AMSA Regional Conference 10th May 2023

The South East Qld. Regional Conference called by the AMSA was hosted by the Pimpama Men’s Shed and attended by some 70 shedders, including Frank, Bill, Bob and Andy from our Veterans’ Support Group Men’s Shed, Nerang. We were warmly greeted with a hot breakfast and a treated to music from the folk group “The Offcuts”.

The conference was opened with two songs from the Pimpama State School “Vi-Vo Voices Choir” and the young children were very good.

Several subjects were discussed throughout the day, and a summary is listed below.

  • SHED WELLBEING PROGRAM – HOLIDAY NOTICE BOARD; WELFARE OFFICER/TEAM; CONTACT DISENGAGED MEMBERS (INJURED/ILL); FAMILY MEMBER ILLNESS; BIRTHDAY NOTIFICATION; TRIPS OF SPECIAL INTEREST; ALLOCATE DAYS FOR “SOFT” ACTIVITIES; SPECIAL INTEREST TALKS (LEGAL WILLS , CHEMIST RE- DRUGS etc.); NEW & OLD MEMBERS TALK ABOUT THEMSELVES – LIFE HISTORY; DOWN TOOLS DAY; REGISTER OVER 65’s FOR “MY AGED CARE”.
  • SHED ACTIVITIES – XMAS PARTY; WEEKLY COOKED LUNCHES; SHED PROJECTS; INDUCTIONS FOR MACHINERY; COMPUTER GROUP.
  • FUND RAISING – BUNNINGS BBQS; FIREWOOD SALES; CONTAINERS FOR CHANGE; REPAIR/MANUFACTURE FURNITURE TO ORDER; RAFFLES; GRANTS.
  • SHED FACILITIES- WEBSITE; GARDEN; VEHICLE; LUNCHROOM; WOODWORKING; METALWORK; PAINTING.

Most sheds seemed to have the same concerns, namely – getting and keeping members, fund raising, running costs and member welfare. We were treated to morning tea and a delicious lunch provided by the local QCWA. Overall, an interesting exercise that needs to be scheduled more often.

 

A welcoming serenade by the “Off Cuts” folk group.

A welcoming hot breakfast of bacon and egg rolls.

 

The talented “Vi-Vo Voices” Pimpama State School children’s choir.

 

 

 

 

The discussion groups.

 

 

 

Our hosts Pimpama Men’s Shed.

 

 

 

Inside the Pimpama Men’s Shed.