In the week where women are celebrated via International Women’s Day on March 8, the Coolum Women’s Shed launched the inaugural National Women’s Shed Week between March 6-12 in an effort to showcase that sheds are not just for the men in the community.
Coolum Women’s Shed President Nell Harvey said that she is proud to be bringing Australian Women’s Sheds closer together through the establishment of the annual event.
“Women’s Sheds are all about improving the health and wellbeing of members through building connections, reducing isolation and encouraging the development of new skills,” Ms Harvey said.
“Our members understand the value of being involved with the women’s shed first hand and so we want to support other women in Australia to do the same.”
“We are now speaking with over 30 sheds across Australia who have registered their sheds with us, many of which will be running their own events and programs throughout women’s shed week.”
Federal Member for Fairfax, Ted O’Brien recently announced the inaugural Women’s
Shed Week in the Australian Parliament on behalf of the Coolum Women’s Shed.
Mr O’Brien was also responsible for major tax reform that has enabled tax deductibility for all men’s and women’s sheds across the country and has recently announced $11,350 of Federal Grants for the Coolum Women’s Shed.
“I’m a massive advocate for men’s and women’s sheds across Australia because I have seen the positive impact these organisations have on people’s mental and physical wellbeing,” Mr O’Brien said.
“Now, thanks to the members of the Coolum Women’s Shed, it’s the Women’s Sheds that are on the national agenda this week and I congratulate the Coolum Women’s Shed for their leadership in supporting the development of women’s sheds across the country.”
“It’s no coincidence that the inaugural National Women’s Shed Week coincides with International Women’s Day and Queensland Women’s Week, with the shared aim of progressing the importance of equality for women.”
The Coolum Women’s Shed will be hosting an open day this Saturday, March 12 between 10am and 3pm and they would like to see as many faces as possible at the shed on the day and many new members sign up for one or more of their classes or workshops.
The Coolum Women’s Shed is located at 26 Research St in the Quanda Estate precinct and more information about the shed and the open day can be found via –www.thewomensshed.org/