ShedMates

ShedMates

Men’s Sheds were established initially with a clear purpose of providing space for men to meet in a friendly environment where health issues could be discussed without fear or prejudice, including mental health issues.

Support is available to members suffering issues relating to bereavement, divorce, illness, unemployment, retirement and a host of other matters, delivered through peer to peer discussions, guest speakers and organised forums.

Men’s sheds offer the opportunity to chat amongst friends over a cuppa about issues that are of concern and share a few moments of mutual benefit.

A men’s shed is intended to be a place of acceptance, mate-ship and activity for all men, enriching the lives and enhancing the wellbeing and health of local men.

We can provide a safe, welcoming and encouraging space for men to work on their projects, learn new skills and develop valuable friendships.

However some of our members or their family, are occasionally suffering and we do not know about it.

As part of the focus on men’s health and well-being, our shed is appointing a welfare/wellbeing team from its members. The role of mate-ship team members will be to talk with members, assist them if they have a problem or issue, make suggestions and point them in the right direction when needed.

Consequently all members are invited to let me know if they are ill or have any issue that we need to know about or with which we can help.

This service is confidential.

Shedmates is lead by Joe Newbold

Born in Fremantle, Joe went to school in Geraldton before joining the Navy as a Junior Recruit in 1965, and subsequently trained as a Naval medic and diver. On discharge, Joe first studied architectural drafting and then operated his own medical supply business for several years. He then entered the Anglican Church training program, studying at Perth College of Divinity, Murdoch, graduating with BTheol(Hons) in 1989.

Ordained in 1990, and after an Assistant Curacy in Fremantle, Joe served in the parishes of Lynwood, Armadale, and Mount Pleasant. For 10 years Joe sat on the Board of Anglicare, and for more than 12 years on the Diocesan Architectural Advisory Committee, retiring as Chair in 2012.

He was appointed WA Police Chaplain in 2012 and retired in July 2019. Much of his time as Police Chaplain was concerned with the welfare of both Police Officers and members of the public affected by crime and disaster.