State Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes was in Violet Town last week to turn the first sod to start construction work on a new Mens Shed. Ms Symes joined Violet Town shedders to kickstart the works on the $78 000 project, $52 000 of which was funded the state government. Ms Symes said the new building would support the Violet Town Mens Shed to attract even more members from Strathbogie Shire. Ms Symes said the Violet Town Mens Shed group had been established for some time and was operating out of an old scout hall, which was no longer suitable because of the age of the building, termites affecting the structure and the need for more space. The Violet Town Mens Shed will be a fantastic new facility, built by the local community for the local community, Ms Symes said. The mens shed members have done outstanding work for their community and are a great example of how shedders make a difference to peoples lives. This new facility will allow for more Violet Town men to join the mens shed, learn new skills and improve their health and wellbeing. Were building more sheds across Northern Victoria, including here in Violet Town, to help more men to learn new skills, improve their health and connect with their communities. Mens sheds are safe and productive spaces for men to work on common projects, form friendships and give back to their community, with almost 1000 sheds across the country and more than 360 in Victoria. About 15 000 people attend a shed in Victoria each day. Strathbogie Shire Mayor Amanda McClaren said the council was pleased to be able to provide support for the project. Mens Sheds, particularly in small rural towns like Violet Town, are a fantastic place for men to socialise and enjoy each others company in a productive way, Cr McClaren said. We are also very pleased that we will have a group occupying and making use of the Shadforth Reserve, which is a great community asset. Anyone wanting to join the Violet Town Mens Shed can phone 0407 812 489 for more information.