Mr REPACHOLI (Hunter) (9:56):

I want to take a moment to reflect on some fantastic visits I've recently had across the Hunter electorate at local men's sheds. These spaces do far more than just offer a place to tinker with tools; they are, in every sense, lifelines for connections, conversations and community. At the Singleton Men's Shed I was blown away by the range of activities happening under one roof, from woodworking and gardening to metalwork, art-painting, small motor repairs, and even catering most of the local men's sheds events with their food and barbecue trailer. It's a hive of creativity, skill and social connection. It's clear that it isn't just about keeping busy; it's about staying connected and healthy and looking after one another.

I also had the chance to go to the Toronto Men's Shed alongside the Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles, and legendary singer John Paul Young. It was a great morning, with three blokes from very different walks of life brought together to support the same important message: that men's health and wellbeing matters. The shed is doing great and is in great hands, with woodwork, metalwork, welding and repair of motors, mowers and line-trimmers.

I was recently lucky enough to go to the Wangi Men's Shed. Yet again I saw some stories unfold: mateship, mental wellbeing and about 25 different bloody magpies. It was huge! Just last week I was lucky enough to go to the Christmas-in-July event at the Cessnock Men's Shed, and may I say that spit roast was absolutely delicious and I'm looking forward to going again. You guys do a great job out there, so keep up the good work.
The smiles, the stories and the sense of purpose you see in every corner of these places are something truly special. But it's not just about what is happening locally. Nationally, our government understands the value of men's sheds; that's why we've continued to back them with real funding. We recently announced a commitment of $8.3 million to extend the Men's Shed Initiative to support the Australian Men's Shed Association. Grants of up to $10,000 per shed will provide better facilities, new equipment and good healthy education programs. We know that men's sheds play a crucial role in addressing social isolation, mental health challenges and the need for safe, welcoming places where men can talk, share and support one another. We're backing that work in not just with words but also with real ground support.

I'm looking forward to getting out there to the rest of the men's sheds across the Hunter electorates in the coming months, because every visit, every conversation, every cuppa reminds me just how important they are and how much these places mean to men and the communities they serve. To all the volunteers and members that keep our sheds running: thank you for building a healthier and better community. If you're a bloke who's looking for something to do during the week, to get out there and have a conversation with a few blokes, get to your local men's sheds. They're fantastic organisations and a fantastic bunch of blokes that do great work for our communities. They're always there to have a listen.