whilst supporting needy charities.”
Although a bit light on for the first day, Mr Gray said “everyone is still getting to know where we are located” but encouraged the community to pop down, say hi and perhaps pick up a Christmas gift.
The store will be open every Tuesday and Thursday from 9am to 2pm. The Shed also hopes, once permission has been granted, to open the first and third Saturday of the month from 9am to 1pm to host a sausage sizzle. Public holidays will be excepted.
While the loss of the bi-monthly barbecue outside Coles in August, the Shed has been looking for ways to continue fundraising, recently hosting market days at the Croydondale Drive shed.
Mr Gray said they have also had stalls at the Kilsyth Festival, the Cire Community Twilight Market and St Margaret’s fete, as well as an ongoing partnership with the Mooroolbark Miniature Railway to hold a market on the fourth Sunday of every month.
“On (another) positive note, we have had the good fortune to receive a gift of some air conditioners for the shed and grants from the local Bendigo Bank, Bunnings and the local council.
“All of which have provided some equipment updates and improvements to the shed. We have also gained four new members to bring our active membership up to 40. This has allowed us to continue our work of supporting a number of local charities.”
While essential to keeping the Men’s Shed going, the market days, stalls, and community events do take time and effort from the members, but continued community support makes it worthwhile.
“All of these ventures require considerable effort on the part of our members. We appreciate the support we get from them and the public; it not only makes us stronger but gives our shed and the wider area of Mooroolbark a sense of purpose and kinship, connecting us and the community,” Mr Gray said.
“Finally, on behalf of the Mooroolbark Men’s Shed, we wish all our members and the wider local community a Happy New Year. May 2026 be a healthy and happy one, where we can all enjoy the fruits of our labours.”
