Kenmore and Bellbowrie Moggill Shed West founder Graham Barnard was named the inaugural Shedder of the Year at the National Shed Awards, but his work hasn’t stopped there. Months after receiving the recognition, he remains deeply involved in ensuring that Brisbane’s western suburbs have thriving Men’s Sheds that provide support, skills, and camaraderie.
For nearly two decades, Mr Barnard has played a central role in the Men’s Shed movement, creating spaces for men to connect, learn new skills, and support each other. His efforts led to the founding of Shed West Community Men’s Shed in Kenmore, a facility that has grown into a thriving hub for local men, as well as the establishment of the Bellbowrie Moggill Community Men’s Shed, which continues to grow.
Recognising his dedication, Mr Barnard was awarded Australia’s first Shedder of the Year at the National Shed Awards. The new category was introduced due to overwhelming support from men’s sheds nationwide, with Mr Barnard selected from a pool of 50,000 members for his contributions to Kenmore and the wider Brisbane community. But for Mr Barnard, the real reward isn’t the title—it’s the impact that these sheds have on their members and the wider community.
Building on a Legacy of Connection and Support
Mr Barnard’s involvement began when he joined discussions at the local RSL branch about establishing a men’s shed in Kenmore. By 2007, he was instrumental in securing a site and funding, leading to the official opening of Shed West in 2010. The shed quickly became a centre for woodworking, metalworking, computing, leatherwork, and community support activities.
Shed West also provides a space for social connection, offering daily morning teas and guest speaker sessions at the BCC Library. Members regularly gather for discussions on various topics, reinforcing the shed’s role as a support network.
During the 2011 Queensland floods, Kenmore and surrounding suburbs faced significant challenges. Mr Barnard and Shed West members played an active role in assisting residents with clean-up efforts, demonstrating the shed’s importance in times of crisis.
Today, while some changes have taken place, the legacy of these sheds continues to grow. The Bellbowrie Moggill Shed remains a thriving community hub, and Mr Barnard continues to be involved in mentoring new members, strengthening community ties, and advocating for resources to ensure the sheds’ long-term success.
Expanding the Men’s Shed Movement Beyond Kenmore
As Shed West’s membership grew, Mr Barnard recognised the need for additional facilities in Brisbane’s western suburbs. With support from the Lions Club, he helped secure temporary premises for a new shed in Bellbowrie in 2012, before successfully negotiating a long-term lease. By 2018, the Bellbowrie Moggill Community Men’s Shed was officially incorporated and continues to thrive.
Now, the Kenmore Community Centre—home to Kenmore’s Men’s Shed—is set for a major redevelopment. Under a $1.6 million plan led by the local council, the Men’s Shed will receive key upgrades, including a new dust extraction system and a refurbished kitchenette. The revamped community space will also feature a new communal meeting area, a tech hub, and additional amenities, ensuring that shed members have an improved and modernized environment.
With construction set to begin in early 2025, Mr Barnard and his fellow shed members are looking forward to these enhancements, which will provide even better facilities for woodworking, repairs, and social activities. These upgrades highlight the continued investment in the Men’s Shed movement and its importance to the local community.
A Lifelong Commitment to Shed West and Community
Mr. Barnard has worked tirelessly to ensure both sheds’ long-term success, securing vital funding and forming partnerships with local, state, and federal representatives, as well as Lions, Rotary, and the RSL. His leadership has helped maintain strong and financially stable men’s sheds.
Shed West and the Bellbowrie Moggill Shed offer a wide range of activities, including woodworking, toy making, vehicle restoration, computing, and community repair projects. Members also take part in monthly BBQs, excursions, and card games, creating a welcoming environment for all.
His efforts go beyond administration and funding—he actively checks in on members facing health challenges, providing support and ensuring they stay connected to their shed communities. The strong sense of mateship that defines these sheds is a direct result of his leadership.
A Well-Deserved Honour for a Kenmore Leader
Receiving the award was unexpected recognition for Mr. Barnard, who has always been focused on giving back to the community. His contributions to establishing and growing men’s sheds in Kenmore, Bellbowrie, and Moggill have made a lasting impact.
But for Mr Barnard, it’s not about past achievements—it’s about the future. With new infrastructure improvements on the horizon and a growing membership, he remains committed to ensuring that men in Brisbane’s western suburbs continue to have a place to connect, contribute, and thrive.
Published 5-Feb-2025
