Half Moon Lake Men’s Shed was established in 2017 by Cairde Loch na Leathghealaí – “Friends of Half Moon Lake”. Currently the shed has 10 active members aging from 35 to 65, ranging from a variety of backgrounds including skilled tradesmen to mechanics.

The shed has a varied schedule of activities such as wood working, joinery, beekeeping and candle making.

Shed member Michael McCorry believes the shed is unique in the way the men use old-style hand tools in their woodworking to get a better feel of the wood.

Half Moon Lake Men’s Shed also has a workshop for woodworking and the members received training in the various machines.

The shed has numerous projects currently in progress, one being making lanterns for Halloween.

They are also constructing benches for local schools and nurseries, and use pallets to construct some of these.

They built some willow structures in the local park, as well as trail markers so visitors can track how far they have walked/ran in the park.

The shed has planted flowers in local woodland and started some leather work also.

In the future, the shed hopes to organise photography classes for members.

Half Moon Lake Men’s Shed has also hosted some visits to their shed from other men’s sheds in the area, who come to learn wood working skills.

Michael believes that the social aspect of the shed is of utmost importance, and that new members are always welcome to relax with a cup of tea and a chat.

He also feels that the shed provides a peaceful atmosphere for members to work in at its current location at Suffolk Street, Belfast.

Anyone interested in joining Half Moon Lake Men’s Shed is asked to contact Michael McCorry on 0044-78 1486 0078, or call down to the shed on Suffolk Street between 9.30am and 4pm on Thursdays.

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