History of the Shed
Origins of the Falcon Menshed
The Falcon Menshed originated around the turn of the millennium in a storeroom at the back of the Falcon Family Centre. John Olson began a do-it-yourself group for men and women, often working outside due to limited space with participants bringing their own tools to work on various projects.
Initial Expansion and Setbacks
In 2004, the group received funding from Lotterywest, enabling them to build a 9x6 shed and purchase additional machinery. Unfortunately, after John Olson passed away in 2005, the shed and its community of DIY workers drifted apart.
Revival and Establishment of Men's Shed
The shed remained idle until 2007 when Patrick Fox, a skilled builder, called for a Men’s Shed to serve the residents of the new Waratah Retirement Village and other local men in search of a shared hobby.
The shed opened with about eight men and a plan to establish a group to cater for men’s health. They made workbenches from packing crates and constructed tool boxes for newly acquired hand tools, and under Patrick’s expert guidance, they formed a group with basic rules and procedures.
Independence and Continued Growth
By 2012, Patrick's employment demands drew him away from the group, but the men were well-equipped to carry on independently. In 2014, Waratah Church successfully secured a Lotterywest grant on our behalf to upgrade equipment. This led to concerns about legal liability and insurance coverage, prompting us to become an incorporated body in 2015, largely due to Max Fitton's efforts. We adopted a constitution and a formal corporate structure, establishing Falcon Menshed Inc. with John Ellery as the inaugural president.
Space Issues and Potential Solutions
The issue of space has not yet been resolved, and we are currently in the process of planning either an extension or rebuilding on a suitable site. Enquiries with the City of Mandurah have revealed no suitable sites in the Falcon area, prompting us to explore the possibility of building on the Port Bouvard Recreation Club land.
The change in management arrangements for the Falcon Family Centre has given us hope that we may be able to expand our current site. Consequently, a business plan has been developed to account for these two possibilities.
Current Status of the Shed
Today, we are a thriving Men's Shed associated with “Men's Sheds of WA”, meeting four days a week with a membership of 50-plus individuals and a clearly defined organisation.
We focus on addressing and supporting the health needs of men in the Falcon area.
The name "Falcon Menshed" was chosen when Don Smith, an illustrator who had terminal cancer, created a plaque with this spelling; thus, in honour of Don, our title came to be.
Our Mission and Vision
Our Mission
To create a safe and friendly workshop environment where members are able to pursue their hobbies, craft and projects that promote men’s wellbeing in social and mental health.
Our Vision
That all men in the region have the opportunity to join our men’s shed that enriches their lives and sense of community.