Welcome
It's good to be back with you via our BUMS Drum newsletter. I hope you enjoyed the last one and were able to obtain helpful information about your Shed going forward.
Remember, we are currently in an organisational review phase where we are attempting to comprehensively evaluate structure, processes, and culture to identify areas for improvement and ensure alignment with our strategic goals. It involves analysing various aspects like structure, systems, people, and finances to understand how well we are travelling and to identify opportunities for increased efficiency, effectiveness, and member engagement.
Always keep in mind that your Committee of Management is willing to listen to member's opinions and incorporate them in any changes where possible in accordance with AMSA/VMSA Rules.
Committee Of Management (Com)
Since our last missive, there have been some changes to COM. Waseem Niazi, Kevin Hancock and Brian Xerri have resigned for personal/welfare reasons. Simon Dennis has generously decided to come on board and will take up the now combined roles of Membership and Induction.
I am keen to encourage others to become effective committee members – with a blend of interpersonal, analytical, and organizational skills. In essence, we need good communicators, active listeners, and collaborators, while also demonstrating critical thinking, strategic planning, and the ability to work within a team. Additionally, commitment to the organization, ethical conduct, and the ability to adapt to change are crucial. Please consider volunteering for service, as you will find that we are all on the same journey to improve our treasured Shed. Of utmost urgency we are seeking a new Treasurer to join the BUMS COM.
If you, or someone you know, has the enthusiasm, diligence, and capacity to take on this role, we'd love to hear from you.
Training and support will be available to ensure a smooth transition.
- President: Bruce Nordeck
- Vice President: Tony Strachan
- Secretary: Jessica Short
- Treasurer: Seeking
- Committee Members: Milton Miller, Simon Dennis
I take this opportunity to thank former COM Members Waseem Niazi, Kevin Hancock and Brian Xerri for their past service.
Support Roles
COM has updated our various operational and support roles to maintain the smooth functioning and success of the Shed.
The appointments are:
- Membership/Induction Officer – Simon Dennis
- Health & Wellbeing Officer – Tony Strachan
- Grants – Jess Short & Bruce Nordeck
- Communication – Jess Short (temporary)
- Newsletter/Bulletin – Bruce Nordeck & Jess Short
- Information Technology – Seeking specialist input
- Insurance – Kevin Hancock
- Cleaning Roster Manager – Milton Miller
Our Building
We are in the process of obtaining quotes from local contractors to carry out the design and construction required to bring the BUMS Shed back up to compliant standard. More details to follow when we have them.
Health & Wellbeing
Here's a dispatch from Tony Strachan:
"G'day fellow Bums,
As Pres. Bruce has explained previously, I have taken on the welfare and wellness role on our Committee of Management.
In a nutshell, that means any problems our valued Bums may have, both within the Shed and without, I and the COM stand ready to assist to the best of our ability.
I certainly can't wave magic wands and make all the crap and hurt that we all have experienced from time to time in our lives suddenly disappear, but I will certainly lend a sympathetic ear and as they say, "A problem shared is a problem halved".
Of course, to carry out this role I do need the cooperation of all members. Please mates, if you suspect one of us isn't travelling too well, don't hesitate to call me on via the shed, or if you prefer to put it into print; the shed office
After all, we are in this together; this is the foundation of the Men's Shed Movement.
There is a list of items/events the COM would dearly love to try out for our members over the next few months. You will be informed as to the "What's and the When's".
Cheers
Tony Strachan"
Communication
The BUMS Member's Only Facebook group is up and running and starting to be utilised exclusively by current financial members of the Bright United Men's Shed. It is designed to strengthen connection, improve communication, and foster a supportive and positive online space for all Shed members. We currently have 23 members signed up.
You don't have to join the page as all "must know" information will still be communicated by e-mail to you, but we intend to use this Facebook group to enhance the Member communications experience. We encourage you to join and participate. To join: https://fb.me/g/5FGmDT3Uy/zMulDPNQ You will be asked two questions:
1. Are you a paid up BUMS member (which means for 2025/26) 2. Do you agree uphold the rules of the group.
Once your request to join the page has been approved, you will be notified via a notification in Facebook and you will be able to see everything posted to the group, post something yourself (where everyone in the group can see it) or if you wish, send a private message to another member via Facebook Messenger.
