Doonbeg Men’s Shed was founded in October 2017 and is coming into its third year of operation. The shed is based in the former Baltard National School. Much discussion had been going on about setting up a shed in the area and at the same time when the location came about as the school was being considered for sale, it almost seemed like fate. It was considered the “ideal location for a Men’s Shed” according to shed secretary John Smith.

It was discussed with the parish priest and word was put out to see if there was enough interest in setting one up. The shed now has over 40 members and hosts a variety of activities for its members including their upcoming day trip to Connemara, wood-turning projects and creating a 2020 calendar of Doonbeg.

Doonbeg Men's Shed members on a recent outing.

The members come from a wide variety of backgrounds from retired teachers to farmers and carpenters and ages range from mid-50s to 88 years young. The shed is very social with members attending on Tuesdays to play cards, learn a new skill, work in the workshop or even just to have a chat and enjoy a homemade scone with a cup of coffee.

“Everyone has a profile with their interests, this is so that they can share their interest with others,” reveals shed member Pat Aherne. Members have a passion for the shed, feeling it’s like a big family and an open space to be social and share their problems.

The members feel lucky to have been able to get the premises, which has two big rooms, one for recreation and one for the workshop. Members are actively involved in the local community by donating benches to the local graveyards, helping out with Tidy Towns and they hope to create a crib and figures for a nativity scene. In the coming weeks they plan to meet on Thursdays to form a choir.

The shed members meet every Tuesday from 10am-1.30pm at Baltard National School, Doonbeg and welcome new members. To find out more contact John Smith on 087-654 7568 or call down during opening hours.