Shed Gets Windfall

LEE Watts from the Scone Neighbourhood Resource Centre said they are excited to learn they will be receiving $47,000 from the federal government to continue the Virtual Shed program for another six months.

Barnaby Joyce pictured with Jim Alcher, Manager Scone Neighbourhood Resource Centre Lee Watts, Colin Watts and Graham Brooker at Scone Neighbourhood Centre.

“It has been very popular with men in our community and it is great that the government has recognised that by continuing to fund it for another six month,” said Ms Watts.

“The men have told me how much they get out of these social activities and are already lined up for the next tour,” she said.

Barnaby Joyce, deputy prime minister and member for New England said he was pleased to be able to deliver the good news.

“The Virtual Shed Project engages rural men through workshops in the Upper Hunter region and facilitates discussion on topics such as dealing with family breakdowns, parenting, adverse circumstances and natural disaster,” Mr Joyce said.

“The project also provides opportunities for men to establish and maintain support networks, as well as a referral service to a range of agencies,” he said.

“Feedback from the operators of the project indicates that it is meeting its objectives by providing a haven for men facing difficult circumstances and offering workable solutions,” Barnaby Joyce said.