The Narrabri Men’s Shed has been forced to cease indoor operations due to COVID restrictions.
However, its members were able to gather off-site for a lunch on Thursday, July 22.
The BYO-style meeting took place outside, alongside the west lake, under the warm sun.
The occasion was a bittersweet celebration, with the group farewelling one of the club’s members.
John Westendorp, an emeritus minister of the Christian Reformed Churches of Australia, is a valued member of the Narrabri Men’s Shed but will soon be moving away from the local district.
“He’s been a great asset to our group, and we wish him all the best,” president Peter Hammond said while presenting Mr Westendorp with a farewell card.
“John has always approached the Men’s Shed with diligence and intelligence, and you never hear him complain.”
The lunch was primarily to celebrate Mr Westendorp’s commitment to the group, with a farewell cake shared by those present.
However, it was also an opportunity for Angus Gourley – grandson of the late Robin Gourley – to present the group with a donation.
Mr Gourley has gotten to know the local members through his HSC thesis project, which studied the local Men’s Shed.
“The aim of my study was to reduce the disconnect between local retirees, especially farmers,” Angus said.
“By creating awareness locally, we can get the word out to more retired men about this group.”
By building and selling off firepits, Angus was able to raise $1000 for the club.
“I built them through my year 12 design and technology class,” he said.
Mr Gourley presented the members with a cheque on Thursday.
The group were very thankful for the generous donation and said it’ll be going towards an air-conditioning unit for the Narrabri Men’s Shed.
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