Bruce Nordeck and Jess Short currently administer and moderate the page. We are looking for persons to help out with this task. If you are interested please contact Bruce or Jess. So, please join the group and make use of this handy new communication tool.
News From The Shed Floor
We are currently organising a Test and Tagging (T&T) process for the Shed. This covers all electrical appliances with a cord and plug that are above 50V, portable and plug-in appliances, extension leads and power boards, and portable RCDs. AMSA has advised us that T&T is NOT a legislative requirement for sheds like ours as we are a volunteer group. Having said that, AMSA recommends that T&T intervals should be based on the risk level of the operating environment, say each twelve months.
We are currently waiting on an electrician to install a number of fixed power points around the shed to eliminate extension cords and power boards, thus making our environment safer, and reducing our T&T costs.
We have also sorted through numerous corded tools and where there are duplicates or more of the same tool we have taken them out of service. Again, this will further reduce T&T costs, and has the added bonus of decluttering the workshop.
Good news. We have a new a new Community Project. Making Spirits Bright (aka The Bright Xmas Shop) has approached us to potentially construct 50 timber "Bow Racks" for them. Once confirmed, we will seek help from Members to assist with the project. Please consider volunteering.
Rules And Documentation
Rules are vital for a functioning group such as ours, as they provide order, predictability, and fairness, promoting safety and well-being for all. They establish a framework for behaviour, prevent confusion, and ensure that individuals are treated with respect. Without rules, it would be difficult for people to live and work together harmoniously.
As part of our ongoing commitment to safety, community connection, and the values that define BUMS, your COM continues to review and update key policies. These updates aim to ensure a safer working environment, support shared learning, and maintain the welcoming and respectful culture we all value.
The latest of these is the new access hours for the Shed will came into effect from Tuesday, 1 July 2025. These changes aim to enhance safety, encourage social interaction, and align with national standards outlined in the Australian Men's Shed Health & Safety Manual.
This is a trial for 12 months.
New Operating Hours for Medium Risk Activities
The shed will be open for medium risk activities during designated sessions. While members of the Floor Management Team (FMT) may be present during these times, members must not rely on this. All members undertaking medium risk activities must be "shoulder to shoulder" with at least one other inducted member at all times.
Use of the Shed for medium risk activities outside these hours requires prior approval from the COM and the presence of another inducted member.
Medium Risk Activities (equipment/tasks classified medium risk): Vehicle Lift (currently unavailable), Drop Saw, Table Saw, CNC Router, Planer, Band Saws, Table Router, Thicknesser, Metal Lathe, Milling Machine, Pedestal Grinders, Wood Lathes, Welders, Plasma Cutter, Fibre Cutoff Saw, Oxy-Acetylene Equipment, Circular Saws, Chainsaws, Disc Grinders, Ladders over 1 metre high, Cordless / Battery tools.
Low Risk Activities
Members may continue to access the shed alone for low risk activities, at any time.
However, under no circumstances should medium risk activities be undertaken outside the designated hours or when alone. Doing so is a breach of policy and may result in disciplinary action, including suspension or termination of membership.
These changes reflect our shared responsibility to keep the Shed safe and welcoming for all. Thank you for your cooperation and support as we implement this important policy.
If you are unsure whether your activity is considered low or medium risk, or have any questions about this update, please contact the COM.
Men'S Health Workshop
Once again the Myrtleford Men's Shed is sponsoring Life! Men's Health Workshops on 3, 10 & 17 June, and we are invited to take part. The workshops are presented by Amanda Baxter of Yarrawonga Physiotherapy & Pilates, and the program goal is to help reduce risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke. These chronic diseases share many of the same risk factors so improving diet, increasing physical activity and losing some weight all help to reduce that risk. Our group consists of around ten and feedback has been positive and optimistic.
An added bonus of participating in the workshops is that the Myrtleford Shed donated half a dozen boxes of high quality books to us for our annual BUMS Book Fair.
Until next time,
Bruce Pres.
Remember, Happiness is a choice. Everything else is a matter of Perspective. Also, Teamwork makes the Dream Work.
Bright United Men's Shed committee@bumsinc.com.au