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Denmark Men’s Shed finally get the keys to their new home after years of toil

Campbell WilliamsonAlbany Advertiser
Denmark Men’s Shed president John O'Donnell with managing director of MCB, Michael Stephen.
Camera IconDenmark Men’s Shed president John O'Donnell with managing director of MCB, Michael Stephen.

The members of Denmark Men’s Shed have finally received the keys to their new home.

There were smiles all around at a key handover ceremony held last Thursday, with some members giving each other high-gives as proceedings began.

It was no wonder why — it is no ordinary men’s shed.

The 7200sqm space boasts a purpose-built workshop, kitchens, functions area and office spaces.

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DMS president John O’Donnell praised the work of Michael Stephen and his team at MCB Construction team for completing the build within a year.

The project was not without its challenges.

After the group’s formation in late 2015, it was forced to move between locations.

They initially used a small shed provided by a retired carpenter before moving to the Lions Den and the youth centre.

The moves made it difficult to expand the group’s membership.

“I think that seeing the guys from the start, how much they put into the early years and the struggle back there — it’s good to see it in place,” Mr O’Donnell said.

“The dream was OK, everyone knew what they wanted but to get to this there were a few jumps over hurdles.

“I think considering everything we've been able to achieve, it’s probably in front of what my expectations were but it could have gone a lot easier.”

DMS workshop supervisor Peter Moyle said he was “over the moon”. “It's been a long time coming, a long time coming,” he said.

While the new premises were built, the DMS’ membership ballooned from 25 to 50. The new shed should also help build the skills and cohesion of the growing group as they prepare the new building for its official opening in six months.

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