Allan McGrath and Peter Davidson.
You may know Allan McGrath as ex-Mayor of Yass Shire Council or for his many other endeavours around town, but now you can know him also as the newest life member, foundation member and former patron of Yass Men’s Shed.
Allan was not in the know prior to when President Peter Davidson wound up to the presentation moment and Allan said it felt wonderful.
“It was a real surprise and a great thrill actually. My head was like a blank wall when they said I was going to get it. I was just there for morning tea. I hadn’t been able to get across to the Men’s Shed as often as I liked to because I was too busy being Mayor.
“Having handed over the chain of office I seized the opportunity to pop over and have morning tea and it happened to coincide that they invited Jasmin Jones along as well to ask her if she would take on the role of shed patron and shortly afterwards, they announced that they were giving me life membership, which was a real thrill.
“It plays a critical role in serving the needs, particularly of retired men. Quite often men retire and they play sport for a while and maybe take a couple of trips with their wife and family and really a lot end up as a loose end. A Men’s Shed provides companionship and an outing for them. It also provides a place to learn new skills and support for others.
“They get to do minor jobs, repairs, build stuff. There’s lots of opportunities, particularly at the Yass Valley shed, it’s extremely well equipped and has been established since 2008 I think.
“It plays an important role for the community.
“I’ve had wives tell me it has saved marriages and I’ve had men tell me it has prolonged their lives.”
Mr McGrath can add yet another accolade to his distinguished life.
-Jack Murray