Search for the men’s shed site

Despite a cancelled meeting last month Southbank’s men’s shed is again on the agenda, after local resident Peter Harkin researched and put forward possible sites for the shed.

His major discovery was a distinct lack of suitable sites in Southbank specifically, so Mr Harkin has suggested the possibility of a South Melbourne site, and a joint approach between the City of Melbourne and the Port Phillip Council.

Mr Harkin said there was simply a lack of vacant sites of an appropriate size in Southbank for a project such as the shed.

“I’ve walked around the area and it is very hard to find any suitable space within the boundaries of Southbank, but if you look to the other side of Kings Way, as I have, there are a number of potential sites,” Mr Harkin said.

He also pointed out the positives of a joint venture, saying: “If we look at a joint venture between the City of Melbourne and the Port Phillip Council, it will increase our chances of funding and spread the facilities with a wider range of people.”

One major challenge the shed faces is funding and costs, and Mr Harkin suggested the councils may have to think outside the square to be able to pay for this type of facility.

“It appears as though wherever we find as a location is going to be expensive. I’d like to think the council would get other groups involved and create a multi-purpose area, which would justify the cost,” Mr Harkin said.

A general information meeting, including guest speakers and representatives from other similar sheds around Melbourne is being planned and will be held at the Boyd school after the current redevelopment is complete.