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The Peak Hill Mens Shed is one of 31 Mens Sheds across Australia to receive special funding. The Minister with responsibility for Male Health, Warren Snowdon, said the Men’s Sheds will be helped to fit out their buildings, purchase tools or supplies and to run programs to spread health messages. Peak Hill will receive $1,000 for the purchase of an air filtration system, fileters, sanders and other tools. Mr Snowdon said the Australian Government is committed to improving the health of Australian males by finding ways to make the health system more responsive to the specific and unique needs of males. “Sheds are playing a key role in strengthening communities and in promoting the physical and mental health of males. “We have committed $3 million of our $16.7 million National Male Health Policy to the Australian Men’s Shed’s Association to help support sheds, and $250,000 each year for three years in direct financial assistance for Men’s Sheds. “Each Men’s Shed has its own character – some are traditional buildings, some are vans, some are virtual sheds - but common factors include friendliness, social inclusiveness, a safe environment and a range of activities to suit every community. Organisations in the community involved with Men’s Sheds can apply for funding to assist with establishing new sheds, to purchase tools and work equipment, to improve disability access, for insurance or connection to utilities such as power, water, telephone and the internet, and a range of shed activities and programs. There are now some 1,000 sheds of various sizes offering Australian men a place to socialise, network as well as sharing skills and information. Round 4 funding is expected to open in late March 2012. Queries on the application process can be directed to Liz MacDonald at AMSA on 0408 466 401. or via email at liz@mensshed.net

MEN’S SHED FUNDING BOOSTS SUPPORT FOR BLOKES