Toying with a new project

Taylors Hill Mens Shed. The Mens Shed has been making toys for children. Pictured is Joseph Camilleri. Picture Shawn Smits.

Youngsters living in foster care will receive a handmade gift thanks to Taylors Hill “sheddies”.

Members of Taylors Hill Men’s Shed have been hard at work creating handcrafted, wooden toys for babies, children and young people as part of a partnership between Melton council and Salvation Army Westcare.

The toys, which include trains, push-along carts, mini furniture and pull-along animals, will be delivered to children in foster care homes across Melbourne’s western suburbs.

Sheddies are also working on doll houses and mini wooden kitchens, which will be ready for delivery in coming weeks.

Melton mayor Sophie Ramsey said it was a joy to support a project that brought smiles to so many faces. “Initiatives like this aren’t only important to the children receiving these beautiful toys, but also to the members of our Men’s Shed who relish the opportunity to give something back to their community,” Cr Ramsey said.

“This partnership has given our members a real sense of purpose, and they’re thrilled to know that their gifts are going to children and young people who will cherish and enjoy them.”

Westcare Chaplain Robert Champion thanked the council and members of the Taylors Hill Men’s Shed for their generosity.

Details: www.melton.vic.gov.au/mensshed