Giant new shed for men at work

Jurien Bay Men’s Shed has appointed a contractor to build its new $380,000 building in Jurien Bay.

Men’s Shed president Bob Hendry said they had hired Jurien Bay Building after a bidding process and grants from Lotterywest, the WA Gaming Community Trust and the Dandaragan Shire.

“We are really happy to engage a local builder,” Mr Hendry said.

“The Men’s Shed gets enormous support from local businesses and the local community, so it’s important that we recognise that support and reciprocate wherever possible.

Leon Murdoch owns Jurien Bay Building and builds under the Ranbuild Sheds brand name.

Three others were invited to quote for the project, from Jurien Bay, Moora and Perth. Mr Hendry said the two local quotes were the best, with very little separating them.

“The decision to select Jurien Bay Building was not easy, as both local quotes were within our budget, fully met our specifications and needs, and both are reputable local shed builders,” he said.

“Both Leon and Mark Bellemore at Swan Aussie Sheds have been incredibly patient, helpful and co-operative throughout the long-winded process of seeking quotes, estimating costs and securing the required funding.”

Mr Hendry said major work was not expected to start until the new year, and Shire approvals were yet to be granted.

“We have been able to do some preliminary earthworks and fencing, however there is a while to go before a concrete slab goes down,” he said.

“The project is likely to take at least four to five months, including internal fit-out.

“It is fair to say the men are getting excited.”

The new Men’s Shed will cover 500sqm, with an additional 135sqm internal mezzanine floor space, three-phase off-grid solar and battery power, and rainwater tanks.

It was partly funded by $76,000 saved up from members’ community projects, Shire contracts and equipment hire.