Byron Bay Men’s Shed needs dedicated space
Byron Bay Men’s Shed Incorporated are highlighting their urgent call for support in securing land for a Men’s Shed in Byron Bay.
Secretary Bryan Frew says, ‘With 4,651 men aged between 50 and 80 in the 2481 postcode (2021 census), the need for a dedicated space to address social isolation and mental health risks has never been greater’.
Waiting for audit
‘Despite ongoing discussions with Byron Shire Council and a review of several possible sites, we remain in a holding pattern awaiting the results of the Council audit into potential community sites.
‘Given the delays, we have now formally approached the Minister for Lands and Property, Hon. Stephen Kamper MP, seeking state-level intervention.
‘This issue is not just about securing land – it’s about supporting the well-being of local men, reducing social isolation, and creating a lasting community asset that benefits Byron Bay as a whole’.
Garry Eastburn, President of Byron Bay Men’s Shed, says, ‘We understand that Crown Land allocations involve complex processes, but this is a health emergency for the men in our community’.
‘We need leadership and action – not endless delays’.
The Byron Bay Men’s Shed is calling on local residents, businesses, and community leaders to voice their support by writing to Minister Kamper ([email protected]) urging immediate action; contacting local Byron Shire Councillors to reinforce the importance of securing land; spreading the word to ensure this issue stays in the public spotlight
‘This is about saving lives,’ said Frew. ‘If we want our older men to stay engaged, active, and mentally healthy, we need to give them a place to connect and contribute.
‘We’re asking the community to stand with us and make sure we don’t lose this opportunity.’
To get involved visit https://byronbaymensshed.org.au.
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
