Welcome
Hello everyone, I hope this edition of the newsletter finds you well and making the most of life. Our annual membership renewal process, which commenced on 1 April, is now well underway. I’m pleased to share that we’ve reached the 50% renewal mark—an encouraging sign of the strong support within our community. For those who have not yet renewed, we encourage you to do so at your earliest convenience. Your membership is essential to keeping the Shed operating, maintaining and upgrading our equipment, and continuing to enhance our facilities for all members. In addition to membership support, our ongoing fundraising activities—including the Footy Gate, Wandi Nutfest, and Book Fair, along with grant applications—play a vital role in helping us return to full operating capacity and uphold the high standards our Shed is known for. Membership Payment Details:Please transfer your membership fee to the BUMS account:BSB: 633 000Account Number: 131069429 Please include your name as the payment reference to assist us in processing your renewal. Thank you for your continued support. Onward and upward—shoulder to shoulder.
New Inductees
I would like to take this opportunity of welcoming two new recently inducted Members to our Shed: Joel Matthews; and Peter O’Neill Men’s Sheds provide a wide range of activities centred on camaraderie and skill-sharing, including woodworking, metalworking, repairs, and community projects. Beyond the practical work, they play a vital role in supporting mental health—helping to reduce isolation, build self-esteem, and provide a renewed sense of purpose, particularly during retirement. They also encourage meaningful community participation. Just as importantly, Sheds offer both physical and mental health benefits while fostering friendships in a supportive, “shoulder-to-shoulder†environment. In simple terms, the more you put into your Shed, the more you will get out of it.
From Our Money Maestro
Treasurer Simon’s March report confirmed a stable financial position with no major variations. Key highlights: Year-to-date membership income tracking similarly to last year (~$2,300) $2,940 expended from the $10,000 Men’s Health Grant Work is ongoing behind the scenes to streamline several administrative accounts and services (including Tyro, Telstra, and compliance documentation), which will improve efficiency and reduce ongoing costs
Bums Pilates Group With Physio Julie
With the arrival of colder weather, our Friday morning outdoor walking sessions have now wrapped up and transitioned indoors. The new indoor Pilates program with Physio Julie is now underway at Ovens Valley Pilates & Physio, with strong member participation.
There are eight places available, and we’re pleased that enough members from our earlier exercise group have stepped forward to take part in this next phase. The program includes: A weekly session over six weeks Activities designed to challenge balance Building strength and supporting mobility Exploring a variety of exercise options Learning how Pilates equipment—such as the reformer, Cadillac and chair—uses springs, pulleys and sliding platforms to provide resistance, support and improved range of motion. These tools help strengthen the core, increase flexibility and promote deeper muscle engagement through low-impact movement, making the sessions suitable for all fitness levels And, importantly, enjoying the benefits of a supportive group environment
As always at BUMS, it’s about more than just exercise—it’s about connection, consistency, and looking after ourselves and each other.
Bright And Surrounds Mental Wellbeing Committee
Following Peter van Vuuren’s resignation, BUMS is seeking a new representative for the Bright & Surrounds Mental Wellbeing Committee. This is an important role that ensures the Shed remains connected to broader community wellbeing initiatives. We will be including an Expression of Interest in upcoming communications—so keep an eye out if you’d like to get involved. The objectives of the Mental Wellbeing Committee are to: Enable a coordinated, community-based approach to protect and nurture the mental wellbeing of residents in Bright and surrounding areas; Support the establishment and sustainability of wellbeing teams within community organisations and clubs; Promote consistent wellbeing messaging and strengthen a positive wellbeing culture across the community; and Maximise community resources through collaboration, shared learning, collective fundraising, and advocacy. If you’re interested, let us know.
Building Compliance Project Update
The 2026–27 Victorian Men’s Shed Funding Program is now open, offering grants of up to $100,000. Deadline: 4 June 2026 Purpose: Building upgrades, refurbishments, and major equipment We will be submitting an application again this year. Significant work is continuing behind the scenes to progress compliance requirements and position the Shed strongly for future funding.
Wandi Nut Festival Fundraiser
A huge shout-out and thank you to all the volunteers from Simon L. & Craig’s BUMS team and Jess’s AMSG group for their outstanding effort in preparing for and running the chestnut cooking at this year’s Wandi Nut Festival. Although attendance was down compared to previous years—likely due to the fuel situation and a number of competing local events—we still raised an impressive $1,307.00 for the Shed. This year also saw a major improvement in product quality overseen by Craig (thanks to some serious “research†and expert input), with overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees and taste testers. As for Chef Craig, like many renowned chefs, he remains tight-lipped about the finer details—guarding his ingredients, techniques, and perhaps a few inherited secrets to preserve that touch of mystery. Sadly, no further disclosures are forthcoming! Your contribution plays a vital role in maintaining a strong and secure funding base, helping us continue to address our building needs. Just as importantly, volunteering at events like this strengthens our ties within the community and builds valuable goodwill and support. Well done to everyone involved—a terrific effort all round.
Shed Automated External Defibrillator (Aed)
Our AED has been removed from service due to battery failure. We are currently exploring funding options (including support from the Bright Community Bank) to repair or replace the unit. This is a priority safety item, and we will provide updates as soon as possible.
Get Involved – Committee & Support Roles
We are also looking to strengthen our Committee and support roles, including:
Assistant Treasurer General Committee support Members with specific skills or interests If you’re keen to contribute, we’d love to hear from you and a bit about yourself to ensure you’re a good fit for the Committee.
A Little Wisdom Perhaps……….
“Enjoy life. Have fun. Be kind. Have worth. Have friends. Be honest. Laugh. Die with dignity. Make the most of it. It’s all we’ve got.†– Ricky Gervais Embrace Mortality: Realising you won't live forever makes life more magical, not sad. Live in the Moment: Focus on having fun, being kind, and making friends. No Regrets: Take chances and live your life your own way. Appreciate the Luck: Recognize how incredibly lucky you are to exist at all.
Until next time, Bruce Pres.