SURPRISE  -  SURPRISE

On Tuesday 7^th October 2 of our members were invited to a Rotary Award evening in the Tasman Room at Mingara.

Fred Murray & John Walker were asked separately, by Alex Lee, to come & support  the other while representing our Shed. Neither Fred nor John knew they were to receive an award on the night. Fred thought he was there for John & visa versa.

Both Wyong & the Entrance Rotary were represented by their respective Presidents & assisted by other committee members.

Karen McNamara M.P. Member for Dobell was also in attendance.  

After a few preliminary short speeches a nice baked dinner was served followed by desert, fruit, cheese tea & coffee. Not many backed up for seconds.  

Then it was award time & Karen was asked to read a short citation for each of the 6 recipients & present their awards. 

The surprise was apparent on both our members’ faces when their names were read out. 

John received an award for his previous dedication to organising the toolbox talk agenda for our Sheds & lately his valuable work organising the ongoing problems carers are exposed to over a long period of time. He responded by detailing his passion for what he is doing & the benefits to carers. 

Before reading Fred’s citation Karen mentioned the time she attended a SUPER BBQ (her words not mine) at Bateau Bay Shed earlier this year & how well she was received & respected.

Fred’s award was basically recognition for his Community service with the Shed as well as other areas of volunteering he does away from the Shed. Fred responded with a few short but effective words about how Men’s Sheds are impacting on member’s lives & outlook in retirement etc. He also mentioned to Karen how the concept has exploded in Australia from 300 Sheds some years ago to over 1000 today. He emphasised how critical Government funding was to this worthy cause. 

Congratulations to all who received recognition 

 especially our Shed members.