Over one hundred men from Men's Sheds across the country gathered at Clodagh House in Portlaw yesterday afternoon for their annual gathering.
The Irish Men’s Sheds Association was formed in 2011. However, the men’s shed movement originally started in Australia which inspired their Irish counterparts to begin their own movement.
The Shed's aim is to create a space for men to share ideas and support well-being.
The event showcased several activities in association with Waterford Area Partnership including skill sharing, plaster molding, horticulture workshops, lawn bowls as well as a BBQ.
Speaking to WLR News at the event, organiser Stephen Whelan said the setting of the event made all the difference.
"My role here is to support sheds in the city and county. Last year we had an exhibition at SETU arena with a range of activities, but this year we said we would move it outdoors to the beautiful setting of Clodagh House here in Portlaw".
Stephen Whelan speaking to WLR's Kyle Butler
Healthy eating was also promoted at the event. Local sustainable grower Coleman Power was present, encouraging members to eat healthy.
"I was contacted by the likes of Stephen and Piper who are connected with the Waterford Area Partnership and I was delighted to do it. This is my second year involved with them. Last year we held an event in SETU so it's great to be back.
"Both places have super facilities and as you can see here it's immaculate but it's also important that people utilise growing their own food.
"It's not just a one-day thing, it has to be a lifestyle of growing your own food."
Coleman Power speaking to WLR's Kyle Butler
Michael Delaney is a member of Tallow Men's Shed, where they recently constructed new polytunnels to grow vegetables.
"It's great to see all of the Waterford Men's Sheds getting together and sharing ideas. We have a new polytunnel and Coleman is going to visit us and do a course for a few weeks.
"It's so peaceful there and listening to the birds singing just makes my day."
Michael Delaney speaking to WLR's Kyle Butler
Ben Dolan, Communications Officer with the Irish Mens Shed added, "We call it a third space. It's not home, it's not work, it's another place that they can go to. It's that thing of having a space that people can go to and chat with the other men involved in the Shed.
"Now at the moment, we are working on creating this network where sheds can connect among themselves and help each other out with projects, materials, and skills. This allows members of the sheds to share knowledge and bring about togetherness within the community."
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