South Brisbane Men’s Shed – connecting men who support children with autism

Being an autism parent is the single most difficult and yet rewarding thing I’ve ever experienced – Rob Gorski, Huffington Post.

Recognising the unique stories shared by men who support people with autism, South Brisbane Men’s Shed has a special interest group for fathers, adult brothers, uncles, grandfathers and male carers with a family member with autism.

 “We are foremost here to provide health and wellbeing support,” shed president David Spillane explains.

“There is no pressure to talk, but we are here to listen. And those who come along can choose to get involved in a wide array of activities,” he says.

“Men can participate in traditional projects including woodwork, metalwork and manual crafts, or take part in art, music, yoga, walking, travel and wellbeing programs.

“We even have a big-screen for watching the footy, and a pool table. “There really is something for everyone,” he adds.

Located on the Department of Education’s Autism Hub and Reading Centre site in Woolloongabba, the South Brisbane Men’s Shed was launched in April this year. Membership is steadily increasing, with activities held every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.   

Autism Hub Manager, Jandee Laidlaw says the shed is proving very successful.

 “With the sheds otherwise unused, this was an ideal opportunity for the Autism Hub to work with fathers and the Queensland Men’s Shed Association to create something unique. “We were aware that dads often don’t engage in the same and typical ways that mum’s do, a shed however, could provide a safe and supported space for dads to share similar life stories about parenting a child with autism. We are proud to work with the South Brisbane Men’s Shed to provide this opportunity.”

The South Brisbane Men’s Shed special interest group for men who are connected to a child with autism meets every Friday at 6.00pm at 141 Merton Road, Woolloongabba. Parking is available on site and public transport is close by.

For further information, phone David Spillane on 0401 277 810, or email secretary@southbrisbanemensshed.org.au. You can also visit the website at http://southbrisbanemensshed.org.au/ or contact the Autism Hub on 3328 6950.