They have until December 11 to vacate their current premises, and Bruce Carle, Grafton U3A Men’s Shed Coordinator, has revealed a public appeal for assistance has received “a fantastic response” from the local community.

Established in November 2005, the Grafton U3A Men’s Shed provides a safe, interactive, social, and healing environment for its members with a key focus on mental health and wellness, and it has had a positive impact on the lives of many others who have fought their own inner demons and endured difficult personal struggles through the years.

The group is actively seeking a new area within Grafton between 550m2 and 600m2 to relocate to and are open to building on land while exploring options to secure funding.

While the Grafton U3A Men’s Shed have received many suggestions and phone calls from businesses in regard to using their properties or land, and they have also been in discussions with Grafton Ngerrie Local Aboriginal Land Council (LALC) in regard to using vacant space at the old Grafton Gaol, Mr Carle said unfortunately, they cannot afford commercial rates as they are a community shed but are appreciative of the offers being made to them.

Mr Carle also confirmed they are currently in discussion with the new CEO of Caringa Australia Leon Ankersmit regarding new rooms and shed space to operate within.

Members of the Grafton U3A Men’s Shed have been working tirelessly over the past three weeks in preparation for their December 11 deadline and have been busy moving and placing items into storage until a new premises is settled upon.

Anyone who may be able to assist the Grafton U3A Men’s Shed is encouraged to contact Mr Carle on 0409 225 536.

The Clarence Valley Independent will continue to keep our readers informed as further updates become available.