The Kenmore Community Centre, located at the intersection of Brookfield Road and Branton Street in Kenmore Hills, is set to undergo a $1.6 million redevelopment to enhance its facilities for three key tenant organizations: the Bridge Club, e-Waste Connection, and the Men’s Shed.
Read: Local Groups To Provide Inputs for Kenmore Community Centre Redevelopment on Brookfield Rd
The ambitious project reflects a commitment to improving accessibility and fostering community engagement. Located at the intersection of Brookfield Road and Branton Street in Kenmore Hills, the project represents a substantial investment in local community spaces.
The project has reached a significant milestone with the appointment of a building contractor, aiming to commence construction in January 2025 and complete by late June 2025.
A Spotlight on Inclusion: Kenmore Men’s Shed
At the heart of these renovations lies a celebration of mateship and inclusion, exemplified by the Men’s Shed. Known for its proactive approach to accessibility, the Shed is already home to the “Blue Shed,” a space designed to accommodate members with disabilities.
“We raised the worktable by about six inches so that the guys who use wheelchairs can fit under it and use the table comfortably as a workbench,” Blue Shed supervisor Warren Cameron explained.
“During the summer months if one of the blokes became overheated, he would have to leave, that wasn’t fair to him. So, at the Blue Shed we installed retractable awnings to give extra space and protection from the sun.”
This ethos of inclusion will be bolstered by the upcoming renovations, which include a new dust extraction system and an upgraded kitchenette. These enhancements will ensure the Shed continues to provide a safe, accessible, and welcoming space for all its members.
Tailored Improvements for Each Tenant
Bridge Club: Expanded and Enhanced Facilities
The Bridge Club stands to benefit significantly from the redevelopment. Plans include an expansive playing space capable of accommodating 14 playing tables – a notable increase from their current capacity. Additional improvements include a new kitchen, an ambulant toilet, and a covered outdoor seating area that will provide members with enhanced comfort and functionality.
e-Waste Connection: Operational Expansion
For e-Waste Connection, the project includes the acquisition and renovation of an adjacent building. This expansion will provide much-needed additional office and storage space, complemented by a new ambulant toilet. The upgrade will support the organisation’s continued growth and operational efficiency.
Men’s Shed: Technical and Practical Upgrades
The Men’s Shed will receive targeted improvements focusing on both technical capabilities and practical amenities. A new dust extraction system will be installed, addressing potential health and safety concerns, while the kitchenette will undergo a comprehensive upgrade to improve functionality.
Communal Space Development
A central building between the Men’s Shed and Bridge Club will be completely rebuilt, introducing several new collaborative spaces. These include:
– A communal meeting space
– A dedicated card dealing room
– A designated area for the Men’s Shed tech hub
– Improved accessible facilities, including a PWD toilet and two ambulant toilets
Read: Award Nomination for Local Recycling Scheme by Kenmore Rotary
Community Impact: Projects That Make a Difference
Beyond physical improvements, the Shed is a hive of activity, contributing to the broader Brisbane West community through meaningful projects. Members create memory boxes and keepsakes for organizations like Precious Wings, which supports families who have experienced the loss of a child.
Longtime member Syd has been instrumental in crafting these keepsakes, sanding and engraving thousands of wooden love hearts to bring comfort to grieving families.
“When the hearts come out of the machine, they get sanded three times very lightly, and that’s something that Syd does,” said Warren. This work, combined with a strong sense of camaraderie, exemplifies the Shed’s impact on individual members and the wider community.
Cr Greg Adermann has confirmed that the project is within budget, and detailed design plans will be shared with the community soon. The renovations will not only modernise the facilities but also expand opportunities for community projects, creating a hub where inclusivity thrives.
Patrick, an 87-year-old Shed member and advocate for accessibility, reflects on the importance of the renovations. “Social connection – it’s essential. Everyone’s got something to contribute. The Men’s Shed makes sure no one is left out.”
Building a Stronger, Inclusive Community
With construction set to begin in January, the Kenmore Community Centre is on track to become a shining example of accessibility and community engagement. The integration of improved facilities, accessible spaces, and inclusive programs will ensure that every member of the community has a place to belong.
Coinciding with the International Day of People on 3 December, the Kenmore Men’s Shed and the Community Centre exemplify what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared commitment to inclusion and mateship.
Published 26-November-2024