Chairman of the steering committee, Andrew Whale said it was great to see the project finally coming together.

“It’s been a long time, but it looks like the whole thing will soon become a reality.

“We are hoping it will be finished early next year.

“So far we have raised $60,000 and in addition ha ve received commitments for in-kind donations.”

Mr Whale said the shed would fill a huge void for many men suffering isolation, depression and boredom.

“Many people coming off the land and moving to town want something to do.

“When completed, the shed will be equipped with woodworking and metalworking facilities and will also provide an oasis for men to just hang out and have a yarn.

“What they do when they are here is limited only by their imagination,” he said.

Co-chair of the steering committee Eamonn Corven showed plans of the proposed building to a group of 20 interested men.

“There will be a large lecture hall which can double as a venue for U3A.

“The exterior will be tin and the whole building will be passive solar with a north facing verandah.

“It was designed by Railene Geddes of Sunrai Designs,” he said.

Mr Corven said the building will be 20m x 30m and with access just off the Cassilis Road at the exhibitors entrance, it will be in an ideal position for loading and unloading materials.

He said the Mudgee community had been incredibly generous in assisting with the fundraising for construction of the shed.

“In addition TAFE has offered in-kind support with the fit-out.

Steve Garland of AREC said rent on the property would be ‘peppercorn’ and he supported the idea of the men’s shed to help promote an important issue.

“AREC is a community based organisation and this is a great community project,” he said.