Funding shortage threatens Ballarat East Men's Shed

WITH no government funding, the Ballarat East Community Men's Shed must raise $60,000 to buy its current premises or risk closure.The shortfall must be found by July 1 if BECS wishes to stay at the Eureka St premises.The board had been working to secure funding from either state or federal governments, but so far without success, said BECS vice-president Doug Jenkins."The Ballarat City Council has been very supportive financially but future funds from them will come too late to complete the purchase of the property," Mr Jenkins said. "It's not a hand-out we're after. It's an investment that will save the health system in the future and save lives." Ballarat East MLA Geoff Howard said he contacted the state Department of Planning and Community Development, on behalf of BECS, but the department does not provide funding to purchase properties. BECS members also met with Prime Minister Kevin Rudd in Ballarat in February. Mr Jenkins believes the shed does vital work."The majority of our attendees have issues in life such as depression, medical conditions, are widowed or are full-time carers for sick spouses, and the shed is their day out," he said. "We believe this is the biggest men's shed in Australia and it would just be such a pity if we were forced to close or move from these premises, which are just ideal." BECS is keen to hear from anybody who would like to help its cause with a financial gift, fully tax deductible. Contact BECS at becs@shed.org.au or Doug Jenkins on 5332 3309.